2022 Jinhao x159 Unboxing and Review vs Montblanc 149

[@davidward5225]

Just got my first Jinhao x159 and it won’t be the last. My collection consists mainly of 14-18kt gold nibs. But this has to be the best stainless nib I’ve ever written with. Thanks for helping me make this choice.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Very nice!

[@Innieminnie]

Doug, I’m 25 years old and I’m working on building my career. I watch your videos and I hope I have a fulfilling post retirement “career” like you do with fountain pens, guitars, and KZbin. Cheers!

[@InkquiringMinds]

Good luck to you SJ! And hard work and focus on your goals well get you far!

[@WeekendWarrior1]

Doug, Just wanna report that I got the Jinhao today! It didn't get writing immediately, but when it did it was a beauty! It doesn't feel cheap too! The nib is the difference maker versus a Montblanc, I agree. Thanks for the great content.

[@marioalbertoramos5431]

Thanks!

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thank YOU so much Mario! I only just found out how to filter comments that have given "Super Thanks" and wanted you to know how much I appreciate your support!

[@unknowncrash1]

The long awaited review!!!

[@aidesbnlee5422]

Thank you so much for this review. Being a student I don’t have enough money to buy my dream Montblanc pen. Jinhao is also a good choice❤

[@joefaracevideos]

While I didn't think it was possible Doug, these reviews keep getting better and better. Thanks so much. PS, I think I'm going to order one of these...

[@InkquiringMinds]

Glad to help!

[@alexandrevaliquette3883]

11:06 I really like that part. It show how close they are. Sure, with eyes open and a magnifier you can tell differences. I think fountain pen, even the cheap ones, are a head turner. It's a sign of refinement. And under 5$ US, you get a very similar experience to the 1000$ counterpart that include the iconic logo. I just can't wait to get my x159 Black and gold plated ordered few weeks ago! 2024 price on Aliexpress: 6.48$ cdn (4.78$ us) shipping to Canada included.

[@Sonicman415]

Cooooool review. Thank you! That Mont Blanc nib is absolutely stunning. I picked up the Jinhao X159 in black w gold hardware and a two tone nib for my brother. Impressive for a $13 pen on Amazon. I may pick up a cream color one for myself in Jan. I need those grit pads.. way cool

[@nmkjnmnjm]

I got mine this week. Incredible value. This pen writes wonderfully, perfect balance.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Great to hear!

[@victormcarrasco4821]

Thank you big time!! I just made this treatment to my new x159 (blue one) and oh boy... The smoothness with no jumpy fast strokes are on the menu tonight for writing! Greetings from México ✌🏽

[@Richard1855]

G’day from Down Under Doug, your video @ 1:54, I couldn’t help but notice when you said: "if you can save 1200 bucks", you had an extra hint of cheekiness to your usual smile ha! ha! Btw I have already ordered my X159 prior to writing this feedback. Can’t wait for its arrival, takes a bit longer to get to me in Australia compared to you guys in the Northern Hemisphere. Like a lot of pen hobbyists I do own a 159 and reluctantly have not been using it due to its weight. Absolutely love your X159 vs 149 comparison and review of the X159. Us mere mortals would definitely benefit from watching your video, especially the tuning of the nib. Tempted to buy another, to gift it to someone, anyone for that matter. As much as this is your serious review, love the humour you put into it as well. Keep them videos coming and thank you Doug.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thanks, Richard! I said $1200 because that is what my local brick 'n mortar shop charges for a 149 at the moment.

[@Richard1855]

@@InkquiringMinds just received my X159 (two in fact, decided on another as had gifting one in mind). Did the mandatory flushing, inked it and it wrote straight off, albeit had a bit of feedback and bit dry for my liking. Pull out my pen tuning kit and gave it a going over resulting in it being smother. Spread the tynes/tines using a method I learnt watching KZbin(Japanese nib meister that said that his thumb nail is part of his tool kit), by gently pressing the nib on my left thumb nail( I am right handed). This created better ink flow, resulting in it being nice and wet; the way I like it. The X159 is now one of workhorses that goes to work with me. Thank you for indulging me

[@JoshuaAllenDeMoss]

“Semi precious resin” made me lol the first time. Another excellent review. Time to pick up an x159!

[@InkquiringMinds]

LOL!

[@somnathsikdar6657]

I ordered two the other day for 12 Euros, shipping included. I am so full of anticipation for this pen 😄. Thanks for the review!

[@InkquiringMinds]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@nickturner2813]

My X159 should be here in a few days so I've brought my real MB 149 into service again ready to make the comparison.

[@ccahua]

Came for the pen, stayed for mom wisdom. Mom would be proud: great instructional review on affordable pen, nib smoothing, wise quotations (Mom and Confucius), etc. Just telling not teaching ;-)

[@InkquiringMinds]

Right on!

[@amyr.862]

The weight has kept me away from getting a 159 so far. If they start making these in all the crazy colors of the orignal, Jinhao will have a reborn classic on their hands.

[@tomasortiz1606]

Great job. Thoroughly enjoyed this video and the short tutorial on working on nibs. Thank you and keep up the great work.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@charlesbrough6185]

Thanks Doug! Entertaining an informative as always... and mine is on the way!

[@andrewscott9610]

Thank you Jack, and thank you sir for all the time you spend reviewing fountain pens.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Indeed! Thanks, Jack!

[@TalesFromTheScript]

What a splendid, in-depth review. Just ordered two for myself to add to my collection (and compare to my 159s (which I like, but hopefully this improved incarnation is a step (or two) up), and can't wait to get my hands on them, ink them up, and get writing!

[@InkquiringMinds]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@archivist17]

Superb and eye opening review, thhanks, Doug.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thank you kindly!

[@scottdublin4164]

Great video. Like you, I love fountain pens and guitars. The mustache bridge on that Gibson is magnificent!! Thanks for another excellent review...which I'm sure will lead to another purchase!

[@InkquiringMinds]

My Gibson SJ200 Golden Age is one of 75 made and my prized possession. Incredible acoustic guitar.

[@OpusX2010X]

Having recently found your channel, I am enjoying the videos greatly. This looks like a great starter pen for the price. I will be watching this again to take notes on the replacement canister options. Thank you for your insight and wishing you all the best from the States.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Welcome aboard!

[@OpusX2010X]

@@InkquiringMinds Thank you and update. The X159 showed up today after ordering it off Amazon almost two weeks ago. She took some convincing to prime but after advancing the ink into the nib with the provided converter, she writes beautifully. I could not be happier with my purchase and never would have known about this gem without your review. So very much enjoying y our channel and can't wait for the TWSBI GO to arrive. Thanks again!

[@rtcoffee1235]

Looks like Jinhao’s R&D on resins is finally paying off. Many of their old model pens is made out of coated brass, while now they’ve producing pretty high quality acrylic bodies. Wish they’d incorporate the #8 nibs to their duofold clones. That’d really be awesome. ☺️

[@w.j.m.91]

I'm pretty sure the actual Duofold has a nib closer to no. 6. This huge nib would look rather out of place.

[@darylsalazar8244]

I am waiting for mine to arrive. I ordered specifically for the purpose of trying out if I'd be comfortable with MB 149's size. Great video by the way!

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thanks, Daryl!

[@MrAndrew1953]

How do I renew membership

[@InkquiringMinds]

@@MrAndrew1953 Just click here: kzbin.info/door/bT6bph6TcR-6ByiXzU3RYgjoin

[@paulopacheco3944]

I enjoyed this video and I am looking forward to the Sheaffer pen review.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Coming soon!

[@danmagoo]

What a great surprise! I've ordered the micro-mesh you demonstrated, to cut the initial scratchiness, but already I have found that a few minutes of drawing loops and ovals with slight pressure, and of course your "7 strokes," has made a notable difference, and made this pen a real pleasure to use. I draw with my fountain pens, more than writing with them (I'm a leftie and not an under-writer), so I treasure a bit of line variation that doesn't require tricky angle-changes and catching that comes with many flex nibs, and this pen is looking like it might become a favorite go-to choice. The size and feel are especially nice, and I find it actually flexes better than my (non-calligraphy) MB 149s. Looking forward to the Medum and maybe Broad options too. Thanks for the great video as always.

[@danmagoo]

FOLLOW-UP: After getting and using the micro-mesh to smooth the tip as you showed, this pen is really quite amazing, including way more flex than expected. Thanks for the advice and demo. I'm currently enjoying this pen more than the pricier options, and it's great to know that if I somehow get carried away and spring it, or lose it, it's not a tragedy. I've already ordered a back-up x159.

[@barryday680]

I ordered three at 4.39 each and they are beautiful and write so well. I’m impressed. I cant wait until they come out with new colors and nib sizes. I plan to get them. Highly recommend. Huge improvement over the old metal ugly clip 159.

[@connorbnelson]

Kind of tempted to get one just to yank the nib and put it in a Ranga. Some of their bigger pens are compatible with Bock #8 nibs, so I'm curious if this will work. Unfortunately, it looks like that listing at 19:22 is for some cartridges, not the pen itself. Classic AliExpress trickery heh

[@MissMarilynDarling]

This was a GREAT review Thanks Doug :)

[@InkquiringMinds]

My pleasure! Thanks Marilyn!

[@TheOkazakiGuy]

Thanks for the great video, Doug. I have continued to use mine daily since my FB post that you responded to and I am really enjoying it. I hope you're right about this being the beginning of many more with this model. I'd love to get an EF nib; more colors might also be fun.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Glad it was helpful!

[@greyareaRK1]

I paid the same, and a longer wait. Thanks for this.

[@MrGchiasson]

I've watched a few reviews on the X159...and ordered one last night. I'll keep it next to my Sailor 1911. Great video! Thanx!

[@sailcat9]

Thanks for such a fun video! I have two of these bad boys on order. I had previously ordered two pens clearly described as X159 from a vendor on Ali Express but, sadly, that seller "carelessly" shipped two ordinary 159s. **sigh** I then ordered two more X159s, one each from two vendors on eBay whom I know a bit better (just to be safe) and I am again awaiting their delivery. In any case, I get a kick out of these inexpensive knockabout pens and I appreciate your well-reasoned and thoughtful assessment of the X159! So thanks, Doug, for another enjoyable video! Well done!

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thank you so much, sailcat9!

[@edgaraquino2324]

Many thanks for this comprehensive review & comparison...

[@InkquiringMinds]

My pleasure!

[@archivist17]

You're right about the 159 and nib swapping. I was regretting buying one until I put in a stub nib, which makes it shine!

[@Javi_C]

I was always a fine nib type of person, but once I tried a stub, I always go for a stub 100% of the time!

[@InkquiringMinds]

The 159 is great for nib experimentation and it is built like a tank - except for the cap cross-threading issues.

[@davidnygard1817]

I am also waiting for my Jinhao x159’s to arrive. I purchased 2 as soon as I saw them on AliExpress. The other pens I purchased were Jinhao 80 Fiber Blacks with both the silver and black clips. This Lamy 2000 inspired pen is ridiculously good in look, feel and performance. No one has reviewed this pen yet, so it must be new. I cannot wait to see what you think of this. It just might be the best everyday pen I have in the collection.

[@InkquiringMinds]

I’ll have my Jinhao 80 next week.

[@andrewrothman7805]

@@InkquiringMinds with already having 3 Lamy 2000s in my case, I'll pass on the 80 (which doesn't even have a hooded nib).

[@InkquiringMinds]

@@andrewrothman7805 it does not. Interesting to put the Lamy Safari style nib on a L2K style pen though.

[@3X3-n3j]

I don’t know why I am here, I’m not really a pen enthusiast nor have I even watched any videos on pens. However, I am interested in these seemingly exotic pens.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Cool! Welcome!

[@nope8535]

That was me a few months ago. I have 7 fountain pens now. Regrind my own nibs, and buying more pens and ink.

[@lucm6476]

Thanks for the video , i just ordered on this week. My only apprehension is the nib . I guess will see in a couple of weeks.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Hope you like it!

[@edanthony6]

I ordered x159 right after I saw your 100 Mini review. I'm eager to get it, though I'd like a M or B nib. I really hope x159 is popular and soon comes with broader nibs. The heft of the 159 has not bothered me, and I love the grip girthiness and nib swapping, though I love the lighter Jh 9056, too. I have never mis-threaded the cap on Jh159 and will take extra care now; thanks for the hint. With my Jh159, paint chips off the cap and body. Cosmetics matter little to me, though, as long as nib on paper works well. In my opinion, all of a pen exists to serve the nib and its flow, anyhow.

[@InkquiringMinds]

I agree 100%, Ed!

[@kevinblack8365]

Doug, Again, nice review, I had to subscribe. I have the X159 in Wine colour. I'm in dispute (aliexpress and Paypal) with the vendor because was sent a Fine nib when expressly ordered a medium nib. Was told they had no medium so just sent a fine. Great business model. Then wanted me to pay for the medium nib. I know it's bugger all money, it's the principle. Anyway, the Fine nib writes like my Conklin medium (yours is much finer) so I'm more than happy with that. According to the specs EF is 0.4mm (which is what I think you have) F is 0.5mm and M is 0.7mm. I'm very happy with the way the pen performs consistent with your observations and that #8 nib is excellent. BTW, will your mate lend me his Montblanc?

[@InkquiringMinds]

I think Jack wants it back! LOL 😂

[@argilaga]

Thanks for the video! I really like mine, the size is perfect to use it unposted.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Great to hear!

[@gwgtaylor]

I ordered one. I love my MB149 but would also love one with a converter. Integrated pistons are a pain to clean and maintain. I’m fairly certain I will adore this pen but I want it in some fun colours or materials. A deep red would be nice-like the Bordeaux montblancs. And maybe some fun materials like stacked celluloid or that arco stuff or even the acrylics PenBBS use. Tiny Happiness or Galaxy would be nice. Jinhao would get a lot of my money if they did that.

[@InkquiringMinds]

They can have ALL my money for an x159 in burgundy bordeaux or even better GALAXY! OMG!

[@LisaPottinger]

A Galaxy X159. Now that would be SWEET.

[@kmcmichael]

I also have one ordered. I hope someone starts making italic nibs in #8

[@RBartsy]

Update on the X159: have 3 of these resin x159 which were not purchased at the same time through Amazon. I really like size, weight, and nib. Have filled with diff inks for drawing/art pens so get regular use and stored in plastic food storage. BIG PROBLEM: each one has broken at the tip of the lid. The cigar domes have broken off each one. Got first lid replaced and tonight requesting another replacement but one i tried to just super glue … but not too great holding the pocket clip and metal ring under the dome piece then all on top of the 2-part plastic lid/cap pieces!! Argh. Think the pocket clip puts too much torque on the plastic bits arent substantial enough to hold together. Really disappointed but hope they update the manufacture issues! Wanted to let you know because comments on your channel are taken seriously. Let us know if you observe changes. Im posting some pics on Amazon if you wanna see the bits or i can email to you. Thanks

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thanks for sharing your experience, Rebecca! I will keep an eye on the issue.

[@LisaPottinger]

Thanks for another great video, Doug. I’m waiting for my X159 to arrive from China. Can’t wait. I have a Montblanc 146 and it’s the perfect size for my hand so I’m not sure about the larger size pen but looking forward to using a number 8 nib.

[@InkquiringMinds]

The 149 is a BIG pen there is no question. The 146 is probably a sweet spot for most hands.

[@jls3220]

Another excellent assessment of Chinese pens. I thought I wasn’t going to buy any. Because of you and a couple of others. Even though you had to work with yours, this pen does write very smoothly. Thank you always.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thanks, Jorge!

[@david_r_munson]

Just got one of these as a pen I can safely use at work. I teach young kids, and I prefer to use a pen I can let them try out without worrying, so when they show up, the good pens get put away and the cheap ones come out. I've been really pleasantly surprised by this one. Feels good in the hand and writes really well. Factor in the price and it's an absurdly good value.

[@wwbdwwbd]

12:49, Jinhao’s grip section has a smaller diameter than that of the Montblanc.

[@InkquiringMinds]

By 0.3mm!

[@xkrfan]

I also am enjoying my X159 and really appreciate finally having a #8 nib. My issue is that EVERY time I pick up the pen it hard starts (actually doesn't start at all) and I have to starting priming etc. Do you think if I tried grabbing the shoulders of the nib and pulling it open a bit it might help or would that make it worse? Right now the tines seem rather tight but the pen does not write dry. In fact once it gets going it writes great and I haven't even tweaked or polished the nib, like I usually do. This has become the pen most likely to ink my fingers though because the various things I have to do to get it writing and that's not a plus. I actually love the pen but I would like to make it "write first time every time". Great content. Thanks very much.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Flush the nib and feed with some water and a drop of dish soap. Then rinse it with clear water and dry. The dish soap breaks up any oils on the feed and helps ink flow. Rinse the converter too.

[@xkrfan]

@@InkquiringMinds Thanks for your reply. As I always do I flushed it through 4 times or so when I bought it, even using Goulet pen flush, but I can certainly try again. I am using an oddball ink in Levenger Black Raven as its my only Black so not my usual Pilot or Diamine lubricated inks.

[@thesafetytech]

Just saw that new colors (aside from black) are now available for this model. Red & Blue. :)

[@InkquiringMinds]

I’ve just ordered the red!

[@Javi_C]

Thanks Doug!

[@InkquiringMinds]

You are welcome!

[@lbsolecki]

Just got 2 new pens Jinaho and I/m having trouble knowing how to load the cartridge it has a cartridge converter as well but I don't want to break it. I have bought the cartridge refills but can you give me an idea of how to load it? Thank you!

[@InkquiringMinds]

I need to know the model.

[@lbsolecki]

@@InkquiringMinds model 189 and model x750

[@InkquiringMinds]

@@lbsolecki I don't know the Jinhao 189. The x450 takes standard international short cartridges. Most Jinhao pens with #6 size nibs take international cartridges. To "load" a cartridge, press the cartridge into the nozzle of the section firmly until you feel it "click" into place. That click is the steam of the feed breaking the seal on the cartridge to allow the ink to flow.

[@lbsolecki]

@@InkquiringMinds Right but what is the empty cartridge tube with the screw winder? How do I get that off?

[@InkquiringMinds]

@@lbsolecki That is the cartridge converter. Pull firmly and twist as you do. You can use the converter to fill your pen from a bottle rather than having to use cartridges. Just turn the little piston knob until it moves down towards the nib, place the nib of the pen up to the section in the ink, and turn the piston knob back again and it will suck up ink through the nib.

[@thecowfy]

Before the video ended I'd ordered the X159. I have several regular 159's. This cost me $7.50 with free shipping. I've been looking at used 149's for awhile. Any opinion on that kind of move. I see venders for those with very nice feedback.

[@nickturner2813]

Just like you, I hated the ludicrous clip shield so my 159 never sees the light of day now. Had a look on Ali Express and found this new X159, delivered for $4.21. Thanks Doug!

[@InkquiringMinds]

Great price!

[@johnsomers8269]

How do I get micro mesh pads?

[@InkquiringMinds]

Amazon has them. www.amazon.ca/Micro-MESH-Soft-Touch-Sanding/dp/B000H6EC4C/ref=sr_1_3?crid=24LREVWHRKWIJ&keywords=micromesh+polishing+pads&qid=1658011580&sprefix=micromesh+%2Caps%2C107&sr=8-3

[@Shak-MD]

I have 5 of these. I ground 4 of them. 3 turned out perfectly. One [my first ever grind] bit so much. Is there a way yet to get the nib out? I know at the time of this review it was a no.

[@InkquiringMinds]

I haven’t tried yet, but I’m sure it is friction fit.

[@zathrasnotzathras655]

I’ve always thought that shield on the clip was reminiscent of what duke used to do on their pens. But then again Duke and Jinhao are probably the same factory

[@InkquiringMinds]

I think you're right about the same factory.

[@Scouzeboy]

Greetings from Australia. Great hat. Great Video. I have ordered one from China. Keep em coming Doug.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@user-gl5ld9vm7i]

Great playing! Love Clapton. Do you play, or have played any Stevie Ray Vaughn?

[@InkquiringMinds]

OMG SRV is "savant level" playing. I've played his acoustic song "Life by the Drop"

[@trafalgarla]

Looking at ebay for the x159, I also saw Jinhao had a new Jinhao 80 pen made of something similar to makrolon fiber. It resembles the Lamy 2000 except without the hooded nib and at an $8 price.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Mine will be here next week!

[@wolf_ceit_witch]

I had to get it. I have all the original colors in the original 159s.. I am looking forward to getting the x159. I have a Titanium #8 nib that I purchased for another pen, I might have to swap it out. So excited. Thank you for the comparison.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Right on!

[@wolf_ceit_witch]

@@InkquiringMinds Mine just came in. It really is a nice pen and good writer out of the box. Again thank you for the video...

[@obituariopuertorriqueno4283]

It just so happens that I ordered this pen a couple of weeks ago. Motivation? That huge nib. Now, thanks to you, I can't wait for it to be delivered. It takes a while for stuff from China to reach the Caribbean. 🖋️

[@InkquiringMinds]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@luisguillermoperezmejia7907]

Ya tengo mis 3 jinhao x 159. La original 159 seguro estará guardada de ahora en adelante. Excelente relación calidad/precio. Aun con la tapa ensamblada es muy cómoda de usar. Una buena pluma de uso diario. Muy satisfecho.

[@InkquiringMinds]

¡Bien por usted! Excelentes bolígrafos por el dinero.

[@EastLancashireJohn]

Great review Doug. I'd buy one or two. There are none available on Amazon UK as yet. I have the old one with the ugly clip, but it's too heavy to cart around.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thanks, John!

[@origamichik3n]

I did not enjoy the old 159 ("Awful Orange" by the way). It was uncomfortable for my hand. It has been over 3 years since then, so i don't even remember whether it was the girth, the weight or awkward section. But even bigger issue was that the 'ink starvation' would start barely half way through the first A5 page. I tried swapping F nib for M, spreading the tine a bit, but nothing worked. And yes, i also hate that horrible cheap looking 'badge' clip. I am curious to see if X159 rectifies any of the issues that i had. And hopefully, Jinhao comes up with more finishes.

[@InkquiringMinds]

The x159 is head and shoulders above the old 159. The only negative I hav for it is the three turns to uncap.

[@paulmchugh1430]

An update. I got my X159. I managed to get the nib and feed out of the section. Interesting that the Jinhao symbol is on the feed unit, like what they call an Easter Egg. In any case the nib will not separate from the feed, yet. Will continue to work on it. Hey for the price why not?

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thanks for sharing, Paul.

[@BigHenFor]

I hope it gets the same range of finishes as its doorstopper sister. It's fun buy.

[@NemoInYoutube]

I have a P149, when I see jinhao that was absolutely similar but still pleasure what I have is Montblanc P149

[@horaciobuelna7429]

Very good. It is a very classy fountain pen, and light in comparison with the old 159 metal pen. Is there a way to fix the nib when is not centered to the feed ?. One of the pens I got has that issue. Thank you and greetings from Mexico.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Pull it and recenter it.

[@superalbertos550]

Hi Doug my friend, I consider you my pen friend. I bought this pen. I'm amazed as the beauty of its simplicity and the wonder as to how it writes. It cost me $100 pesos, the equivalent of $5 dollars. I inked with Lamy Blue. I'll tell you my experience, I change pens and inks every day in my journal. I´m always looking forward as to the new pen and ink of the day. For the first time, gee, I didn't wanted to change, that comfortable. The Jinhao x159 writes so well, so smoothly and so elegantly. I thought I was not going to like the girth, that was my mind speaking, the actual truth is that I write better with better hand writing, a more refined letter. I Thank you and I wanted you to know. Thanks again. I also bought the Leonardo Supernova, a dream pen.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Congrats on the Leonardo! And the x159 is so inexpensive, you can buy several and ink them with different colours!

[@nickturner2813]

The X159 arrived two days ago and every bit as good as I hoped. Sorted out the slightly dry ink flow with the "seven strokes" method and it's prefect. Doesn't beat my MB 149 in terms of tactility, obviously, but it's a great pen.

[@InkquiringMinds]

I'm glad the seven strokes worked for you Nick!

[@nickturner2813]

@@InkquiringMinds Usually doesn't take that many! Got the tip from you (so to speak)!

[@user-br3sl9go3b]

Asking for advice: I bought an advertised set of two mesh pads (8,000 and 12,000) from a very well-known retailer a while back. I followed your prior directions (and SBREBrown's) on a Jinhao and on a Penbbs Marshmallow. I couldn't really see any difference in the way the nibs performed.

[@InkquiringMinds]

It depends on what you're doing. If you are just taking some feedback out of the nib to make it smoother, the 8000 and 12000 are great for that. To actually change the nib because of baby's bottom, you have to take off a lot more of the hard iridium material and that requires a coarser grit like 1200 to start. Then you have a VERY rough nib and need to polish it in stages - that's why so many steps in grades from rough to smooth.

[@user-br3sl9go3b]

@@InkquiringMinds Thanks a million! I am very much not interested in taking so many steps to get a nib to write OK. I would rather buy a fountain pen that writes well out of the box. I guess I am in a minority. OK.

[@nancymilawski1048]

@@user-br3sl9go3b I don't think you are in the minority, I too expect a pen of any kind or brand to write out of the box. With manufacturing processes refined and optimized there should be a much lower problem rate. The only Jinhaos I like writing with are 100s. (I have 8 different models, including a 159 for size test and comparison. 159 is too big but I might buy an X159 if they come with a medium nib to get a #8 size nib cheap which I don't have. )

[@MrAndrew1953]

It would be worth making a video of that Mont Blanc with the Calligraphy nib just to see how it writes. I’ve only ordered one X159 as I want to see how well it writes.

[@InkquiringMinds]

I'm toying with that possibility. If Jack doesn't call me today about my Sheaffer Tuckaway, I'll review his Montblanc next week.

[@MrAndrew1953]

@@InkquiringMinds I must get around to renewing membership. Tricky when changing new password for Google.

[@InkquiringMinds]

@@MrAndrew1953 No worries Andrew. I’ll still talk to ya!

[@andrewrothman7805]

Just ordered one for $8.00 shipped. I saw on Chris Rapseik's review, that he was able to take the nib and feed out of the collar. Of course, with nothing to replace that nib with, maybe it doesn't make sense (except for cleaning). I do have some 1930s vintage #8 14k nibs I could try, though, assuming the vintage #8 is similarly sized to the Jinhao. Nice video!

[@InkquiringMinds]

I wouldn't take the nib or the collar out. There is no reason to do it as there are so few options for replacement. Bock #8 nibs aren't cheap!

[@HJKelley47]

OK Doug, just ordered one (LOL). Thanks so much for your encouragement. My beautiful light blue A1 arrived yesterday, so I really did not need another pen--for the moment! 🙄 The 146 looks lovely, but when checking my bank account I discovered I had enough there to take care of my monthly needs with enough left over to order the Jinhao X159 (smile). Don't mind tweaking the nib with the micromesh I have in my ink cabinet.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Wonderful, Helen! I think Jinhao have knocked it out of the park with this one just like the Jinhao 100!

[@xerxiusmaximus]

Loved this “side by each” comparison… thank you. Q. I believe in some of your videos, you mention an online site that catalogs swatches of ink… could you/would you again share, herein, that resource? Thank you and please stay safe.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Of course. It is a website developed by Chris Saenz who has a wonderful KZbin channel as well. The site is inkswatch.com/index.html.

[@s10408]

Thank you good sir for blessing us yet with another review. I had gotten the Majohn M800 because of you and i love it except for the nib which i believe will fit a jowo #6 from your comparison video. Guess I'll just have to spend my measly university allowance to get this thick boy.

[@InkquiringMinds]

I'm seeing the x159 for $4US with shipping today on Aliexpress! Incredible.

[@s10408]

@@InkquiringMinds Andddddd i got it, youre the best worst influence on me ever since I started watching your channel

[@paulmchugh1430]

Great review and comparison amongst the three pens. I can't wait for my pen to arrive. It is somewhere in China, floating through Customs. I hope it is not lost in the flotsam and jetsam of their postal service. I am hoping like you that more nib widths become available. Do you know if a Lamy or Parker cartridge will fit?

[@ichirofakename]

I've received a number of orders from China with no problem. Have you lost any in the mail?

[@paulmchugh1430]

@@ichirofakename no. Tracking information shows it has been in Customs Report for a week. Today it has been released.

[@ichirofakename]

@@paulmchugh1430 Patience, my friend.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Paul: No, the Lamy/Parker cartridges will not fit. It is the Jinhao/Hongdian cartridge with the 2.3mm bore.

[@paulmchugh1430]

@@InkquiringMinds I know this is going to sound, well, out there. With so much girth of the pen, wouldn't a wide,r larger converter make sense?

[@keithwhitney7491]

Boy, do I agree with you about the awful shield on the original 159. I bought one years ago, and I have used it once! I did not like a pen that heavy. Other problems I might have had are long gone in the limited memories of an ancient guy. After ChrisRap’s review, I ordered two x159s, one to possibly give away. I also wanted to see the and write with the # 8 nib. By going with the “I-pay shipping model” I was able to buy two for around $12 and paid one $3 shipping fee. It will be fun to check the pen out. Your review just made me even more anxious to do so.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Something to look forward to!

[@bullseye11b]

I’m loving mine. It showed up a few days ago. It’s much better than the old 159 for me. Mine is smooth and writes more like a medium, but I mostly use broads so this is not a problem. Great review as always.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thanks, Donny!

[@melsandock]

Wonderfull guitar - I play a HÖFNER, sun-burst, Archtop, 50mm frame, built in 1965 - Vintage. -- Thank you for your fountain pen tpps! I look for a #8 nip for my Jinhao X159, I prefer M or B nips. But in germany (you give 2 adresses to me) I only find expensive gold nips in #8. Do you have a new and other solution???? Regards form Roland, germany

[@InkquiringMinds]

Many thanks!my first electric guitar was a Horner. There is no cheap solution for a #8 until Jinhao makes them.

[@santiagomerinoacevedo7475]

A great video as usual. I’ve got a 159 and I think it’s an excellent pen. I was wondering wether or not to buy a x159. Now I am willing to order one. Thank you.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Go for it!

[@brightonbabe2139]

Thanks Doug. I wanted to know whether the big pens are too big for me and the Jinhao is a cheap wa to try it out. Always interesting.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Glad to help!

[@stargazer1359]

I had a Kaco I wasn't using so I took the #5 nib and put it on the Jinhao mini. Writes really well, although the pen is small for me, I just really like it.

[@InkquiringMinds]

The #5 Jinhao is pretty much standard #5 size.

[@МистерЭко-ц6я]

Перо этой ручки при нажатии иногда смещается из стороны в сторону. Шатается. Есть некоторые неудобства при письме. С чем это может быть связано и как можно исправить эту проблему. Буду признателен за ответ.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Попробуйте вдавить плечи пера обратно в секцию. Может сидеть не плотно.

[@user-br3sl9go3b]

Definitely a two joe review. I enjoyed every word. I'm not kidding. (I ask again: do you have a photographic memory? How do you remember those old films to insert?) But back to the main point. Several pre-used 149 Montblanc pens with 14c nibs are for sale at around US$520. Seems one could get rather close to that writing experience by sending the x159 with the #8 to a nibmeister for less than 1/2 the price. Not to mention the staggering savings compared with buying a new Montblanc. [Of course, one would not get the snow cap finial worth (?) US$924.53.] What do you think?

[@InkquiringMinds]

I would rather pick up a true MB149 used than try to put a MB nib into a $6 pen! Plus the MB is a piston filler.

[@user-br3sl9go3b]

@@InkquiringMinds OK! Thanks. (I am never going to pay +US$500 for a fountain pen. Whether it is made of lava or metorites, or solid gold. Hahah. Just saying.)

[@levon9]

Waiting for my x159 to arrive. The only downside I see to is are the 3x turns required to uncap it - I use my pens mostly for quick note taking, so that's not really ideal. (Not really sure why they would do this .. ) That shield on the 159 clips was really ugly, so glad they got rid of it. Thank you for the detailed review.

[@InkquiringMinds]

I'm not sure why they'd do it either. I was looking to Chris to answer that from his engineer perspective, but he's stumped too.

[@levon9]

@@InkquiringMinds Thanks for the quick reply. Yes, very puzzling design choice.

[@stefanwood2182]

Ordered another x159, this time with gold trim and a cool looking nib. The red is appealing as well. If they put these in Galaxy Blue or any cracked ice variant, game over. Just take my money!

[@InkquiringMinds]

I've got an x159 in the burgundy red with gold hardware on the way!

[@MrCabimero]

Thanks to you, I pretty much work on all the nibs I get to tune them, with rare exception. Of course , on pens that I can replace the nibs and that are inexpensive. If it cost me some real moolah I send them to a nibmeister if needed. Thanks for all you have taught me.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thank you MrCabimero. That is much appreciated!

[@ryokan9120]

Does anybody know if the X159 is going to replace the 159 or will both versions continue to be manufactured? I seem to be the only person who prefers the heft of the 159 (though I do agree the new clip is a huge improvement) and I'll be very sad if it ends up being discontinued.

[@InkquiringMinds]

My guess is the 159 will be around for a while.

[@ryokan9120]

@@InkquiringMinds I do hope so. Maybe I'll stock up on the old 159's.

[@InkquiringMinds]

They’re very cheap now!

[@mikedavis979]

Could you share where you get the micro grit pads, (micro-mesh did you say?). Thank you! Love your reiviews, keep up the good work! Partly because of your channel, I've gone in a month from owning one fountain pen to owning eight! (I'll send you the bill). Ha!

[@InkquiringMinds]

LOL Thanks, Mike! I got one set of micromesh from Lee Valley Tools and one set on Amazon.

[@richardeng1020]

Nice X159 review. Found the pen writes well. However, the plastic nib housing developed a crack and leaks when writing. Trying the second pen to see if it lasts more than five refills. I never had this problem with the original brass 159.

[@InkquiringMinds]

At the price, it is easy to get another.

[@johnsingh2109]

Hi, where do you get the sanding pads from to sand the nibs?

[@InkquiringMinds]

From Amazon and Lee Valley Tools

[@johnsingh2109]

Thank You @@InkquiringMinds

[@crayons987]

Great review. I actually just recently ordered this model from eBay, $7.98 usd with shipping. Looking forward to getting it, wasn't a huge fan of the metal version and clip that came with it

[@InkquiringMinds]

This is a big improvement.

[@AJKlos]

One of my favorite songs!!

[@wendyholiday2021]

Waiting for mine to arrive.

[@InkquiringMinds]

I hope you enjoy it!

[@maxburchill4478]

I got a x159 with fine nib and it writes much more like a weastern medium. Definitely not 0.4 like yours. Does anyone else have that issue? Or was mine a dud from jinhao?

[@InkquiringMinds]

Typical mass produced inconsistency.

[@ichirofakename]

I have one in the mail. I'm excited to try a #8 nib for $200. Funny, though you (along with everybody else) repeatedly mention how much bigger the nib is than a #6, while I watched the video, it looked almost exactly as long, though admittedly broader. To my eyes. Can't wait to get my hands on mine and see for myself how big it is.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Chris' video shows the dimensions of the nib pulled from the collar. I've not pulled the nib, only unscrewed the unit but I measured the distance from the section to the tip on both and the #6 is 22mm and the #8 is 25mm.

[@ichirofakename]

@@InkquiringMinds More good facts, thanks. So the #8 is 12% longer.

[@InkquiringMinds]

@@ichirofakename just like a #5 is 4% smaller than a #6