Attached below is an image of a writing sample with Noodler's Apache Sunset, and below that, the review proper. Regarding the image, "lorem ipsum" is a nonsense language used by printers to showcase a font/color (ie: it takes focus away from content and puts it on aesthetics). The water test was performed by submerging and agitating a sample swatch of the given ink in reverse osmosis water for thirty seconds, then letting it drip dry.

A key has been added, written on Clairefontaine paper, with a number of different inks for reference.

Standard Disclaimer: Image provided only to give a general sense of the color. The vibrance and nuance are typically lost when an ink is digitized.



Review

When I write a review, I first focus on color, and award an ink 0 to 100 based upon that alone, separate from other considerations. I then deduct points from the color score for defects (ie: lack of flow, creep, etc), to arrive at an overall score.

It has come to my attention that a small subset of FPN members take issue with my review format, particularly the numeric rating system, and the deductions. I have opted for a point scale so that it is easy for someone to see, at a glance, how I feel about a given ink. The deductions, if present, are the result of my personal experience with this ink, in the pen noted.

Above all, everyone must understand that reviews are highly subjective, and are the result of a given user's opinion, and their own conception of what is and is not important in an ink.

Color

By and large, I don't much care for warm hues. Apache Sunset, though, is in a league of its own. This ink really is reminiscent of sunset. The shading is unparalleled.

Color Score = 95

Deductions

Apache Sunset is a great shade, but is useful to me only as an editing ink. It comes in 90ml bottles, and for me to use 90ml, it would take about a decade. It's like having a Lambo in the garage: nice to look at, but doesn't get much use.
-5 for practicality

Apache Sunset was among the worst performers on the water test.
-4

Overall Score = 86

This is one of my favorite Noodler's colors, especially in a flexible nib. Nathan outdid himself with this ink. My supply will last a while as well because I don't use my flexible nibs often.

Thanks for the review.

This is a lovely colour and one of the first Noodler's I bought. However, I've only used it in a dip-pen.

KCat, when you say you are using yours in a flex nib, would you share what pen and which nib for some comparison?

Thanks for the terrific review!

I've got it in an Esterbrook 9128 EF nib. Most of these nibs are only semi-flex but I lucked into one that is truly sexy flexy.

Much appreciate your reply. As a pen collector, user without portfolio, I am not certain I have any pens with flex. I will have to do some research.

Many thanks.

Does anyone know of a solid dip pen that could be used as a casual writer? I ask because I'd like to use this as an editing ink, but don't want to go through the trouble of filling and cleaning a pen, when I know I'm not going to use anywhere near a full refill in one editing session.

Not looking to spend a fortune on something I'd only use once and a while, but don't mind paying for quality.

I don't know of one in particular, but you might check out John Neal's site, and penandink's site--both have quite a few good dip pen holders and Neal a large selection of nibs.

Here's Neal's webpage http://www.johnnealbooks.com/