Lamy ABC, Nexx & Smile

[holgalee]

I have two Lamy Safaris but the grip gets onto my nerves when I write fast, but I like the XF & F nibs. So I'm eyeing the ABC, Nexx and Smile pens. How do the pens compare in terms of weight/balance and grip (size, comfort, material)? Are there any 'sharp' parts that that may scratch other fountain pens if I carry them in a pencil case?

[holgalee]

Also wondering how the pens fare as eyedroppers. Are there any holes in the barrel and are the threads long enough? Thanks.

[mrwh1609]

I have a Lamy Smile, which I have re-named the Lamy Mock-Me, because that's what my colleagues do when they see that wacky cap.

 

But I'm willing to take the abuse to use the Smile. Like you, I found the sharp angles of my Safari's section annoying, even though it's a very useful writer. The Smile/Nexx also has a triangular grip, but the angles are larger and softer, helped further by the rubber grip. I am sure that its specs are available on-line, but it strikes me as a tad shorter and considerably lighter than the Safari, especially when unposted. The aluminum barrel has been wonderfully durable so far. The Smile's cap is soft plastic and the light body has rounded edges, so I can't imagine that one of these would ding your other pens. In short, it's been a great substitute for/complement to the Safari for me. In fact I'd like to get a Nexx with that snazzy, more-age-appropriate new cap.

 

I have two Lamy Safaris but the grip gets onto my nerves when I write fast, but I like the XF & F nibs. So I'm eyeing the ABC, Nexx and Smile pens. How do the pens compare in terms of weight/balance and grip (size, comfort, material)? Are there any 'sharp' parts that that may scratch other fountain pens if I carry them in a pencil case?

 

[holgalee]

Thanks, mrwh1609, for the valuable information. Thought I should gather some 'intelligence' before going to the shops. Is the grip sticky-rubbery or more like plastic?

 

The Lamy Smile does indeed have a whacky cap, but you have a smooth writing pen and your colleagues are stuck with ballpoints and rollerballs! So you get the last laugh.

[saintsimon]

Thanks, mrwh1609, for the valuable information. Thought I should gather some 'intelligence' before going to the shops. Is the grip sticky-rubbery or more like plastic?

The nexx/smile grip is more rubbery, not a hard plastic like the Safari has.

[mrwh1609]

Thanks, mrwh1609, for the valuable information. Thought I should gather some 'intelligence' before going to the shops. Is the grip sticky-rubbery or more like plastic?

The nexx/smile grip is more rubbery, not a hard plastic like the Safari has.

 

Right. It's not as thick and soft as on the stainless Studio, but it's definitely rubber--not like the Safari.

 

If you end up buying one, let us know what you think.

 

[HenryLouis]

The Lamy ABC does not post... something to consider.

[ericthered2004]

I have a Lamy Smile, which I have re-named the Lamy Mock-Me, because that's what my colleagues do when they see that wacky cap.

 

But I'm willing to take the abuse to use the Smile. Like you, I found the sharp angles of my Safari's section annoying, even though it's a very useful writer. The Smile/Nexx also has a triangular grip, but the angles are larger and softer, helped further by the rubber grip. I am sure that its specs are available on-line, but it strikes me as a tad shorter and considerably lighter than the Safari, especially when unposted. The aluminum barrel has been wonderfully durable so far. The Smile's cap is soft plastic and the light body has rounded edges, so I can't imagine that one of these would ding your other pens. In short, it's been a great substitute for/complement to the Safari for me. In fact I'd like to get a Nexx with that snazzy, more-age-appropriate new cap.

 

I have two Lamy Safaris but the grip gets onto my nerves when I write fast, but I like the XF & F nibs. So I'm eyeing the ABC, Nexx and Smile pens. How do the pens compare in terms of weight/balance and grip (size, comfort, material)? Are there any 'sharp' parts that that may scratch other fountain pens if I carry them in a pencil case?

 

 

You can also just remove the naff rings from the Smile cam, if you have them. They come off very easily.

 

Regards

eric

 

[holgalee]

The Lamy ABC does not post... something to consider.

 

That's alright as I have small hands and usually don't post my pens.

[holgalee]

Thanks, mrwh1609 and saintsimon, for the clarifications. I won't be going to the shops very soon, but will try to remember to update you guys.

[holgalee]

Oh yeah, the ABC looks cool because of it's wood exterior, though I'm concerned that the section may be too small. Yeap, I really have to try all the pens to find out.