Is it true that the Ductus and Epoch 364 fountain pens share the same nib? I have a small to medium size hand and prefer a grip slimmer than that of an 800. How do the grips of these two pens compare? If the nibs are different, how do they compare? Any information--especially for EF nibs-- is appreciated!

I would say no. It's possible that Pelikan took the Epoch gold nib and added a crimp to the front of the nib to create a flat spot on top and then pulled more of the nib out of the section, but I'm not seeing a match. My Epoch nib curves around the feed with no flat spots and is fairly short.

As far as width of body is concerned, if you're comparing to an M800 the Epoch is maybe 1/4 inch shorter and about 1.5 mm narrower. It is closer to an M600 and clearly larger than an M400. I'm looking at these three pens right now. I would say that the reason for owning an Epoch with a gold nib is the distinctive design. IMO any of the more expensive Epochs are better looking than the Ductus.

That said, my Epoch (which has the gray leather-like finish on the body with brushed silver cap and gold trim) had problems with the spring that pushes the cartridge into the nib assembly and had to go back to Chartpak because the nib would skip or not start. They replaced the nib but it still is not a gliding smooth writer--which is truly sad because the pen looks fantastic and of all the pens I own (other than a Levenger True Writer of all things) has curiously generated the most oohs and ahhs from coworkers.

I should also mention that the nib is very stiff because of the nib wrapping tightly around the sides of the feed and the nib being somewhat short. If I was doing this again I would buy a medium even though I generally prefer fines in European pens.

Because I was having issues with this pen I had no compunction about snipping off the end of the tray thing inside that holds cartridges so I could use the longest possible cartridges and increase flow. I just hold the nib assembly upright and snap a cartridge up into it then screw on the end cap that encases the cartridge holder.

I can see this has turned into a mini review of the Epoch. On the other hand I don't see much written about this segment of the Pelikan universe and despite everything I said I have to say that if you get a copy with a good nib I believe you will like it. The size is good, the weight is middle of the road and it balances well posted or unposted. Plus it's an interesting shape and design direction for Pelikan outside of its conservative Souveran line.