Resin Namiki Falcon Vs Metal Pilot Falcon

[Rofl Copter]

I believe I have made up my mind to get a Falcon as my second pen, but I don't know whether to get the metal or the resin one. I far prefer a heavier, stronger metal pen if possible, but it is quite a bit ($100) more expensive and I don't know if it is worth the extra money, especially to a high schooler about to go to university. Does anyone have an opinion on the difference between the two models?

[kernando]

I'm not sure a new Namiki plastic Falcon is worthwhile for a college freshman when old pens were flexible.

 

[gr, typo]

Edited June 10, 2012 by kernando

[RMN]

As you mention, the Pilot version is metal, so has more weight.

 

The barrel is also slightly wider, allowing the use of the CON70 converter, which is really a pré. It holds a lot of ink, and pumps nicely. I also had no troubles with trapped air bubbles using this converter.

 

I would not want the plastic Namiki version myself (way too light) but am happy with my Pilot.

 

Only negative thing about the pen is the colour range. I have the red one, had a choice of one...

Would have chosen the black, but would like some other colours like dark blue.

 

D.ick

[82Greg]

I opted for the Pilot Falcon myself as I a) prefer heavier pens and have larger hands suitable for larger heavier pens. I opted for the Red, but nearly went with the brown. However, I also agree with the earlier post, the Pilot Falcons have a rather limited color range.

[Florenze]

I have both pens, and while there are some differences (already noted), both pens seem to deliver the same nib performance. The metal Falcon seems a bit easier to flex, but since these are really semi-flex nibs (IMHO) that doesn't make a huge difference in the amount of line variation you see.

 

BUT, I believe the metal Falcon now has an EF nib, and that may be important to you if you're doing Copperplate or Spencerian script. And it may well give an extra boost to the flexibility factor, in appearance if not actual performance. (appearance of the writing, that is)

 

I guess it really comes down to what you want to do with your Falcon, and what your preferences are re: pen weight, and appearance. Also, you can always get the Falcon nib modified by a nibmeister to add flex and a true EEEF needlepoint, too. These are all happy choices, though!

 

Also something to think about, is vintage flex---many many good choices there, and you can certainly find a nice, sturdy vintage flex pen to give you years of use. Again, just depends on what you're looking for.

 

Please let us know what you decide and how you like your pen!

[Giordana]

I used to have both. The metal one acquired a scratch on the lacquered layer. The other one had microscratches only discernible under light. Therefore, if the metal Falcon gets scratched, it'll be more noticeable. You might want to consider that too.

[zquilts]

I have the resin version (with a custom nibs.com nib) and it is one of three pens that I consider to be my favorite writers. I can write for long periods of time with no hand fatigue. I do have smaller hands and prefer somewhat lighter (though very light) pens. Good luck whatever pen you ultimately choose to invest in !

[Cerbeos]

+1 on the resin - I had my eye on a Falcon for some time, but honestly I couldn't ever see myself opting to spend the extra $$$s on the metal version.

[gizmoe]

I was browsing engelica's store on eBay and saw a metal Falcon with a redesigned body. Apparently Pilot got enough complaints that they redesigned the metal body to be lighter. I don't know if they're ever going to be exported, but for now, you can buy them from sellers like the one I mentioned. They're a bit pricey, though, going for nearly $250 dollars U.S..

Edited June 11, 2012 by gizmoe