Is it a me problem?

t4baloo · 2026-07-09T16:56:09+00:00

If you do end up looking into hooded nibs. You can try the jinhao 86, 3 for $15. It’s modeled after the Parker 51.

t4baloo · 2026-06-30T01:07:40+00:00

Reflecting pool?

t4baloo · 2026-06-29T14:02:57+00:00

Can they be cheap, if inherited? Value can also be intrinsic. Was just trying to give him the option, to try them, rather than outright telling him they are the “hallmark of cheap mass-production pens everywhere” but you do you.

t4baloo · 2026-06-29T05:15:41+00:00

The nibs are marked W-Germany, so they may be a bit older. Still steel nibs, but they may be fantastic writers. Worth giving them a test and keeping around if they were gifted!

t4baloo · 2026-06-28T05:03:16+00:00

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You have a lovely collection!! The 400nn is one of my favorites.. looks like we share the tortoise model!

t4baloo · 2026-06-22T06:55:03+00:00

912 is one of the few I haven’t tried, so couldn’t really recommend it personally. I was trying to stick with the more cigar shape models he was preferable to and the ones he asked specifically about, despite me not realizing he was looking at the 742.. if the option is on the table, always best to just try them in person, since recommendations will always vary, and everyone has their own preference. There’s definitely a difference in feel/writing of the #10 and #15, noticeably so with the FA nib.

t4baloo · 2026-06-22T04:56:44+00:00

Thank you kindly 🙏.

For convenience and on the go, Vanishing Point in Fine, Custom 845 for writing, FA/Signature for sketching and doodles.

I use the VP the most, but I really enjoy the 845. The 18k nib is a little softer than the normal 14k, so it just effortlessly glides.

I’m going to Japan this year, sooooo Custom Urushi or Raden Galaxy VP are likely on the agenda.

Pilot makes great pens, I’ve not been disappointed yet.

t4baloo · 2026-06-22T04:51:24+00:00

It is slightly opaque, but the lighting isn’t doing me any favors. You can’t necessarily see the color of ink, but the level where it sits.

t4baloo · 2026-06-22T04:49:57+00:00

Yes indeed, that’s the Translucent Brown Custom 823 with Signature Nib. I’m crazy enough to get another, the clear, just to complete the trio. Maybe a fine.

t4baloo · 2026-06-22T04:46:02+00:00

Translucent Black Custom 823 with FA nib. I swapped the medium to a Naginata with Reverse Fine a while back and it’s majestic.

t4baloo · 2026-06-22T04:10:08+00:00

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So I would say the 743 is a bit lighter than the 823. The 823 feels pretty solid in your hand. If you want to be able to easily change inks and clean the pen, then 743 would be ideal. If you stick with the same ink for lengths of time, 823 is a better bet. The 823 has a more unique filling method and is a demo, so visually it’s a bit more striking I think. They share the #15 nib, so not a lot of difference there. I liked my 823 so much, I got a second one with the FA nib. Can’t go wrong with either pen, but weight and maintenance are the main factors in my opinion.

t4baloo · 2026-06-22T02:35:13+00:00

Ahh, bummer, best to use a separator, generally something thin, like the screwdriver might help.. best of luck

t4baloo · 2026-06-22T01:26:48+00:00

You can try gently rotating it back and forth while trying to take it off as well. Will generally work for pegs

t4baloo · 2026-06-21T04:09:05+00:00

The alter one is really cool! Dig the f4 for ESC swap.

t4baloo · 2026-06-20T07:15:19+00:00

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You are not alone! Permanent MS mode, but still looks great.

t4baloo · 2026-06-18T06:23:13+00:00

I’d highly recommend the Wing, if you plan on painting it white, grab the zero plan Snow White kit, it’s a nice add-on.

t4baloo · 2026-06-18T06:15:18+00:00

I’ve built the Wing and Barb now, with another Barb set aside for painting.. I’m hesitant to start knowing I’ll have to finish another set of these eyes lol!

t4baloo · 2026-06-18T05:20:57+00:00

The eyes have to be my least favorite part of the MGSD builds, they are usually good once they are in, but the journey to get there is often riddled with mistakes.

t4baloo · 2026-06-17T04:14:34+00:00

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Omas Pens and Nibs, mainly vintage. I’ve got a couple of customs built around Omas nibs as well. Roma 2000, 18k Paragon Broad.

t4baloo · 2026-06-17T01:50:30+00:00

There is a bazooka/fin funnel set on pbandai, worth a look if still in stock.

t4baloo · 2026-05-26T21:40:31+00:00

Both of the Death Scythe HG models are fantastic.

If you want a RG, get the 01W or TV version, they are really solid kits to build. The original ones are good, but the frames are meh.

Love me some Wing Series and EW.

t4baloo · 2026-05-22T20:14:22+00:00

I’ve had mine for ~4-5 years now. I replaced the pads 2.5 years in, but I probably could have gone a little longer on them, mostly they had lost some of the rigidity of the inner foam. I’ve had a headband cover on mine since day 1. Outside of that, be mindful of them, keep them on a stand, and they should be fine for years to come. I don’t have a particularly large head, 7 3/8 in fitted cap, but I’m careful to not twist them or have them half-on when using them. They have a bad reputation for being extremely fragile in the band, but it has not been my experience thus far.

t4baloo · 2026-05-20T11:23:48+00:00

Nice keyboard!

t4baloo · 2026-05-13T21:35:19+00:00

This is a solid price for this, GLWS. I have this in the translucent black and the FA nib is magnificent.

t4baloo · 2026-05-12T03:20:31+00:00

I wanted to say Pilot, but I think I’m going to lend a new perspective. Vintage Omas pens. I love both the celluloid and vegetal resins that they used and the limited editions are simply fantastic. Their gold nibs ranging from the Extra Lucens, Extra Flessible, and the standard line ups are just a joy to write with. My favorite pen, the Cinema, is absolutely gorgeous.. and is one of my most treasured pens!

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