Pilot Falcon Fountain Pen Unboxing and Review

The Pilot Falcon is a unique fountain pen. The 14k gold nib is shaped like no other and is evocative of its avian moniker. This one has an SF (soft fine) nib that has a lot of bounce but falls short of being a true flex nib. I unbox it, talk about the parts and features of the pen, provide some size comparisons and measurements, and then do a writing sample. After the writing sample, I talk about what I like and what I don't like about the pen. Please feel free to use the chapters provided below to skip to various parts of the review.
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Chapters:
Start 0:00
Unboxing 1:12
Parts and Features 2:52
Size Comparisons 11:04
Measurements 11:40
Writing Sample 11:54
Likes and Dislikes 15:51
Let’s connect:
Instagram - douglasrathbun
Twitter - @djrathbun
Email - [e-mail]
Concerto No. 3 in F major, Op. 8, RV 293, "Spring" by Antonio Vivaldi, in HD quality!
- Classical music piece performed by: John Harrison - Violin / Robert Turizziani - Conductor / Wichita State University Chamber Players
- Music licensed by: John Harrison
- Music license: CC BY-SA 1.0

[@PanjiAditya90]

it's like my fountain pen-addicted grandad teaching me about his hobby. Great work, sir. Thank you

[@InkquiringMinds]

My pleasure

[@Inazarab]

The editing that goes in to these videos is insane. It is so well done, It must be a lot of work and it is not unappreciated.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Wow, thank you!

[@arlenealennox3136]

I’ve had my red Falcon SEF for 5 years, and it has been absolutely reliable. Never a hard start or skipping. I got it for drawing so I could have a little line variation, but I seldom push it. Glad to learn when it was made on the nib: 7/14.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thank you, Arlene!

[@steventrosiek2623]

It's perfect for drawing or sketching.

[@jungroe94]

Wow, what an informative and thorough review of the Falcon. I've had mine for a number of years, but your review has led me to appreciate the pen so much more. That clip always stood out to me as special, but you really did it and the whole pen justice. It is a very reliable and well designed pen indeed. The best Falcon review I've seen yet. Thanks.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@julesuiterwijk3218]

I love how you give quality reviews with room for humour (note the millennium falcon part, had an absolute blast), keep up the amazing videos you produce sir!

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thank you very much, Jules!

[@steventrosiek2623]

Thank you for a wonderful review. I really love my Falcon also. I have it in , and it is just marvelous. Fantastic writer, even just for standard writing. I never have skipping, hard starts, or scratching.

[@reillyi7607]

This was my first gold nib pen, bought back in 2014. I've never tried flexing with it (my calligraphy doesn't look good and I'm afraid of damaging it) but for a smooth, soft writing experience, this pen really can't be beat. I got the SM.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thanks for sharing! I'm no good at flex writing either but the Falcon has some wonderful character.

[@stepheninks]

I’ve been waiting for this review!

[@InkquiringMinds]

Hope you like it!

[@aag24]

Another super video, Douglas. Thank you for keeping us all entertained with your wonderfully produced videos. Now, if only our Chinese friends started making flexible or even just soft nibs.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Maybe one day!

[@BC7Bill]

I really enjoy writing with my Falcon. I went with the silver trim, a sublime beauty! I am excited to get home and use my loupe to see the build date. Very enjoyable review, great jokes! 😁

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thank you, BC7Bill!

[@davecharvella4854]

Doug, so glad this pen appears to have worked out for you! I absolutely love mine! I'm not a huge fan of gold trim, so I opted for the rhodium. Glad I did ... stunning! I love Pilot nibs, "fines" in particular, and this SF did not disappoint! I inked mine with De Atramentis Sherlock Holmes ... great combination!

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thanks again! That De Atramentis Sherlock Holmes is a lovely blue/black.

[@Domina7ion]

I've found with the flex nibs I own I enjoy them if i stop trying to actually flex them and use them as fine nibs with a bit of line variation

[@InkquiringMinds]

That is exactly my experience with it Dom! Relax and write normally and it is sublime.

[@PenFriends]

if you get a true flex nib like a Mont Blanc 149 caligraphy, then it'll behave accordingly so (perhaps one of the best modern flex nib). The thing is the falcon is not a flex nib, it's a soft fine like Douglas mentioned in his description. Therefore you won't get the same performance as perhaps a pen which has been designated as one. Even the much-coveted scribo feels are not perfect, they don't have the classic snapback which you'd get from a vintage nib. The pilot falcon is a very fine writing experience and if I were to add one to my collection, I'd get someone like Bokumondoh to do some urushi work to it! I like understated pens, but this is a little to plain for my liking.

[@martinlebl631]

@@PenFriends Well that is just ungodly price point. You might as well get vintage wet moodle for a fraction of the price, and even better flex.

[@PenFriends]

@@martinlebl631 Yup, won't disagree there. Perhaps the best value flex nibs going today would be from the likes of FP Nibs, or any custom nib grinder e.g Richard binder. If going mainstream, I'd look at STIFLEX from stipula, or Santini. But the issue is modern feeds are manufactured entirely different from vintage feeds and thus have changed the characteristics of how flex works.

[@martinlebl631]

@@PenFriends Unfortunately Richard is now semi retired, and nibs from him, or his apprentices are just too pricey for many people. One of his flex nibs is on my bucket list. And most modern flex, even they actually work don't come with a feed that can keep up, so it is frustrating. Often vintage is the only answer. Or getting hands on with your feed to make it more of a gusher.

[@cathiescott7382]

Another great video. The Falcon was the first gold nib pen I bought. I’m also not much of a fan of fine nibs but I enjoy the smoothness and the bit of line variation I get with this pen.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thanks for sharing, Cathie! :)

[@TheNightowl001]

A Pilot metal Falcon in SEF is one of my grail pens! Thanks for this review!

[@InkquiringMinds]

My pleasure! I know the metal version would feel much more substantial in the hand. This one is a tad light.

[@williamcrane1]

I’ve had my Falcon, albeit with the medium nib, since March. My writing experience, as yours, is pure joy. My writing consists mostly of writing letters to my two daughters, grandson, some high school and college chums, and working on my memoirs, or as I find my fitting and humble, my book of remembrances. On the right paper the ink flows as fast, faster even, given my 72 years, as my thoughts. Style, as you say is classic. I love this pen. This serves in my rota of costly pens: Sheaffer Connoisseur (bought 1986), Pilot Custom 823, Pilot Custom 74 in Deep Red, Sailor 1911 Large, and a Pelikan M205. Your reviews are spot on.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thanks, William. That's a great collection you have!

[@williamcrane1]

Douglas Rathbun Thanks to the internet I see we have another interest in common - photography. Do you still have four D7100? I just sent mine off to my daughter in Seattle, having replaced mine with the D7500. My older daughter is a 1992 graduate of RISD. Oh, and as for me, my degree is in Communications. Your CV is quite impressive. Of course, all that talent shows in your reviews. 👍

[@InkquiringMinds]

@@williamcrane1 Well thank you so much, Sir! That is very generous of you. Yes, I still have and love my D7100. I've been doing photography since 1978 and have owned exactly three SLR's; a Minolta SRT 101, a Minolta MD-11 (the first camera with Aperture and Shutter Priority settings) and this D7100. I love the D7100 and see no need to upgrade it at all.

[@Scott-wi7rm]

Great video Doug, very entertaining, you have something different then all others, I imagine it's your joy for all things artistic.

[@InkquiringMinds]

It sure is, Scott! :) And lots of time on my hands. (And ink)

[@edwardwiper1323]

Glad you like the falcon Doug i had a good idea you would.I would agree about the nib far to fine for me(medium for me).Good & honest review as usual.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Cool, thanks, Ed!

[@amyfeigt6715]

I just ordered one of these! It's due to arrive tomorrow & I just can't wait! Amazon better be Johnny on the spot! 🤣 🤣 🤣

[@ShahriarFarkhan]

Hey Doug, Liked the review! I found the Falcon to be a nice bouncy nib for daily writing and not really flex. I was considering getting a metal Falcon with the Spencerian mod. I have a ton of flex nibs but it may be a nice addition to my stable :) Loving the movie references.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Hey Shahriar! I'd be fascinated to know about the Spencerian mod!

[@emirtijerina]

Lol and to think, all of this started for me with the purchase of a mont blanc watch! Been going down a rabbit hole on fountain pens...I think I'll buy this one first, then buy a MB 146. Thanks for the video, sir! This was awesome. No more pilot g2 pens for me! 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@anniebus105]

I really appreciate your review and it is quite timely. I've been looking at the Pilot Falcon for some time and would like to add it to my collection. I hear the Noodler's Ahab Flex is a better flex pen and for way less money; however, no one can beat the beauty of the Falcon nib! It's just gorgeous and does provide a little flex.

[@InkquiringMinds]

There is no question the Ahab is a better flex pen as the Falcon is NOT a flex pen at all. It does bounce but that's it. It has some nice line character. You can have your Falcon modified to flex but I have no info on that. I have not used an Ahab either but people love them for flex.

[@thedirtygot9570]

I have the metal version and it writes like butter!

[@clintondavis3363]

From the standpoint of design, I agree that it exudes class within its class. While the Con 40 is a minor issue, I like to change inks so it doesn’t bother me that the capacity is low and I can easily use a syringe to fill a cartridge. I don’t feel the need for s matching gold bling on the bottom of the pen. It’s classy as it is, and I feel that a dot on the bottom takes it into the gaudy arena (trying too hard to garner attention). It’s elegant in a way I’d expect from a Japanese pen. I’ve also got the ES95 - lovely pen. To be sure, the writing style and purposes for pens affects the subjective nature of a user’s opinion. Good review.

[@JSerrato289]

I came for the review but that is an amazing handwriting

[@ericrollo615]

Such a classic but unusual pen Doug. Like you copperplate and spencerian writing will never be my forte. I blame my dyspraxia which can make fine movement control a real challenge. The nib does seem to have a passing resemblance to triumph nibs but without the overall conical shape. Excellent review Doug 👏👏

[@InkquiringMinds]

Yeah, Eric. I'm endlessly fascinated with interesting nibs; the e95s, my Targa, a PFM or Legacy, the tubular nib on my Wing Sung 601a etc. The cool factor with a nib is a big shiny thing for me.

[@subhadipmaji4987]

I have a resin falcon with rhodium trims in soft fine nib...the nib is just awesome...

[@Sonicman415]

I really like the look of this nib, don’t care about flex writing either.. It’s pretty. I want one, but I wish it took a con 70.. I prefer the resin version. Love your video inserts.. Star Trek.. the best. Falcon A. Robert Oster makes some fine inks... This one is no exception. Great vid, as always. Thank you.

[@InkquiringMinds]

The metal version of the Falcon takes a Con70.

[@michaellmikeyymike]

excellent Doug, I'm still a newb. the falcon is my dream pen,I Like line variation. my main use is drawing.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thanks, Michael.

[@davidmcguigan5497]

Thanks, Doug! Saw this pen in yt figure drawing demos by artist Glenn Vilppu. His was the Namiki (Pilot) Falcon. Those vids are a great way to see a fountain pen in use and I'm sure there are many others, e.g. artists using fude nibs.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thank you, David!

[@invaderzim1964]

I have the metal falcon SEF that provides a nice line variation, but was never marketed as being flex. I also have a Custom 913 with the FA nib which provides even more line variation but not a flex. The most flexible fountain pen I have is a vintage Waterman 52, which is so much nicer than my Jinhao with a Zebra G.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thanks, David. ChrisRap52 also mentioned the Waterman 52. :)

[@jikerwa]

I’ve been wanting this pen for a while, simply because I like having line variation with a flex nib but I don’t really need all the flex of one. I hope this will be perfect for me!

[@InkquiringMinds]

I is a great pen if you just use your normal writing style and pressure.

[@tanyapunyo2074]

The nib looks like a sword 😮😮

[@JoelTurrell]

Fascinating, great review. I have always wondered about the Falcon pen. Interesting nib shape, which differs from the FA nibs I have. I may soon find it is needed at my desk, if I can find a compelling price.

[@InkquiringMinds]

OMG! I've influenced Joel Turrell! My job is complete. :)

[@JoelTurrell]

Never too old to learn some new tricks.

[@kapirk2244]

I finally lost it at the forehead thumping. 🤣🤣🤣 That is another pen that has been in my list but never purchased. I do love the classic black pens, I think they remain more elegant looking through the years. Glad you have found you can enjoy such a fine nib.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Gotcha again KA! I think I'll continue trying to make milk shoot out your nose even if you were my only KZbin viewer. LOL

[@kapirk2244]

Douglas Rathbun I can’t drink milk, but I’ve come very close with coffee! It’s bound to happen at some point. I’ve had too many close calls, or my computer has. 😁

[@agradoville]

Excellent info. Very nice looking pen. Love the sleek looks and the shape of the nib is beautiful.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thank you kindly, Andy!

[@agradoville]

@@InkquiringMinds ok, I have to ask the burning question. V.O...or Canadian Club?

[@InkquiringMinds]

@@agradoville Oh dear lord you have to ask? CC all the way!

[@agradoville]

@@InkquiringMinds lol...finally something we disagree on. Starting to worry for a bit that you were a separate version of myself in another dimension. I got introduced to V.O. back in the late 90's when I worked for a canadian by the name of Ed Grimm. He led the U.S. based Hinz Automation and I've been partial to the V.O. and diet soda since. So I guess you'll be sipping your C.C and playing your strat while I'm sipping my V.O. and listening to the twang of the Gretsch!!!! Cheers

[@InkquiringMinds]

@@agradoville I don't drink much at all and play the Gretsch even less. I'm more of Gibson/Martin acoustic and diet Pepsi guy now.

[@WhatIInk]

Great video (as usual) of one of the greatest of all time pens. FYI, the cartouche in the gold hallmark (technically a makers-mark) is the Namiki logo. Loved the Millennium Falcon joke.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thanks for the info, Alan! Namiki's logo is PP blob F?

[@WhatIInk]

@@InkquiringMinds The "blob" is the Namiki logo. The PP and F are likely date codes for the gold.

[@InkquiringMinds]

@@WhatIInk Fascinating! Thanks, Alan!

[@alexeypopov314]

A similar pen (an SEF red with rhodium trim) started my obsession with Pilot products ~5 years ago. ~2 years ago I bought an SF Metal Falcon and finally found my perfect pen. Use both for writing though.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thanks for sharing! I hear the metal Falcon is roughly the same weight as the regular Falcon?

[@alexeypopov314]

@@InkquiringMinds The metal Falcon is a bit bigger and roughly twice as heavy. I haven't got proper scales and cannot give you exact numbers, I just subjectively compared these. Also, IMO the design of regular Falcon is better. But it has a SEF nib that's a bit scratchy. The metal one's SF nib is smooth as silk. I had some longer than two hours writing sessions with the metal one, no cramps at all.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Alexey Popov Thanks for this Alexy!

[@bovnycccoperalover3579]

I love my Falcon, which I bought when it was still called Namiki.😀

[@InkquiringMinds]

I wish the metal version weren't so expensive. With a Con70 converter it would be an awesome pen!

[@zemansk7888]

I like how the pen was reviewed. Very detailed. I just got mine a few days ago... after obsessing over a month watching and reading reviews. I was wondering if you thought this pen was a flex pen or did you just mention this for those who think the namiki Falcon nib is the same as the FA nib

[@InkquiringMinds]

The Falcon is definitely NOT a flex pen and Pilot has cautioned about this as well. Just a super-soft fine nib.

[@ChrisM-st1pw]

I got the metal one a while back and it is my favourite for drawing, though I did recently get a vintage pilot elite short with an SF nib that I think might be better, softer and a bit less feed back. Pilot make some great pens.

[@stepheninks]

@Chris Morgan: any other recommendations for artists? I love drawing with my pens, and the metal falcon has been on my list for a while (after I save my money for a while). I’d love to hear what another pen artist uses!

[@ChrisM-st1pw]

@@stepheninks I like my penbbs 355 with a REF nib too, if you want drawing specific reviews of fountain pens have a look at Teoh Yi Chie's channel.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Very cool! I've looked around for those vintage Pilot Elites. They are very interesting.

[@ChrisM-st1pw]

@@InkquiringMinds I managed to get one in the steel plaid finish, perhaps something to use your next KZbin cheque on? ;)

[@InkquiringMinds]

@@ChrisM-st1pw The search is on!

[@archivist17]

Doug! I'd managed to convince myself I didn't need this pen. Now you go and shake my resolve lol.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Sorry! But it might happen again. ;)

[@archivist17]

@@InkquiringMinds That is a risk I will have to take.

[@sajjadhusain4146]

A little late in seeing this ace review of yet another superb Pilot pen. I have a pair of Falcons; a red w/chrome trim and a grey metal Falcon w/chrome. The nib looks fabulous. And the soft medium nibs on both my pens write like a fantasy. Sublime smooth, bouncy, wet and consistent. I did not expect ‘flex’ and I didn’t really get it from my Falcons. When I want flex (which I seldom do), I seek and intentionally buy a pen with a bona fide flex nib. The Falcons are stellar writers with their soft, lithe nibs. I’m usually not a big fan of black with gold trim. But this is one of the few occasions that this pairing appeals to me much, as in your Falcon here. The only let-down on this pen is the ridiculously lame Con-40 converter. On pens of such quality, this converter is a bad joke. I dislike cartridges too. But I’ve had to reluctantly settle for that to use in my Falcons. Fine review of an equally fine fountain pen. Thanks for this!

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thank you, Sajjad Husain! I've ditched the Con40 and using the cartridge now. The flow is much better.

[@sajjadhusain4146]

Douglas Rathbun ...True. And cartridges often have flow issues of their own. But a Pilot cartridge, or anything else really, is far more preferable to the useless Con-40.

[@i.c.3157]

Hmm... I guess my expectations for line variation were a bit high for this pen. For a similar price I think I'll look into picking up a pilot custom heritage 92 which comes with a gold nib, I've heard good things about pilots gold nibs but I think I'll wait till I find it at a discounted price or buy it second handed, great video as always and I hope they don't stop coming.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Where are you seeing a Custom Heritage for $123 US?

[@i.c.3157]

@@InkquiringMinds I did say they were "similar" but the retail price for a custom heritage 92 is around $133-$220 depending on the retailer and the falcon can range from $130 to $220 depending on what material the body is made from, these are the prices in the US at least.

[@InkquiringMinds]

@@i.c.3157 I'll keep looking for a Custom Heritage 92 in that lower range. Everything I see is over $200 at the moment.

[@Johan-vk5yd]

”You told me again, you preferred handsome men, but for me you would make an exception”, said by one incredibly famous canadian poet. I think the quote fits the topic on good fine nibs making several pen reviewers admit to excepting them from a general dislike for ”fine nibs”. Food for thought. Maybe size doesn’t matter as much as quality?

[@InkquiringMinds]

LOL! Thanks, Johan!

[@qvisionstudios]

You might be onto something Doug, Pilot should make this in a Piano Ivory White finish and call it the Millennium Falcon (after agreement with Disney of course)! Just bought a used one and it's in line to get inked soon.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Now wouldn't THAT be a freakin' cool pen? Piano/Ivory white with gold trim and nib. I'd line up.

[@petemanherz7296]

Another fine review Doug, I agree with Dom, I have tried "flexing" with my flex nibs and found it not very pleasant. But write with them normally and I get great line variation which is very satisfying.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Exactly, pete! Relax and it flows.

[@MrAndrew1953]

I shall write to the Pontiff about these outrageous millennium Falcon,ink puns

[@InkquiringMinds]

LOL

[@jeffroberts532]

Nice pen Doug! I hope I win the giveaway!!! Hehe. Love the Star Wars references! Thank you for another fine video.

[@InkquiringMinds]

LOL... Ummmm nawp! Thanks, Jeff! :)

[@martinlebl631]

I second that. :)

[@mrpilotsapien7705]

great puns! I enjoy your creativity!!!! han solo writing session..... i screwed that up ill leave that to you> THUSLY ill be getting a falcon.....

[@InkquiringMinds]

Very cool! Thanks!

[@vishalachari2281]

Awesome pen..i love mine only issue is the con 40 converter which is awful

[@InkquiringMinds]

It is! And the Con70 is so good! I'm using the empty cartridges. Works fine for me.

[@RobertMaguire67]

I had one in a broad nib purchased in DC at a pen show as an impulse purchase at the end of the show before rushing off to the airport to fly back to Toronto. I played with it and discovered I disliked it and sold it. Now recently like you purchased a soft fine recently during pandemic Amazon and EBay shopping. I really prefer the finer nib and really have only a small number of fine nibs. A larger ink converter is a must for a broad nib laying down twice as much ink as a fine nib but the standard converter they come with is adequate for the fine. Justus 95 and the Falcon are fun pens for the weekends. Not too keen on either soft nibs for quick and long business writing sessions. So Doug, not too sure what your using the pen for....such as in an office setting or just for fun at home?

[@InkquiringMinds]

Being reitred, my office/studio is in my home. And my hobby is reviewing pens. Those I like, I keep. Those I don't like, I give away or sell. This one is a keeper because I like playing with it now and then.

[@tobymulder196]

It looks like it could be eyedroppered and I noticed an eyedropper reference in the written instructions. What do you think? Very nice review as usual. Thanks.

[@InkquiringMinds]

I'm not confident about that. The barrel is two pieces and a ring. I think I'm going to stay with filling a cartridge with a syringe for this one.

[@nickelazoyellow7360]

Just received my 2nd falcon yesterday. The first is a resin medium. Way too broad for me. This time I got a SEF metal. It is like a needle but I think it needs to loosen up with use. It's heavier than I thought it would be, and back weighted capped. So unlike the resin, which is perfect capped, I may use this one uncapped. It's really purty though. Question, if you refill the cartridges rather than use the con-40, will you pull out the little blue cap things first?

[@vrajeshkumar]

You can use it to reseal the catridge. Fill up a couple, reseal and reuse. No need to pull it out if you are reusing it.

[@nickelazoyellow7360]

@@vrajeshkumar How do you do that? I'm looking at an empty now. the disc is sideways in there. So I fill the cartridge then use the syringe to push the disc into place?? When you do that do you actually throw the re-filled cartridge in a bag and go?

[@InkquiringMinds]

I pull the little plug out as I'm retired and not travelling at the moment. But if I was going somewhere and needed a bunch of cartridges filled with my favourite inks, I'd leave the plug in but seal the top with hot glue. Then when you need it, just pull the hot glue out and push the cartridge in.

[@nickelazoyellow7360]

@@InkquiringMinds brilliant!

[@robertreid7221]

Wow, this is one lovely pen Doug. It has style and function in spades. May your writing with this pen always bring you joy ✌❤ Rob

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thank you, Robert!

[@chrisrap52]

I've written with a few Falcons & was not encouraged to purchase one. I love Pilots regular SF & SM nibs. I noticed a few skips in your writing when not flexing. In my hand, a Watermans 52 is a much better writer. The nib glides, flow is excellent & if you want line can easily go to a 3B. As you said the Falcon is not a flex nib.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thanks, Chris! Yes, the SF is very sharp and it takes some getting used to for me. It is much better now I've switched to the cartridge and jettisoned the Con40. BTW, I got your letter! Thank you so much! 😃

[@MissMarilynDarling]

oh boy now i get to tell you by the way if you want to you can eyedropper this pen i have had to because oh my falcon the part that punctures the nipple of a pilot cartridge broke inside the section but left the section perfectly in tact so it makes for a great eyedropper :) hope that helps with the railroading issue just make sure you're not gonna carry it nib down for any time and you should be fine a little bit of silicone grease on the treads and bobs your uncle :0.)

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thank you, Marilyn Darling!

[@mariatriesart8389]

I am learning Spencarian calligraphy with a dip pen. I got excited when I heard there waa a spencarian modification I'm assuming that is referring to the nib. This pen is next on my list. I saw a Namiki Falcon on Amazon. What is that one??

[@InkquiringMinds]

I know that the Spencerian modification to the Pilot (Namiki) Falcon is an aftermarket customization that is done by John Mottishaw.

[@mariatriesart8389]

@@InkquiringMinds So the Namiki Falcon is the same penas the flexing Falcon I keep hearing about? I loved the shape of that nib!!! wow! And the design of the clip!! It has a Japanese design element to ot which I absolutely love! How much do they go for now??? Where is the best place to buy one?

[@mariatriesart8389]

Does it come in a Medium nib or does that defeat the purpose of the pen ??

[@InkquiringMinds]

It is rather confusing as there is Pilot US and Pilot Japan. The Namiki (Pilot) Falcon is the resin version and the Pilot Falcon is the metal version as far as I can tell. There are different nib options like SF and FA. Mine is a soft fine. I got mine on Amazon.

[@earthnormal7024]

I use flex pens as a cheaper alternative to gold nibs due to flex nibs being a bit soft or have bounce. So i never thought a gold nib pen would be a good suit for me when a have noodles flex pens that give me flex/bounce already; meaning if I lost or broke that pen it wouldn’t be a problem to replace, but I would be sadden none the less due to the pen writing with excellent flair for me.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thank you, EarthNormal702 Real!

[@mariatriesart8389]

Noodles flex pens? Do they actually flex enough to do some spencarian calligraphy??

[@martinlebl631]

I see the frequency of videos is accelerating. Keep that up, if you can. I know we are at mercy of the shipping people, so who knows if you will have a smooth flow of materials, or borrowing from pen friends as an alternative source.

[@InkquiringMinds]

It’s a challenge!

[@martinlebl631]

@@InkquiringMinds But making good progress on that next order of magnitude of subscriber count, and views count. (Edited to fix the typo, and lost the heart. Oh, well. Would rather have the correct word I suppose.)

[@antarjyoti8166]

Did you try to eye drop it to see if ink flow is improved for fast flex? I wonder if their fine is extra fine according to western standards and medium, fine according to western standards? Your reviews by the way are so charming and unique, quite artistic!!!

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thank you! I would expect the fine to be closer to Western XF. The Falcon isn’t an eye dropper.

[@antarjyoti8166]

@@InkquiringMinds dear sir I am sorry to disagree :it is an eyedropper in the resin version, we see it when you open the document at 2:35 in your video... It is clearly mentioned...

[@InkquiringMinds]

@@antarjyoti8166 It CAN be eyedroppered but it was not designed to be used like that. You must add a good amount of silicone grease to the barrel threads.

[@antarjyoti8166]

@@InkquiringMinds well you know almost all the pens I use as eyedropper are flexible nib pens, ,I use them as art pens and not for practical use as they often present some problem.specially as I work out the feeds for more ink flow! . By the way using candle wax instead of silicone can be also very good for many purposes!

[@antarjyoti8166]

@@InkquiringMinds it seems to me that usually the problem with eyedropper doesn't come with barrel threads but through the feed...

[@MrAndrew1953]

Millennium Falcon/ hand solo dad jokes detract from the dignity of the situation and I got that ink pun. Do you drink oolong tea? I don’t know oolong it keeps for. The pen is very nice . I would prefer a FA Flex nib on a metal Falcon.

[@InkquiringMinds]

OMG! Dad!!!

[@mrpilotsapien7705]

the halmarks at the bottom left is the namiki symbol..... I couldnt read the rest it was a bit too small for me to read.... XD

[@InkquiringMinds]

Yes! I finally discovered the Namiki symbol. :)

[@GuntherSchmidl]

Another great Pilot! For further interesting Pilot nibs, check out the Grandee Urushi (img.aucfree.com/c689407062.2.jpg) and the Myu.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thank you, Gunther Schmidl!

[@jameshunter-davis5629]

Good 'Dad jokes.'

[@InkquiringMinds]

LOL Thanks, James.

[@willk4599]

Does Pilot use the Iroshizuku ink for the provided cartridge?

[@i.c.3157]

Sadly not, the ink inside the cartridge is usually pilot black.

[@InkquiringMinds]

And the blue is BB (boring blue).

[@InkquiringMinds]

Bill: Pilot does have a multicolor "mixable" ink pack. I haven't tried them yet but at a guess, they are samples from some of the Iroshizuku line. They say they are just for the Pilot Parallel, but they are exactly the same size as the standard cartridge.

[@martinlebl631]

@@InkquiringMinds That is the old style oen manufacturer gold standard for included cartridge. If they give you one in black and one in blue, then that is the exciting pack.

[@thm655321]

Douglas, I preface my remarks by saying this is not one-upmanship or anything like that, just want you and your subscribers to know that there is actually a way to get a better version of this pen. I credit this entirely to the youtuber Pelahale who created what he called his "God of Pens" (unfortunately for whatever reason Pelahale took down all his youtube videos so I cannot provide you with a link) . When Pelahale did it he had to purchase two pens, one for the nib and one for the body. But there is an easier and less expensive way to do it. Tokyo Pen Quill Shop (google it), a Japanese retailer with somehow magical ties to Pilot directly, will sell you a Pilot Custom 823 (the required pen) with a #15 Falcon nib (the required nib, different and larger than your Falcon nib). I bought one from them, the transparent demonstrator version (as I already owned the black demonstrator with a regular fine nib). Then you purchase from Flexible Nib Factory (google it) a custom ebonite feed designed specifically for the #15 Falcon nib which permits the Custom 823 to keep up with that nib (the feed that comes with the Custom 823 can't really keep up). I bought the 743 EN black (as opposed to red) two slit version, but there are options. What you end up with is an amazingly beautiful pen with a vacuum filling system that holds a ton of ink that can sufficiently supply that ink through the custom feed to that beautiful #15 Falcon nib. It truly is the "God of Pens". Like you I am still learning to use the Falcon "flex" nib to its best, but man what a journey it is. Also I am a fellow Canadian (Toronto, no hate please).

[@martinlebl631]

I am sating my 823 craving with a bunch of Wing Sung 699s. ;) But eventually I might get one of the real things.

[@thm655321]

@@martinlebl631I encourage that, the Custom 823 is an amazing writer's pen. Can't speak to the 699.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thank you, thm655321! I'd say what you have there is a FrankenFalcon! Again, I'm no Spencerian writer. Now that I've "learned" how this nib behaves in my hand, I like it a lot. I knew there were some modifications possible to the standard Falcon nib as well although I don't know the details. Go Leafs! (I'm originally from St. Catharines).

[@martinlebl631]

GOOD TO KNOW. Will see if I can make that frankenpen happen.

[@thm655321]

@@InkquiringMinds Douglas, look at the 912 variants (black or red ebonite, 2 or 3 slit) on this page for a feed that will keep up with your nib. Trouble is that Con-40 won't hold enough ink to keep it running for too long. For $25 well worth it. flexiblenib.com/store/standard-replacement-feeds/

[@nickturner2813]

Hey, Doug, what's an "Awkening [sic] Sith"? 8:33. Sorry...

[@InkquiringMinds]

LOL... I wrote out the titles of each of the Star Wars films, circled the various nouns and verbs and put them back together randomly so they made a complete sentence with at least one word from each film. :)

[@nickturner2813]

@@InkquiringMinds Oh, I'm sorry, excuse my ignorance, I never followed those films. I thought that you'd just misspelled "awakening" as "awkening"!

[@InkquiringMinds]

@@nickturner2813 Looks like I did! LOL

[@harrier6177]

Doug

[@InkquiringMinds]

DIO!

[@harrier6177]

@@InkquiringMinds do you know who dio is or are you just replying to my comment?

[@InkquiringMinds]

Your comment just said “Doug” so I replied “Dio”.

[@harrier6177]

@@InkquiringMinds ok. I have a question or two about the pen. The first one is: in the video and plenty of others, you mentioned that there was a resin/plastic pen and a metal one. Is there a differance in price and do the two versions have different names?my second question is this: in the video you mentioned that the pen could have a spencerian modification, would it be bought with the modification or is it something you must do yourself?

[@InkquiringMinds]

The mod isn’t something you can do without experience. The metal Falcon and the resin Falcon are named just that; metal and resin. And the metal is more expensive. Here is a link to an article about the modification www.nibs.com/content/spencerian-customization-fountain-pens

[@martinlebl631]

Converters are the real Achilles heel of many of the cheaper and shorter Pilot models. Shame, as the nibs are superb, but the other end of the system let's it down, and refilling cartridges isn't for everyone, and hardly elegant solution.

[@InkquiringMinds]

It works for me, but I can see it being a limitation for others.

[@martinlebl631]

@@InkquiringMinds If you own ink syringe, then you are the person that it will be a non-issue for, but not everyone that buys fountain pen is in that category of an ink tinkerrer.

[@meh8982]

I treasure my old Con-50 and Con-20 converters. Both are better than that awful Con-40 that replaced them. But mostly I refill cartridges. After doing it once or twice it becomes second nature. Fortunately, the Pilot cartridge is sturdy and very easy to clean out and refill.

[@InkquiringMinds]

@@meh8982 I just use the cartridge. The flow is better too.

[@BerndtNorten]

This pen is gorgeous and classy but is plagued by an inherent design flaw: the feed simply cannot keep up with the nib. Google and ye shall find hundreds of complaints of this nature. I've owned it for several years. It does not work with any ink I've tried. Without the flex function, the nib itself holds no appeal. If you flex the nib, it railroads. It hard starts. This is Pilot's one flawed pen. It's unusable to me. It's a beautiful but irredeemably flawed pen.

[@InkquiringMinds]

Thanks for the info!

[@mrpilotsapien7705]

WHAAAAAAAT!!!!!! IT DOESNT TAKE A CON 70!?..........RRRRRRRRGH.....meh IM A SERIAL INK CHANGER ANYWAY........XD

[@InkquiringMinds]

Yeah but the Con70 is a really cool converter.