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AtlantaTom
133
Mar 14, 2018
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I would definitely consider the TWSBI Eco fountain pen. They are reliable performers, feature an integrated piston filler, and are decently made for the $$. They have a wider section than the Pilot Metropolitan, and are also available as a "ECO-T" model which has the tripod grip section like the Lamy if desired. I own 3 TWSBI - and while the material is "slightly" less luxe feeling on an ECO than, say, a VAC 700R, it feels better than the Wing Sung pens I also have. Plus, better after-sale support if you buy from a retailer in your country (i.e., Goulet Pens in the US). ECO can be had for around $30. I own two, both in "stub" nibs, that I use mostly for calligraphy. My preference is for the Non-T ECO but then I have good "pen discipline" and don't roll them around. If you're prone to rolling the pen in your fingers,the ECO-T will help stabilize them in a proper tripod grip.
Main thing to consider is nib size and type. An ECO in EF (extra-fine) is about the same line/width as a Pilot Metropolitan F. However, in my hand, the ECO's EF nib (a German-sourced unit, from JoWo I think) is smoother and a better performer.
For $50, you can consider upgrading to a TWSBI 580. It's the "upgrade" version of the ECO, thought the ECO came later than the 5xx series. The 580 adds a swapable nib unit, metal fittings, and a faceted barrel for visual appeal/reduced rolling. It's not postable like the ECO is, so that may be a consideration.
At $70 is the VAC 700R series, which is the "ultimate" pen in their catalog. This features a VAC fill system, and even has a dedicated inkwell for use with it. However, I would avoid the 700R until you are more comfortable with filling systems as it's a bit more fiddly (you need to "unlock" the pen every time you use it more than a page or two).
Mar 14, 2018
Ignio
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Mar 14, 2018
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AtlantaTomThanks for the input! I actually just received my ECO yesterday, though I haven't had much time to do more than fill it and scribble a few lines yet. I'm pretty sure I ordered the normal ECO, but there are 3 ridges right at the end of the grip that fit right with how I currently grip the pen and stabilize my grip. I'm also not sure what you mean by the 580 having a "swapable nib unit", as the ECO's nib and feed seem to me to be removable, even if I haven't tried yet... Regardless, I feel like the ECO will keep me satisfied for quite some time. I'll probably experiment with inks a lot more before looking at a different pen.
Mar 14, 2018
AtlantaTom
133
Mar 14, 2018
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IgnioThe one you got Is an ECO-T (T for Tripod). The nib is swappable on the ECO but it’s friction fit and you have to be careful or you can crack the feed. The 580 unit is swappable because you can unscrew the feed and nib together as a unit.
enjoy the Eco!
Mar 14, 2018
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