Steel vs Gold nibs

[RyanL27]

I hate to even bring this up as I know it's been hashed out many, many times. I've read the old posts about the steel/gold nib debate, and I'm wondering about the corrosiveness of steel nibs.

 

I know their performance can be debated - I personally think steel is just as good. The only reason I'd consider gold is if steel does have a corrosion problem. I know a lot of people aren't fans of trim rings on some Pels for their corrosiveness, so I worry about the nib even more. What's the deal? Is it something to worry about, or is it just one of those possibilities that doesn't really happen much. What about gold plate vs. unplated? It is something to worry about?

 

Reason I ask: my new Tortoise 400NN has inspired me to possibly pick up a modern 200/250/400 - they're so affordable and functional. I've found a killer price on an Amber 250 at Altman luggage, but for about the same I could get a nice 200 with a custom nib from Richard.

 

Thoughts?

 

edit: I can't spell much.

Edited February 18, 2006 by RyanL27

[woodwindmaster06]

I wouldn't worry about corrosiveness on the steel nibs: I have heard it takes a very very long time and it shouldn't matter.

 

Also I think with the nibs from Pelikan on the modern 200s with the steel, they haven't been around for the 100 years to see how well they hold up, so there is no definitive answer here. But I trust the gold plated steel nibs.

 

But of course there is nothing better than a Binderized Pelikan so I would get that if it were me.

 

Tim

[Kelly]

Go for the Binderized nib...at least it will write wickedly well for as long as you have it. I have a Binderized Pelikan (M215) and I'd be lost without it...and it's steel

[RyanL27]

Hi Kelly,

 

Which 215 do you have - Black or Black/Blue? I'm considering those as well (I've had two 215s ). The new all black one is pretty - but oddly more expensive than the blue/black.

 

Also, thanks for the info Tim. That's kind of how I feel about it - yes, steel corrodes, but it takes ages.

Edited February 18, 2006 by RyanL27

[woodwindmaster06]

Go to the Avalon Gallery for the new 215 in the black with the stripes that your talking about it is $89 just like the rest of the 215.

 

No corrolation to Avalon just a satisfyed customer.

 

Oh I just checked at Binders site, looks like its the same price. But anyway I think if I did get a 215 the newest black with the stripes would be mine, its just a few bucks.

 

 

Tim

[Kelly]

Hi Kelly,

 

Which 215 do you have - Black or Black/Blue? I'm considering those as well (I've had two 215s ). The new all black one is pretty - but oddly more expensive than the blue/black.

 

Also, thanks for the info Tim. That's kind of how I feel about it - yes, steel corrodes, but it takes ages.

Hi Ryan,

 

I have the blue/black 215 - it's a beauty. The blue is darker in person than the pictures that I've seen and I just like the contrast. It's got a 0.6mm Binder stub and it writes like a dream. Choose which one fits your sensibility...the new black and silver banded one is also pretty stunning

 

I just ordered a Bexley Sub SE red pearl from Richard this morning (with another stub!). I feel like I need a 12 Step Program! Hello. My name is Kelly, and I'm a FP-aholic

 

Best,

K

[OldGriz]

I can only speak for having 2 Pelikan 200s with steel nibs...

First if the price is the same get the Binderized Pelikan... I have a .8 stub italic that is the absolute best nib I have on any of my pens... once you write with one you won't want to go back... butter smooth with beautiful line variation and toning with Pelikan Brilliant Brown in the pen...

My other 200 has a fine steel nib that is also lovely to write with... it lays downs a sweet line that I personally feel is more of a med/fine that a true fine.. but it is perfect for my handwriting. I also have a OM steel nib that writes very nicely, but that is going up for sale soon.... nothing wrong with it, just not my cup of tea..

As for corrosion, I can't comment as I have had neither pen long enough to see any problems with the Noodlers or Pelikan inks I use in them.

[TMann]

...my new Tortoise 400NN has inspired me to possibly pick up a modern 200/250/400 - they're so affordable and functional.

Hey Ryan,

 

I am pleased to see that great minds think alike. After owning a couple of 600 series Pelikan's, I, too, have recently rediscovered the joy of using the smaller m200/400 pens. They are really the perfect size for my hands, (when posted) and they're affordable enough to be able to try out different colors, nibs styles, etc. I just purchased a black m215 from Richard B. It should be here early next week. Woo-hoo!

 

As to the differences between steel and gold nibs, my personal opinion is that my steel nibs will probably outlast me and the rest of the pen. I suspect that the increased susceptibility to corrosion is a theoretical, not a real-life problem, (at least in regards to the nib.) Furthermore, I actually like the stiffer, more predictable feel of a smooth steel nib, so when the choice arises, I usually go with the gold-plated steel varieties.

 

As always, everyone's preferences will vary.

 

Good luck with the nib selection!

 

TMann

[RyanL27]

Hey Tmann,

 

Okay same question: Blue/Black or all Black 215? I'm really pretty torn on this one.

 

You're right - we do think alike, great minds indeed. After concentrating mainly on vintage pens, I've decided that I really do like smaller pens. The 200 size is perfect, and the 215 has just enough extra weight to fell a little more substantial that its all-plastic counterpart.

 

So, I'm down to the 215 -now I just need to decide on color and nib grind Oh yeah, and sell a pen or two to pay for it

 

 

wowza, lots of edits today: just saw the answer to my question in your post, Ted. I'm anxious to hear what you think of the black 215. It's very beautiful. Please report back.

Edited February 18, 2006 by RyanL27