The BEST Workhorse Fountain Pen

[@yezidie]

Great video 👍🏼 My workhorse fountain pen was (and still) Parker 45 (fine nib). Yes I'm old 😂, it's my go to pen since 1988.

[@michaeltihon3485]

The Lamy 2000 was the last pen I added to my collection due to its look, I was not a fan and I didn't understand why it was so popular. Now I do. Absolutely amazing writing experience. This nib actually makes my writing better than what it is. I don't know, it has an "oblique" feel to it. It's always ready to write, even when I come back to it after weeks, smooth, comfy. A really great buddy.

[@porgeous88]

Agree, that's why I love a Lamy and a stub, gives my handwriting a flourish that doesn't exist with other pens.

[@swainsongable]

Pilot VP: retractable so instant access and no cap to futz with while adding a single word to an ongoing list in your pocket journal, the cart holds more ink than I could use in a day, it's XF gold nib has a beautiful bounce with the barrel weight and girth near perfect for my fingers, and the Japanese engineering is uniquely ingenious 😉

[@BenDover84932]

Trying to decide between XF,F & medium. I have a prefrences for Japanese XF but I heard medium is more fun & bouncy

[@immolder]

Your video made me curious about the pen. When you mentioned the Makrolon material for the body my ears perked up. Went to get the Technical Data Sheets for the material. It is a polycarbonate glass reinforced, off the shelf they have 10%. This will help the impact and deflection, by being black the fibers aren't visible. Interesting brushed finish on the body applied after molding, it would be tough to remove from the cavities of the mold if tooled in the mold. As an EDC it is good for most people, those who work with benzenes, acetones, ethylenes a lot, isopropyls, and kerosene. Mostly mechanics, body men, or in my case plastics. This is not to slam this pen the material is very strong, this material is used in headlights. Other polycarbonate pens have the same limitations. That encompasses most clear pens and translucent pens. I have one ordered to get a closer look, the grind on the top of the nib is for fitment issues. I spent a lot of my career working for German companies, they love the technical bordering on too complicated sometimes. Great engineers.

[@AccipiterF1]

My current workhorse is my Sailor Tuzu. I'm still pretty new to the fountain pen game, so that may change in the future, but damn that pen sure does everything I want one to do.

[@warrenwilson7633]

Awesome choice! Same for me. Mine has a BB nib-love it.

[@chopin4525]

The TWSBI Swipe has become my workhorse pen, I really feel like it has become for me the Bic Crystal of the fountain pens. I can throw it anywhere, it doesn't call much attention and it is flawless in writing and handling without breaking the bank. I would have never imagined that it would have replaced even the ECO as my workhorse when I bought it out of curiosity. Sometimes what you don't expect might give you a pleasant surprise and even modify your long established habits.

[@SeaweedKisses]

I second this! 🙌

[@teache43]

For me Pelikan M200/205 wins it. Minimal maintenance, nice bouncy steel nib, light, small, not expensive, and writes every time you want it.

[@Doodlebud]

Pelikan pens fantastic! I really want to try a M200 as I've heard only great things about those bouncy steel nibs

[@schawo2]

@@Doodlebud I'm not that happy with my "green marble" M200. The nib is bouncy, but I don't like the heavy, pencil like feedback.

[@reveme]

@@schawo2mine is buttery smooth. It’s an M nib. I’ve tried other expensive pens, M200 is the best to date

[@alexanderverdoodt]

Couldn’t agree more. I love mine so much.

[@teache43]

@@schawo2 The nibs are often not perfectly tuned when they are new. But they are very responsive to adjustments. I recall first time I tried one in a shop and really disliked it. Once I had the chance to write with a good one (green marble by the way), there was just no way back.

[@jamesmiddleton2856]

A Wingsung 630 with a steel nib and translucent red barrel that just floats across the page. It was $22 USD on sale. I have one with a black translucent barrel that is just as good. I should grind one to an architect nib. Less than a turn to take off the cap. Square ends. Lays perfectly in my hand. Works every time. XXF in reverse. Thanks for the video, I wouldn't have thought of it that way. I work from home at my desk. There are so many great pens and so few that say this could be my workhorse forever when you reach for a pen first thing in the morning.

[@caseyjp1]

Of your choices, the Jinhao 9019. Fits like a glove and that #8 is smooth...for 10$. I've been shocked at how good the Jinhao 9013 + M heartbeat nib is. (Also the best reverse writer I've ever tried.)

[@tinacampbell2610]

Love my Lamy 2K in EF for my everyday carry right now with Lennon Tool Bar Sesame Oil ink. Nice incognito fountain pen many people don't notice it, so it hopefully won't walk off. Love the snap cap, it's a beautiful writer... I also carry a Lamy Studio Rose Matte EF for grading papers (inked with pink ink) a Sailor Realo (Bungubox, Cinderella's Slipper & matching ink) in MF with light blue ink for grading if I want a different color. Great pen and love the Sailor Realo piston filler... My favorite EDC is my Visconti Homo Black Lava Sapiens Bronze Age EF fountain pen clipped to my side pants pocket (in my scrub pants). I teach high school Pre- Nursing classes & Anatomy classes. It was a surprise gift from my husband last month, and it's been in on me and in a pocket ever since I received it. Such a great workhorse for me inked with a mix of Pilot Iroshizuku inks that make a dupe Ina-Ho ink. A few people at work know about my HS Bronze Age FP and tease me about the Lava pen... Love your videos and I'm a big fan of your channel. Keep up the great content... I come to your channel for the great information you provide in my future pen purchases and just to see how technical and geeky you get with your pens. Your videos are always on my must watch list... I also look on your channel to see if you have reviewed a pen I am looking to purchase. Many of my FP purchases have based on your reviews, thank you so much for that... My next EDC to add to my list is a "Grail Pen" it's the Schon DSGN "Smolten" Ultem pen and hopefully it will be here this week.

[@Doodlebud]

Great to hear my vids help you with your pen purchases

[@melissam0ss]

Wasn’t surprised 😜 I saw how much you love this one in your nerd-out video:) and you’ve always hailed it 👍🏽 Enjoyed this video! Thank you

[@Doodlebud]

The brushed finish on the pen is perfect too since it helps hide some of the wear & tear if it picks up a few scratches along the way. Just love that pen!

[@joanjo8465]

Great video. For me, Pilot Capless without doubt. For work and EDC, is the best....Also some chinese options are good..cheaper and wonderful writing.....😊

[@raviykrishna]

Jinhao 80 with Lamy Medium nib is my GoTo EDC pen

[@miketoncray]

PS My nomination would be the Parker 51. It’s simple stylish. The nib writes every time. It has a snap cap. And it’s not too precious… certainly costs less than a Lamy 2000. By the way I would argue that the Platinum Plaisir and even the Preppy would meet all these criteria. They never dry out, are not precious, nibs are great, you can toss them anywhere. And the Plaisir looks pretty classy too. Especially to non ftn pen users observing me use it.

[@gynechiatrist]

Cannot disagree. Does take a bit of persistence to get the sweet spot ingrained. But durable. And tolerates every ink. It’s a trooper.

[@Doodlebud]

My sweet spot is super small with the grind I have on it but since I use it so much its 100% natural to me now. A really fun part about FPs is getting a grind to your exact liking. Sort of like a pair of shoes or jeans that are broken in an fit just perfectly

[@johnnyjet3.1412]

Off the used market got a Sheaffer Targa with inlaid Fine Steel nib - now THAT’s a Workhorse!

[@joaopontes1383]

Sheaffer steel nibs are strong!! I have an Award

[@johngrubb007]

My wife and I are travelling around Asia for 6 months avoiding winter back home in Canada. I had to make some hard choices on what pens I took. My Kaweco AC Sport is always in my pocket but I only use it if I'm out and about and need to make a quick note. The small ink capacity means I need to be frugal or buy some cartridges. I also have my Twsbi Eco and 2 Diamond 580's which were loaded to capacity before we left. Last is my Sailor Blaze, a special edition that I picked up in Japan last year and a full box of cartriges. The Sailor and the Twsbi's are all carried in my Galen Leather A5 zippered portfolio. I'm pretty sure I won't be using up all the ink in all the pens before we get home in April. I really do miss my Lamy 2000 and Pilot Custom 823 though. It was a hard choice to leave them behind but I chose the ink capacity of the Twsbi's as being the most practical for this trip.

[@marcosfatouros3201]

dont have many pens but the kawaeco sport has been in my pocket everyday for the past 2 months and its great!

[@Johan-vk5yd]

A greenswirled Noodler’s Konrad is this week my workhorse pen. It’s shock, crush and bend resistant like no other plastic pen. I’ve been tinkering with it for years😄, and now it’s perfect.

[@Doodlebud]

They typically do take some tinkering but once you get it sorted out the work pretty well

[@surft]

My favorites are always Lamy Safaris. But not special editions. I leave those at home.

[@FriedPi-mc5yt]

My workhorse pens are an Ensso XS Minimalist and a Kaweco Brass Sport. I drop one of them in my pocket first thing in the morning. They are always ready to write.

[@13noman1]

Well, when I look at pens I have inked up continuously (refill, occasional cleaning but in regular use month after month for years), the Lamy 2000 is right there for all of the reasons you mention! It's not my favorite pen of all time but it is certainly a workhorse!

[@walterlocke7973]

Excellent choice for a workhorse pen! I have no fewer than four (!) LAMY 2000 pens and I use them constantly. I currently have two inked up right now, in fact. They're great pens and they are a pleasure to use. Well done!

[@steamdome9162]

My workhorse is an Edison Collier. At $149 it’s can be used as a cartridge/converter filler or an eye dropper filler taking advantage of a huge reservoir.

[@amyfeigt6715]

The LAMY 2000 is absolutely a great workhorse! I managed to find one in EF for about half price secondhand & love it! However, even in the EF nib, it's still a tad broad for my "all purpose", my day-to-day, use everyday for work are my Pilot Vanishing Points (& Majohn A-1) as well as my Kaweco Piston filler.I can count on any of these to do what I need, when I need it.

[@brettsmith1655]

Glad you found your everyday workhorse. The 2000 is the one Lamy that I haven't tried. I just can't bring myself to spend the $$$ on a pen whose Manufacturer has a track record of QC that is worse than some of the better Chinese brands. If/when Lamy can start providing correctly ground and tuned steel nibs on their sub $100 pens I may consider them in the future. Maybe the new Japanese ownership will address this since they are traditionally excellent in this regard. Don't wanna end on a negative note, though. Your channel is just SO interesting. You address fountain pens in a way that no one else has even considered. Keep up the great work

[@mannylamont5757]

Got two workhorse pens: Lamy 2000, and the Kaweco Sport Brass.

[@Aaronides]

I like your stuff Doodlebud, but I can't believe you didn't include any Platinum pens. I just uncapped a 3776 that has sat inked for more than 6 months without use and it wrote without any effort. That, to me, is what defines a workhorse pen - one that writes dependably, every time.

[@othersheep5491]

When I wanted to know about this L2k workhorse of yours, your geek out video is the first one I came across. You definitely took the viewer under the hood. Chef’s Kiss. Nuff searched. Nuff learned. Nuff said.

[@richardsimms251]

This is a nice video with plenty of great practical advice. Thank you RS. Canada

[@peterpuleo2904]

For me, a workhorse that is "ready for action" immediately must be a snap-on, so no messing around with screwing around. Safari is a good choice. I wish I had more snap-ons and fewer screwers in my collection, but I bought without foresight.

[@maximilianschwab9668]

Interesting Video! I do not need to leave my office with my fountain pens so my workhorese pen is a Pelikan M800 in black, that is the pen I use in front of my clients. It is stylish, not to ostentatious, looks "serious", hold a large amount of ink, it is just perfect for me!

[@haroldmarenger3435]

Great choice! My workhorse pen(s), in first to last order, are Lamy 2000 EF or F depending on which I grab first, Parker 51 vacuumatic 14 kt F, Parker 61 fine 14 kt, Lamy Studio EF, and Lamy Safari or AL EF. For me it comes down to what’s closest at hand that has ink in it, and the cap is a slip cap. Of all these it is usually my Lamy 2000 EF and then my Parker 51 (which I’ve had for a few years, that’s been well used). I think I got my Lamy in 1980.

[@slo_carry]

I think my criteria for a daily driver is a little less involved haha. My pen has to be reliable and durable. Thinking about options, I was left with the following: Platinum Procyon, Karas Fountain K and INK V2, Good Blue L130, Modern Fuel, and Ensso Titanium Piuma. If I could only pick one... probably the Modern Fuel. That thing has never once given me an issue, even leaving it capped and unused for months at a time. Another thought is that the one time I tried to carry only a fountain pen, I had a soft gold nib and had to write hard enough to go through carbon copy paper, so a ballpoint will always be on me. Usually a Karas Modal or a Machine Era Classic.

[@Doodlebud]

My Modern Fuel has been flawless as well. There are so many FANTASTIC workhorse pens out there which is great since there is something for everyone at all budgets. My $3 Zebra is a top workhorse pen and for that price blows my mind. I have the budget to pick up a L2K and not worry if it gets a little abuse so I go with that. Love how many dependable pens there are across such a wide price range and different designs so there's something for everyone

[@lzalab2286]

Ultem body FP is the way to go, it’s rugged and withstand high impact drops and scratches .

[@Johan-vk5yd]

@@lzalab2286 That’s a highly relevant comment! I once lusted for an ultem pen, without cap clip, but my Noodler’s resin pens are remarkably tough, besides having a very effective clip, so I redecided. Is your pen clipless?

[@lzalab2286]

@ my Ultem ( Kasama fountain pen) is clipless but I think you can purchase one online or made to order .

[@RPD_ps]

The best thing about the l2k is that it doesn't look too fancy so it doesn't attract too much attention. I love both the l2k and the 823 as everyday carry pens. The 823 holds enough ink to write a biography and have ink left to send some letters afterwards, always writes, and looks gorgeous

[@OnkeiKurotenshi]

I don't have a lot of fountain pens, and most of them I've gotten after I lost my office job. However I used to use my Pilot Metropolitan at work when I DID have an office job. I often wished it had an ink window, but I liked everything else about it. Used it with a converter filled with Diamine Red Dragon (I had a lot of freedom with what kind kinds of colors I could use in that office as opposed to a lot of others).

[@andrewostra3064]

My workhorse is Asvine P36 with Asvine EF nib. But your video here highlight one point, for quick jolting note down during meeting the number of turn to open and close cap really make difference. My other workhose is Pilot Prera with F nib, I love the click open and close the cap, sometime i mindlessly fidgeting open and close the cap.

[@knutvonheim3838]

Love the 2000. One of the first pens I acquired, and still a favorite EDC and the benchmark for other pens.

[@williammodlin2621]

“They” say that great minds think alike and I like your choices. In fact, the only 2 pens that I keep continuously inked are my Lamy 2000 (standard EF) and my MB 149 also EF. Inks are Pelikan Edelstein Tanzanite and Montblanc Midnight Blue respectively. The MB never leaves the house, but the L2K will go anywhere. Thanks for another thoughtful and thought provoking video. Yes, we do like it when you nerd out, too.

[@mlstrm4346]

My current workhorse ended up being a demonstrator Pilot Kakuno. I've had 2 TSWBI Ecos beforehand, but I ended up dropping one nib down, then lost it another day. I ordered another Eco but that one ended up being cracked so it got demoted to desk pen status... Fast forward to mid 2024, I bought myself the Kakuno for my birthday because I also bought a Beyblade for my birthday bundle 🙈. It fell onto concrete but it's perfectly fine and still going strong!! Yay!! I'm a student so I need something inexpensive that won't make me worry so much. The Kakuno has been perfect for me so far, but I feel like upgrading to something more respectable once I graduate. P.S. Go to ink has been Pilot Iroshizuku Shin-Kai.

[@mariexlupin]

I do love my Lamy 2k, and it was one of my main carries back before my WFH days. But I think if I had to pick one, it’d be my Pilot VP. The quick draw aspect of it was always the most useful for taking notes on the go, and the metal body always felt super safe to knock around in my pocket or just clipped to a notebook or my lanyard. And with what is available now, I would probably go with a Majohn A1 or A2 if I was compelled to return to working in the warehouse.

[@grayautumnday]

My VPs tend to be workhorses about 30% of the time, but -- even though I don't like the thicker/single-color-clear-plastic body quite as much -- the UEF nib that doesn't scratch or run dry even with dryer inks (which my VP "special alloy" F nib does sometimes and my 14K EF Decimo does *most* of the time) -- I just end up reaching for the UEF Curidas 70% of the time

[@TS-vp7ep]

I love my twsbi as well, the capacity really last me a really really long time with nice flow even on ef nibs. But do you have any issue with flights, i want to take it inked up but im afraid the air pressure going to ruin it. Can you give me tips on how you stored yours during flight? Does only keeping it seealed and inked full helps?

[@mariexlupin]

@@grayautumnday I thankfully haven’t had any issues with drying, but then again I have a broad nib and a well tuned medium architect for my VP. The Curidas was tempting when it came out, but Platinum’s medium nibs are too fine for my personal preferences.

[@Doodlebud]

Yup VPs are fantastic! Love all of mine and the A1/A2 but I don't find them as comfortable for longer writing. Quick client notes are fantastic but if I'm at a conference and I'm writing more, especially quickly, my writing seems better with the L2K and my hand is more relaxed.

[@elborracho81]

A workhorse pen should have a nib that is easily swappable with the most common types (JoWo/Bock). I use a Namisu Nova Ti Pocket pen, it is a full size pen when posted, durable, easy to swap nibs, holds just enough ink in a short international cartridge, it's awesome and not too expensive either.

[@huckleberry12]

the patina on the montblanc looks great

[@echowoods4869]

To me, it's the Platinum Procyon. It's not for everyone, but I'm pretty happy with the alu-body and the springy steel nib! Great for writing Chinese characters especially, great for long note taking. Though I would fancy me a Lamy 2K stainless if I had the money.

[@echowoods4869]

I'm kind of a fan of how Platinum pens write though

[@ForTheLoveOfPens]

One of my favorites as well. For those who feel it’s too expensive as an EDC, the Jinhao 80 has very similar styling. Plus it’s a cartridge converter and accepts Lamy Safari style nibs.

[@emmaythegray]

I resisted the Lamy 2000 for years, but succumbed. My only gripe is that I wish the ink window were a tiny bit larger. Other than that - chefs kiss.

[@Doodlebud]

Yeah a slightly bigger window would make it easier to check the ink level. But I know the design is all about minimalism so that's what they went for

[@emmaythegray]

@@Doodlebud totally -- it's a 'me problem'. They aced the aesthetic.🌟

[@matthewscott3689]

For me, I think the best workhorse pen is the Lamy 2000. I have literally a couple hundreds pens, everything from $6 Jinhaos up to Pilot 823s, Montblanc 146/149, Pelikan M800/M1000, Sailor KOP, and everything in between. I have a bit of everything. While the Lamy 2000 isn’t the best writing pen I own, or the nicest, I find it is the most versatile and has a combination of features that no other pen has (snap cap, gold nib, piston, hooded nib… I’m aware of the vintage Aurora 88s, absolutely beautiful, I’ve had a few before, but too delicate and not as easily replaceable). The Lamy 2000 is both a nice pen, but not so nice that it’s the end of the world if scratched or lost/stolen. Id be upset if something happened to it as it’s not a cheap pen, but I’d buy another one and my life would go on. As a pen person, I want to carry and use a nice pen, so the inexpensive stuff (while I use and carry often) wouldn’t be my choice. Same with the really expensive stuff ($500+), I don’t want them to be damaged, lost, stolen, etc. Those stay at home, safe and sound. The Lamy 2000 falls in the middle ground territory, nice enough to use everyday, not so nice that it can’t be replaced. The Lamy 2000 is a perfect compromise. Additionally, I work in an office, so having a nice pen to use without being flashy its important. It’s a nice pen, but not so nice that it draws attention, and it’s always professional (I keep it permanently inked with Diamine Oxford Blue). It stays under the radar. Anyone who does notice it likely is into pens too, great conversation starter for those who are in the know.

[@Doodlebud]

Yup, I agree 100% with your comments. We both love it for all the same reasons. While there are MANY fantastic workhorse pens for way less money, the L2K just stands out for me and its perfect. The $3 Zebra pen comes to mind as an AMAZING workhorse pen and for $3 it can't be beat. But I just love the look and feel of the the L2K. Been so tempted multiple times to get a 2nd one purchased 2nd hand just to have it

[@Normy12]

The lamy 2000 is a great pick. Personally, my pick is the lamy studio stainless steel (not the colored ones). It has a good rubber grip, scratching brushed stainless steel looks fine .The cap can securely clip to either side of the pen. It can be taken apart down to the feed, and it uses the standard lamy nibs. The nib issue you (and many) people have with the lamy 2000 is not an issue when you use a standard lamy nib. Plus, iif you want, you can just swap it out with a different one. The only thing I miss is the spring loaded clip.

[@Doodlebud]

Studio is a great pen 👍

[@kd5byb]

I'm really liking my Jinhao 100 Centennials as my workhorse pens. Always reliable, I'm happy with the EF nib, nice width, nice weight, writes quite nicely but I have yet to do any nib tweaking on it. It's cheap, so if I were to damage them or lose them, I'd be sad, but not out a lot of money.

[@EmmeMcCullen]

My current daily drivers are a Pelikan M200 and an Esterbrook Estie with the journaler nib. I just added an Opus 88 minty and it's rapidly becoming one of my favorites. I also have a VP and a Decimo that tend to sit on my desk a lot - if I'm walking to meetings one of the VPs is a must have.

[@MrAndrew1953]

Agree with you on the choice of pen. I use one with an oblique broad nib and medium on the other. Diplomat Aeros like the Oxyd has a bit of heft. Pilot Fermo sits beside my 2000. That Lamy 2000 macralon pencil and multi coloured ballpoint complement the fountain pen nicely.

[@miker5502]

My philosophy on pens ( and other sundry items) is that they are tools to be used, but not abused. The biggest challenge I have, and that I worry about the most is losing them. I find if I carry a more expensive pen I'm much more conscious of their whereabouts, than a super cheap pen. That said I rotate all of them as my mood dictates or needs change. My Pilot Vanishing Point, Kaweco AL Sport and Lamy 2000 rollerball get the most pocket time…super reliable. Great video..Cheers from Nova Scotia..MikeR.

[@AlejandroPato-Fuego-d5n]

Noo! Not the Lamy 2000. U r right on two points. It’s your work horse not mine. Some people hate the lamy 2000! Yes they do. I love my aero. U hate that pen. That’s the beauty of the hobby. It’s okay too disagree. I am going to try to pick up the a2 Friday. Love the video. Love your channel. I am your fan. Cheers

[@Doodlebud]

Yup lots of great pens out there for people to find the right one for them at a price they can afford

[@SouthWind96]

A few workhorse pens for me… as a vet tech, I have to deal with animals scrabbling and scurrying a lot, so scratches on pens in the shirt pocket of my scrubs are almost inevitable. As we all do, I like to switch out my pens on an almost daily basis, but I have some regulars in my rotation. 1) Yes to the Lamy 2000, always a go to. Pre-weathered look, as you mentioned. It writes, and I find it pairs well with the MB Black Permanent (one of the truer blacks out there, great for official things like writen prescriptions, and waterproof/other bodily fluids-proof). 2) Pilot VP. The number of times I need to jot something down and only have one hand free, that pen has been everything I’ve ever needed. Nice enough that you wouldn’t hand it to someone asking to borrow your pen, but not so expensive/fancy that you are devastated by a little wear patina. Was my daily carry for 8 years. Only downside is the limited ink capacity, but I choose to look at that as an opportunity to swap colors twice a week. 3) Waterman Expert 3. Yes, a little on the fancy side, but it carries well in a shirt pocket, and it carries LOW (unlike the VP, with all that gold showing from the clip/section above the pocket edge)! Excellent for avoiding scratches, and the “flashiness” of the Essence du Bleu cap is nicely concealed with just a little black plastic sticking up. Also, a great example of a steel nib that writes as smoothly as many gold nibs. 4) Always, always, always some POS ballpoint or gel pen, exclusively for when coworkers ask to borrow a pen or clients need to sign a consent form. I can’t begin to tell you how many times I’ve had to break out the loupe at the end of the day to repair or retune a nib after someone tried to write with my pen in reverse or sideways, and then just pressed down harder when the ink didn’t flow…

[@manifunk1]

Lately it’s my Sailor Pro Gear the nib has a lot of feedback but my writing looks amazing when I write with it

[@zeus52452]

Loved the video DB. I can see why you like the pen so much. I've somehow managed to collect 2 Makrolon models, 2 Stainless Steel models, and recently added the Pine model. As for a workhorse pen I haven't concentrated on just one, however, the pen I find myself using consistently these days is a Pilot Kakuno.

[@kathrynhorn8095]

Current workhorse would be the TWSBI Eco, as it has great price to performance so I have been getting practically all the colors and can match the ink to the pen. Been having some issues of the qc for the nib, so I’ve been touching them up with your vids playing in the background.

[@thethinker3888]

My personal pick would be either the Lamy Safari or the Platinum Preppy. (lamy 2000 is amazing but I don't think you'd "throw it in the bag" casually lol, Safari does fit that bill tho. The 2000 always stays at home)

[@teresaharris-travelbybooks5564]

After watching this, I think mabe I should just quit being so precious with my pens and go ahead and chuck a couple in my bag.

[@Doodlebud]

Yup! Some I would never do that with like I mentioned, but some I have are meant to be used. I think the stone wash on the AL Sport is a brilliant idea. It already looks beat up when you get it so you don't worry if it gets some scratches. That's whats great about the L2K. It has that brushed finish so it hides scratches really well and the ones you do see don't stand out. A pristine pen with a shinny coating doesn't look as good with some "battle wounds" on it.

[@danielklopp7007]

As mentioned in a comment on the Lochby video, my favorite workhorse pen is the Karas Kustom Ink V2 in tumbled aluminum finish (the "pre-scuffed" finish) with a brass section and a fine nib. I keep this pen inked with Noodler's Walnut (I always have several generic black standard international short cartridges in my bag just in case I'm on an extended business trip and run the converter out of ink).

[@tootsfour956]

Pilot vanishing point is a good work horse.

[@-yeme-]

I have two, the "EDC" type pen would be my brass Kaweco Liliput that goes with me everywhere in pocket or bag, obviously indestructible and has just developed a patina over time. That's for stuff like notes, lists etc so I can ink it with anything I feel like. The pen that lives in my briefcase, with which I write things that others in my professional life will see, is a Waterman Hemisphere. In that I alternate between Rohrer & Klingner Verdigris and Diamine Majestic Blue, striking a balance by using colours that I like and aren't boring standard blue or black, but which wont make people think I'm weird where it really wouldn't be appropriate to use, for instance, a red sheening deep green with glitter in it.

[@LewisLittle66]

My workhorse pen is the Hongdian M2 pocket pen. It's just slightly bigger than a Kaweco Sport, its all-metal so its durable and a nice weight, and its the perfect size to clip to an A6 notebook or TN Passport-size. And if I lose it (which I almost certainly will, sooner or later), it's under £20 to replace it. I could never afford a Lamy 2000 but if I did, and lost it, it would be devastating.

[@schawo2]

For me: Pilot Custom 74 Broad, and Jinhao 9016 transparent with my super-duper custom ground unmarked Oblique Broad nib

[@dsb1763]

I have the SS version of the 2000. Does not have an ink window but I have a BB nib that does what I want it to do, put down INK.

[@klt479]

My best EDC fountain pens in order of preference: Lank 2000,Visconti Homo Sapians Crystal Dream, and Pelikan m1000. I consider Montblo 149s nearly junk due to pool build quality, substandard parts (plastic vs. brass parts), and substandard writing experience.

[@user-gl5ld9vm7i]

I thought that it would have been the Faber Castell e-motion all black 😮

[@Doodlebud]

Its a great pen but I go for the L2K more often

[@FGBFGB-vt7tc]

At this moment I have three pens in my rotation, but since they don't get out of my house don't know if they count. Two of them are Aurora Hastils in Vermeil, Medium 14 kt nibs. Would not leave home with them. They are great writers though. The last one is a simple Parker 25 in black with a Fine nib. It requires a bit of pressure where the Hastils just leave ink in contact with paper, yet its writing experience is almost as good. Also I would not mind going out with it. So I guess Parker 25 is my answer, at least for now.

[@SeaweedKisses]

TWSBI Eco for me!! 🖤

[@Doodlebud]

It's a great pen 🖋️👍

[@JefferyHall-ct2tr]

Hi DB! Have to say I'm one of the haters! They HAVE started making the pen in some different colors, which might entice me still. My go to pen is also from Lamy, but it's the Safari. I toss that thing around and in my pocket and it always writes unless it's out of ink. Plus safaris are colorful!

[@Doodlebud]

Can't go wrong with the Safari

[@Krishnakumar-wl7ih]

I don't know if I would have the heart to throw a 200$ pen in the bag. But, my definition of workhorse if different. I am someone who writes pretty fast, about 25-30 words a minute. I expect the pen to keep up. A Pilot Hi tech point was doing fine but, wasn't getting the desired speed. I can hit these speeds only with Metropolitan. Planning to try the Custom 724, so fingers crossed 🤞

[@aidesbnlee5422]

My choice is Custom 74

[@dr.d723]

Thanks for the video! Yes, the Lamy 2000 is one of my favorite workhorse pens. Like you, I tried the Jinhao 9019 and it's ok but doesn't write nearly as smoothly. I also have a couple of Sailor PGs that are workhorse pens as well because of the larger cartridges and smooth writing experience.

[@JonDiPietro]

I don't love the Lamy 2000 but it is also my go-to pen on the go.

[@EverGreenElephant]

My workhorse is the Diplomat Ex. A2. Super reliable, metal, sturdy, slip cap, functional clip. Not too wet, not too dry. I have it with me and use it every single day. For "fancy" writing it feels a bit too workhorsy, though.It's not a pen you write poems with.

[@Doodlebud]

Great choice

[@paulmchugh1430]

This is a tough decision. It has to be a pen that doesn't need refilling often and is comfortable in the hand for long writing sessions. My current workhorse pen has to be the Conklin All American Demonstrator. It can be a cartridge/converter or an eyedropper. It has an Omniflex nib which is not the greatest but I smoothed the tip and it works wonderfully, not for flex but regular writing. I even smoothed it for reverse writing. It lays a nice Medium Fine line and holds almost 5ml of ink. The Opus 88 Demo would be a close second.

[@ibpopp]

Agree with your review of the Lamy 2000, but it's not my style, since I'm one of those difficult customers who doesn't like the grip. My daily is a Parker "51" or the Wing Sung 601.

[@shades8030]

I used to hate on Benu, but I have to say my Benu Euphoria. That pen so unbelievably reliable and fun. The resin is very durable and the pen writes 100% of the time.

[@escargotomy]

Work horse for me means dependable but also not so expensive that I would be hesitant to take it out of the house. My best pens (especially vintage ones) live at home and never leave for fear of loss. Pilot 823, Sailor 1911L, Platinum 3773 and the like are too expensive to risk loss. Therefore I have given consideration to many mid-level pens that approximate that more luxury experience without the cost factor so that I don't think twice about putting them in my pocket or work bag. My best 5 workhorses: Pilot Lucina , Pilot Ecrino , Asvine V200 , Sheaffer No Nonsense , and Jinhao x450 (with replacement Jowo nib) .

[@neilpiper9889]

Jinhao X159 is my favourite workhorse with the F nib

[@llanbull]

Mine is the Jinhao 10 press. I don't have to baby it. So convenient to have a click pen.

[@etraudrod]

Jinhao 80 here, with a Yiren EF nib. Inexpensive as they come.

[@tomschecker]

I didn't doubt it for a moment.

[@nankhanna]

For me it’s the Jinhao 82 Acrylic and the Kaweco Sport Bronze.

[@kan-zee]

0:43...Agreed , The Price tag of a Mont Blanc fountain pen , is definitely "not a chuck around in the EDC bag writing tool.. My fountain pen collection compared to a 1500$ Mont Blanc or Visconti Homo Sapiens Lava ... Favorite workhorse = 💥 2x Zebra disposable FP, = $7 Chinese Plume stylo bamboo = $10 3x Pilot Varsity, =$12 💥amazon basic =$15 💥(Pilot kakuno $17, / family edition x 5 fp= $100 Jinhao X159 = $20 Jinhao 82 = $20 Jinhao 9019 = $20 Jinhao 8802 = $ 25 Jinhao 992 x6 Fp = $25 Jinhao 9016 = $25 Pen BBS 494= $20, Asvine v126 =$23, 💥Hongdian M2 black =$25 , 💥Parker vector = $23 General Supply, =$25 Noodlers konrad = $30 Sailor, skelton= $30 Majohn Eyedropper = $35 Kawecho sport frost = $35 Sailor High Ace Neo set of 3 CaliPens = $65 Kawecho skyline sport = $45 Kawecho Perkeo = $25 Asvine V126 = $40 💥Pilot prera iro-Ai= $45 Platinum Preppy x7 FP= $45, ($6 each) Lamy Safari = $45 💥Lamy Vista =$43 Twisbi Go, = $50 Twisbi Diamond = $60 Asvine p36 = $60 Monteverde = $55 Sailor High Ace Neo Set of 3 = $75 Kawecho Brass Sport = $110 Platinum Curidas = $155 ---------------------------------------- Grand Total = $1443.oo ..compared to One MontBlanc fountain pen for $1500... ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 1:18... Jinhao x159 Dupe fountain pen ($20 cad) , is a good workhorse. It's funny , when I listen to other FP reviews about , Jinhao FP's .... it's either the cheaper made, its' a copy cat , dup, clone, style of the more expensive FP, the nib, the size, the ink reserve or "too many turns it takes to screw on & off a cap" ..LMAO. It's funny....but few complain about the price.. 2:05 ...Jinhao 9019 fountain pen ($15 cad) 2:54 ...Pilot custom 823 fountain pen ($360 cad) 3:30..Diplomat excellent A2 ($320 cad) 4:56...Lamy 2000 ($200 cad) *GRAND TOTAL of Doodlebuds favorite pens* = over $2500.oo ...I like all Doodlebuds selections.

[@cjpsmachado]

The Jinhao x850 is a better alternative to the MB149 in my opinion, and a more accurate copy in size I believe, never got to measure it but it´s my feeling and what I can see side by side when comparing mine (and I got the pleasant surprise that the Jinhao X850 that I received as the better nib I had ever gotten form a Chinese pen, it´s still not a MB nib, but it´s pretty close, smooth, wet and a pleasantly flexible nib). As my work horse, the one pen that goes with me everywhere for more than 30 years now, is my Parker 45 Flighter.

[@robertcalkjr.8325]

The only pens that I have that I wouldn't care if they got scratched up would be a TWSBI Eco.

[@archivist17]

Yeah, I could agree with that. But a Kaweco Sport and a Pilot Elite precede it.

[@Penfreaq]

Thank you doodle bud for showing us your workhorse pens I made a similar video yesterday of my everyday caring pens I switch them around about once a month I can't wait to get my hands on a LAMY2000 I wonder if they come in medium and broad nibs? And since it's a general bold rider with those be too thick for this pan

[@Kalmaro4152]

TWSBI Eco is my favorite pen to write with, I just need to buy a smaller nib, I have a Medium, and I think I'd like a Fine more.

[@CC-pg92324]

Please don’t be angry, to me the Lamy 2000 looks like a Papermate Flair. But the flair pens come in wide range of colors. The Lamy 2000 in many colors would be very interesting!

[@Doodlebud]

Yup its not for everyone

[@kenchoate184]

My EDC workhorse is the Travelers Company brass pen in factory green. I don't mind the small capacity. With Diamine Midnite ink it writes on most any paper.

[@ichirofakename]

For into-bag-throwability, I would go for a bare metal pen. For quick-drawability, I would go for at least a snap cap or better yet a capless. For peace of mind, I would go for something at a price low enough that I don't think about the price. Unfortunately, no pen to my knowledge fulfills even two of these three requirements. Fortunately, I have no use case for a workhorse pen.

[@ChristopherMay]

Love my Lamy 2000 and it would be an everyday carry kind of pen for me, except mine is a medium. It's sooooooo smooth but too wet for an everyday carry. I should probably pick up an EF version for EDC use but for the time being, I'm happy with my TWSBI Precision with a Fine ground down to an architect by Mark Bacas. I use it almost exactly like you use your Lamy Fine architect -- print first but usable for some cursive. The fine architect is usable on just about any paper, especially since reversed it provides an extra, extra fine that can compete with my Pilot Kakuno EF (don't laugh! that EF nib is actually nice to use!) for how thin and precise of a line it can lay down. The pen has a brushed aluminum finish that is as hardy as the Lamy Makrolon. It's a piston filler with a nice ink window. The large ink capacity coupled with the fine nib means ink fills last forever. The hexagonal construction is surprisingly comfortable, provides an automatic roll stop and looks good. It posts nicely and works well posted and unposted. It might be a trifle heavy but I don't find it overly so. I rotate the pens that I take to work weekly but this Precision is always along carried in the loop of my Lochby Field Journal which goes everywhere with me from desk duty to meetings to construction sites. The Precision has proven to be a great EDC for me.

[@Doodlebud]

Fine architect is a top nib for my EDC pen usage. For lovely writing I don't go for my L2K, as I have others that do the job marvelously. But day-in/day-out notes, printing, dependable, looks great, and above all else WORKS every time without any issue the L2K is perfect. And that cap seals so well and perfectly comes on/off every time.

[@tanvirahmad5893]

I have three workhorse pen with different inks. Lamy Al-star gray, Twsbi Eco purple and a Gray Custom 823. The custom 823 gets used a lot as I always ink it with pilot black. The twsbi eco gets Pilot kon-peki and the Lamy Al-star gets Lapis Bard Cranberry Sangeria. I write a lot everyday and love these three pens.

[@cyberhacks69]

i got my first fountain pen. a Parker IM fountain pen. gotta say i love it, im unsure if its considered a good workhorse but im sure using it as one and it hasnt betrayed me at all. went through like 5 cartriges before i noticed any writing inconsistency, rinsed it with water and let it dry an hour or so, plugged a new cartrige in and it worked like new. ordered a piston converter that hasnt shown up yet, but can say i love this pen. getting the lamy safari next month to compare

[@marcovasquez47]

Wake up babe! Doodlebud just posted a new video!

[@ChillżMaizen]

Babe?????

[@trulsdirio]

To me a big thing for my workhorse is having a Jowo or Bock nib. If anything happens to it (I'm clumsy, alright) I can get a new nib without having to track one down for weeks, or declare bankruptcy. I don't need much ink capacity and prefer a cartridge/converter setup, since cartridges are my go to for being away for a couple of days. Much easier to pop in a new cartridge, compared to fill up a piston or vacuum filler on the go. I ultimately landed on a Kaweco Dia2 with a Bock 086 nib in it. Does everything I want it to do, feels amazing, has just the right size and a great design.