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*Note - sorry if this should be in a different sub-forum. Mods, please feel free to move it if you feel necessary. :-) I’m pretty much ready to pull the trigger on an Al Sport, so I decided to do a few tests this weekend to see just how much writing I can get out of a standard international cartridge. And, since I’m such a generous person, I figured I would share my results with anyone else who might be curious. For my first data point I grabbed a no-name black cartridge that I have and stuck it in my only pen that will take standard internationals (from now on, I’m going to use S.I.C. = standard international cartridge), my Nemosine Singularity with a Goulet 1.5 mm stub. I started making lines of loops until I used up all the ink. This test was done on my standard for ink reviews - Staples 24 lb bright white inkjet paper. I know the picture above might be hard to decipher with so many angles, but I got exactly 7.5 pages of loops out of the cartridge (1 page = 1 side of a piece of paper). I would like to have stopped there, but too many years to training in the scientific process does not allow me to make claims based on a single trial. If I had enough time and patience I would run through a myriad of a combinations of ink and paper, but I have other things to do, so I tried one further run. This time I refilled the same cart with Pelikan Edelstein Aventurine, popped it back into the pen, and put the nib to some A4 Miquelruis notebook paper. Instead of just doing loops, I wanted to do some writing more true to real life. I chose one of my favorite novels and began transcribing it, which took quite a bit longer than I expected. This time the ink ran out just at the bottom of page 9. I also found that the ink flow was much wetter and more consistent than I usually get using the converter with this pen, which was a nice change. Based on the limited statistics of my N=2 experiment, I would estimate that a S.I.C. will write for 7-10 pages. Obviously, this will vary depending on how much pressure you write with, your nib size, the paper absorbency, if you are drawing as well as writing, etc. I’m impressed and I would say that this has convinced me that I could use a pen that takes only S.I.C.’s and have it not be too cumbersome to use in my daily life. Especially since refilling carts is not that hard, and I’m going to experiment today with a way to reseal them so that I can have an extra with me in any color I want.

I found this amongst an eBay lot, and decided to clean it up to use it. It puts down a nice fine/medium line. It could be anything from a Skripset to an Imperial, so I wanted to see what people thought this pen actually is. I'm leaning towards a Skripset, because the cartridge is a very tight fit in the barrel and it doesn't look like a Sheaffer converter would fit (if they made one for this pen). Also - I assume this Triumph nib should not be straightened out? It writes very smooth for it being a very firm nib. Thanks in advance.

Hello, I am seriously thinking of adding a Kaweco Sport xf to my stash of pens, and I had a concern about the fact that you can only use a cartridge with it (the little bladder they sell seems no improvement to me). I have recently discovered the joys of using a converter in my various pens (piston/slider, not the bladder type), and found that the usual problems of skipping, ink drying out, or the ink coming out too fast at times, and otherwise inconsistent performance when half full or less, are greatly reduced, seem to be mostly a thing of the past. My question is whether the Kaweco Sport suffers from the same cartridge issues as other brands, as described above, I do realize there is some variation in how bad it can get from pen to pen. Even the bladders on my Hero 329 and Pilot 78g don't seem to hold a candle to what happens when you can push the extra air out of the pen with a converter (if I could, I would replace the bladder on my Hero 329 pens with a converter, in all 4 of them!). Hopefully my question is not as clear as mud. Any and all personal opinions and observations appreciated.

I am a bit confused. Are these the same size cartridges or is it they messed up with words? - One says "International Size" AND athe other one only says "Standard". No International anywhere... One is G302BK, the other G306BK I would very much appreciate information so I can stock on cartridges until I get a fine fountain pen that I can use with a converter. Is there a place where the length of the different sizes of cartridges is specified? I have seen lots of videos on how to use cartridges and converters, but I cannot find a single video where I could see someone measuring cartridges or explain the differences. I am solely interested on the "standard sizes", not proprietary cartidges. Once I can understand the sizes I can place an order. Thank you. I know I will have some answers. Thanks in advance!

Hi guys! I haven't been around much lately, hope everyone's doing well :-) Tonight I picked up the little cutie below from an outdoor vintage stuff market, it's used and fairly grody. I'm really keen on using it, but before I start cleaning it I would like to identify it properly to make it easier to get accurate info on cleaning and such. But the furthest I got on IDing it is that it's a Delta Dolcevita (and only because it'ss helpfully written right on the cap...pen ID, ure doing it rong ). I found a blog post that says there are over 60 versions, and I would love to know more about which specific one it is. The nib looks like it might have some more numbers on it, but my loupe doesn't seem to be strong enough to read them - it's a 15x. Sorry for all the reflections in the picture, I know it could be better but this one's the first genuinely clear and sharp one in a dozen attempts - I'm just so klutzy tonight, I can't seem to get it right lol. I'm hoping this is enough, failing that I'll take another stab at it tomorrow in daylight. What do you guys think?

A few weeks ago, I bought myself a pen, roller ball, and fountain pen set at Staples. I found out later that is the Sigma Genesis. It takes a short cartridge with room in the barrel for another. What I wondering, and haven't been able to find out, is whether or not there is a converter available for this pen or whether I'm doomed to using cartridges?

Vanness Pen now has a website. 75 years as brick and mortar- now on the web at vanness1938.com. We are adding merchandise weekly. Free shipping on US orders over $35.00 Want a personalized pen? Just call us- we can engrave on many pens!

Hello all! I was just wondering what you all thought of refilling fountain pens by filling the converter alone, then inserting it into the pen, then twisting it to push a drop through the nib block? I ask because most of my nibs have tons of grooves on them which makes it difficult to wash out, then the extra ink dries and then is nearly impossible to get out. Thank you!

I am a new to fountain pen and am waiting on a Pilot Metropolitan to arrive. I went ahead and bought cartrdges, and a converter. If I wanted to delve into bottled inks, what would you recommend? I've read that certain inks require more and more frequent maintenance for your pen. Not that that's bad, but maybe not the first choice for a beginner. I both write and sketch, so that might be a factor. Any suggestions on brands of bottled inks and colors for a beginner to try?

Is there a place in NYC that sells Pilot cartridge converters? I don't feel like ordering online for something so little.

Hi all - I have 2 pens that I only use cartridges in. One is a Cross Compact and the other is a Bexley Jitterbug. Both pens work great until I'm down to about 1/4 to 1/2 ink in the cartridge. Then all the ink left in the cartrdige will leak into the cap of the pen. Fortunately I haven't ruined any clothes but I am concerned. I read in one post where a change in temperature could cause this. What else can cause this to happen? I love both these pens but I am very concerned about carrying them.

Okay, technically it's just $44.04. But I bet it would climb with the postage, particularly if you're not in Japan. It's made by Pilot in collab with another brand, presumably of leather goods since it's all leather (anyone knowledgeable about Japanese brands care to weigh in?) As far as I can tell it closes with a magnetic flap, and those look like Pilot cartridges in the piccy, so Int'l standard might be a poor fit. Bah! Then it won't work for me, tsk tsk. (yep, it's that, and NOT the fact that my regular pen budget tops out at $30 each lol)

Hello, I recently decided to work on my penmanship and bought the inexpensive Parker Vector, with which I am thus far pleased. I do not care for the ink accompanying the pen and would love a recommendation on another ink that is ... black, opaque, thick, less watery, quick drying, waterproof. I'm sure you all have your preferences and certainly know exactly what would work for me, so please, if you would, share. Thanks in advance.

I have been buying euro/standard cartridges from "majus74" on eBay for years. Several other cartridge sizes/formats are available, so do some exploring on the 'seller's other items' link to find what you need. The ink is of high quality, fresh, and available in many colours. They say "acid-free", "archive quality". OK. I say "smudge-proof" and "fast drying". Never a disappointment after hundreds of cartridges. Several other sizes/formats are available, so do some exploring on the 'seller's other items' link. Each listing typically provides a comprehensive list of compatible pens. If for no other reason, this provides a comprehensive x-reference for those oft-repeated questions about which cartridge fits which pen. I have settled on purple (refer to Mr. Ferrari on Wikipedia for an interesting historical tidbit). Rotring, Montblanc, Jinhao, Stypen, etc. My business partner uses the green exclusively and is also extremely satisfied. Montblanc and a few others. The customer service is excellent. Shipping is fast and secure. I was even asked once regarding the temperature and altitude of the destination so appropriate steps could be taken in preparing the shipment. Never one failure. Totally dependable. Highly recommended. The cartridges I receive are sourced in Germany. The first several shipments I received in earlier years were shipped from Poland. However, I believe a family member has relocated to the States (evidenced by recent eBay listings). It has been fun to see their business grow. Price? I think you'll find it satisfactory, to say the least. PS: this listing is for blue but check the other product listings for this vendor to find what you need... or contact them directly. http://www.ebay.com/itm/80-German-Fountain-Pen-Ink-Cartridges-refills-in-BLUE-for-your-Montblanc-pen-/380761751758?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item58a72b40ce Again, the vendor is "majus74" In closing, I find a cartridge system to be preferable when I am carrying my pens. So simple and convenient. My pen case always has a few spares and I have yet to ever run out of ink. Best regards, Blah blah no affiliation blah happy customer blah

I recently won a lot of two Pelikan fountain pens on ebay. One was supposed to be an M200, turned out to be an M150. The other is a mystery to me. I tried ruettinger-web.de, but couldn't find it listed. Here are a few pictures as well as some general notes. http://i1348.photobucket.com/albums/p740/johnsi02/IMG_20130627_224640_369_zpsdc7fc92b.jpghttp://i1348.photobucket.com/albums/p740/johnsi02/IMG_20130627_224808_044_zps968abe6b.jpghttp://i1348.photobucket.com/albums/p740/johnsi02/IMG_20130627_224846_652_zps475f00a7.jpg It is a cartridge filler. The cap screws on. The nib is steel, and has the Pelikan imprint, but not size marking that I can find. Body appears to be metal. Feed is marked with a 9 on the bottom side. The other pen is the M150 for size reference. Thanks John

I just wonder what methods people use to fill ink. I assume most of you use bottled ink and some sort of converter, and here is going to be the big question: Do I have to dip my whole nib inside a bottle of ink to draw up like 2/3 of the converter's capacity? Or could I removed the converter and fill it completely without having a messy nib? The second way is how I usually do it, but keep in mind that I use the same ink in the same pen all the time. It draws up more ink and is less messier. The problem is that I never heard of anyone doing it like this, is there an obvious risk that I'm overlooking?

Hey Guys, I am looking at grabbing a couple of Boheme's as I can get them for a decent price. What I am unsure on though is the cartridge compatibility. While I love the Montblanc colours, the cart prices here are stupid (8 carts for $18.... No thanks). So I am wondering is Small international Carts work in the Boheme's? I have a bunch of Kaweco and J Herbin small carts that would be great if I could use in my Boheme. Also, I have heard that the nib mechanisim can get loose and the nibs starts retracting while writing. is this a large issue with the Boheme's? How about the mechinism freezing up?

Howdy from the high desert. I am a returning fountain pen user with a couple of nice pens and lots of questions. I actually began with a pen and inkwell in 2nd grade at St. Rose of Lima in Chula Vista, CA. Before the end of the 1st semester we were using Schaeffer cartridge fountain pens. I used one all through Junior High School and High School in the '60s. I now have 4 fountain pens, a wooden pen of unknown provenance, a sterling silver Parker, a titanium Cross, and a Libelle - probably some kind of translucent green plastic. I use cartridges in all but the Libelle. Because I have no idea what kind of cartridges might work with it. It was a gift from my now deceased mother and came from her collection with no instructions or accouterments. The Libelle is a fairly fat-bodies pen with a screw on cap. It has a screw-in/out reservoir, which I presume may be removed like the other pens. It is my favorite writing instrument, so I have used about 1/2 bottle of ink in the past month and gotten a fair amount on my fingers, especially as the bottle empties. I have been unable to find any information on the pen online (maintenance/operating instructions etc.) Can anyone tell me if the refillable reservoir is replaceable with cartridges?Perhaps, suggest what type of cartridge might fit in the Libelle pen? Is there any particular method to be used in removing the reservoir?- I really don't want to do any damage to the instrument! I'd rather continue with the permanently stained digits. Thanks,Fran McHughWinslow, AZ

Hi, i just purchased a pack of Waterman pink rose (large) cartridge. It was ordered from an online shop. I think something is just not right. But as this is my first Waterman cartridge, i need help. The pack that i received seems to be almost half empty. Hence a picture of your new cartridge will be highly appreciated. As i will be able to question the seller. And it was not purchased from eBay. Rather a reputed online portal in India. Regards, Chayan

Hi folks. Long time lurker here. I recently acquired the Hero pen shown below. In the past, some of my Hero pens have taken either Parker (mostly) or international standard sized ink cartridges. But for whatever reason, the pen below seems to have a size that seems cartridge incompatible. Does this mean I can only use "regular" ink with my pen? The number on the pen says it's Hero 386-1. I have included pictures of other cartridges for size comparison. Any thoughts/pointers would be great!