Image from @micahfinds on Instagram
If you’re a regular writer, then you’ll understand the importance of having a go-to fountain pen. These types of pens are commonly referred to as an EDC, or one suited for everyday carry. Whether you are scribbling down notes or writing regular entries in your journal, you may find that you need an EDC, too.
Here we’ll discuss what makes a great EDC and list some of our personal favorites.
What to look for in an EDC
Everybody’s definition of an “everyday pen” will vary widely depending on what their everyday life looks like. For most of us, this involves sitting at a desk and working in front of a computer screen. Some people, on the other hand, are always on the go.
This heavily influences what type of everyday carry fountain pen we might gravitate towards. There may be a focus on function and comfort for people who sit for long periods, while those who travel may need their pens to be transportation-friendly.
Here are some attributes to consider when looking for your next everyday carry:
Reliability.
This is especially important because you want your pen to write with no issues when you need it. If your fountain pen skips or has a hard time starting, then you simply won’t use it.
Ease of Use.
An EDC has to be easy to use for your working style. Whether this means having a snap-on cap instead of a screw-on or choosing a pen that uses converters, it should eliminate any hindrances from using the pen. This is where nib size will also matter.
Ease of Maintenance.
If it takes time to clean your fountain pen and entails a difficult process, then it may be worth considering other models. An EDC should be easy to maintain, and it should also be easily serviceable when needed.
Price.
Consider your own price sensitivity and budget when buying a pen. It should be at a price point that you’re comfortable with. An everyday carry shouldn’t be something that you’re afraid to use daily, even if it means getting a few scuffs.
Size.
Your pen should be just the right size for you to write with comfortably while being easy to bring around.
Given these characteristics, here are a few great picks for your everyday carry.
Kaweco Sport
The Kaweco sport is a popular EDC option for fountain pen users, especially because of its compact size. It is a high-quality pen that is made of hard plastic with a gold-plated steel nib. Although the barrel is much shorter than that of most fountain pens, the elongated cap can be posted at the back for a more comfortable writing experience. This is the type of pen you don’t have to worry about when tossing it into your bag if you’re on the go. It also comes with a very friendly price tag.
LAMY 2000
If you’re looking for a well-built yet sleek fountain pen, then the LAMY 2000 is a great choice for EDC. The pen barrel is made of a fiber-glass polycarbonate material that makes the pen both lightweight and sturdy. This pen uses a piston filling mechanism, so there is no need to fuss around with cartridges or converters. Writers who prefer a softer nib will enjoy the 14k gold nib that comes with this pen. All in all, the LAMY 2000 is a solid pen for your everyday writing needs.
TWSBI Diamond 580AL
TWSBI offers great pens like the Eco, but if you want a workhorse pen of a higher quality, then the Diamond 580AL is a better option. This is another sleek yet hefty fountain pen that comes with a large ink capacity for hours of uninterrupted writing. The steel nibs on this pen are smooth, firm, and fine to write with. It is easy to fill with ink and a no-brainer to maintain as well. The Diamond 580AL also looks beautiful with its silver aluminum grip and clear cap and body, which will make you want to take it around on a daily basis.
Pelikan Classic M200
Some writers may prefer slimmer pens for every day, in which case the Pelikan Classic M200 is a great choice. This pen doesn’t just look elegant but also features a high-capacity piston filling mechanism. It is made of beautiful and strong acrylic resin finish with a useful dark green window to show you how much ink is left in the pen. This pen comes with a stainless steel nib that writes beautifully. The pen clip also makes it easy to place in a shirt pocket or your notebook.
Pilot Vanishing Point
Last but not least, we have the Vanishing Point from Pilot. This unique fountain pen features a capless design that allows the nib to be deployed and to retract with the push of a button. This makes it an excellent choice for writers who need their pen ready at a moment’s notice. You can also swap out your nibs for different sizes and fill it conveniently using cartridges or converters.
And there you have it! Choosing a pen for your everyday writing needs may take some time at first, but there are several great options out there. All that’s left is to find one that works for you.
Happy writing!
Written by EndlessPens Blogger Ramona Kabigting
3 comments
Skippity toilet
wHeRe iS tHe KaWeCo LiLiPuT??!?!?!?!?!?
Ramona Kabigting
@Tati:
Hi Tati! Thank you for bringing that to our attention, we appreciate your feedback. Rest assured that we have updated this post to reflect accurate information.
Tati
Hi! I just want to clarify that the Lamy 2000 is not made of fiber glass. I don’t know where this urban myth came from but it keeps popping up. It’s made of Makrolon and that’s a polycarbonate. Sturdy and lightweight nevertheless.