Fountain Pen Discussion

Good morning, everyone! Is anyone else here still actually using fountain pens? It feels like around Washington, D.C., you can barely find any ink unless it's just some Pelikan 4001. Am I going to have to start ordering all my ink online? What has your experience been like?

I used to be a dedicated fountain pen user for quite some time—up until just a few years back, actually—but lately, my handwriting has been shrinking more and more, and frankly, I just can't be bothered with the constant upkeep required to keep a fountain pen in peak working order. It’s a hassle. That said, I’ll probably find my way back to them eventually when the mood strikes, because let's be honest: there is simply no other writing instrument that offers the sheer, unparalleled comfort of a good fountain pen.

I was wondering—does anyone know where I can pick up a decent fountain pen or some high-quality ballpoints, maybe something like a Parker or whatever?

in the Washington Post

There’s a Montblanc boutique right on Main Street in Washington, D.C.

Don't go overhyping the Monti; even Hitler used to write like that. If you just need something solid for office work, grab a Pelikan M200—it’s great, even if it costs a bit more. But honestly, if you aren't looking for luxury, a stainless steel Parker Vector does the job just fine enough.

I realize this thread is pretty outdated, but I’ll say it anyway. Here in the States, you can pick up ink both in bottles and in cartridges. Almost every major office supply store or big-box retailer carries cartridges, and the better ones usually stock bottled ink too. I know at least two places around here that carry the bottled stuff. The selection isn't exactly massive, though I suppose I'm not particularly picky myself. I think they carry things like Pelikan Brilliant Black or Parker Quink, among others. Basically, just check a list of stationery shops or office supply stores near you and give them a call until you get a satisfactory answer.

I haven’t actually picked up a fountain pen in over a decade... though, if I’m being perfectly honest, there is a certain void left behind that I find myself missing quite frequently. Should my finances permit even the slightest indulgence, I would certainly be heading straight to a shop to acquire a new one immediately.