Pilot F Vs Sf Nibs

[napalm]

Hello,

 

I am aware that the question "what differences are between a regular (let's say F nib) and its "soft" version (SF) has already been debated... I've read all the threads about it yet it's still not clear to me.

 

My understanding is that the "S" version is not at all intended for any kind of "flex" writing as we would try with a Falcon semi-flex nib. Instead, it's more about tactile feedback and a slightly different reaction of the nib / ink flow to your regular writing.

 

I'm eyeballing a Pilot 91 which I could get in either F or SF nib versions. My intention is "regular" writing (not any voluntary pressure modulation and flex).

 

Could anyone that has tried both F/SF (or M/SM or similar) explain me what kind of differences I may notice between the two versions, under the described use (regular writing)?

 

Thanks in advance!

Edited June 28, 2014 by napalm

[Scribblesoften]

The nib on my Justus is a soft fine. The nib on my 823 is a regular fine. The nibs and feeds are different sizes. I also have a soft fine Falcon. I cannot make an apples to apples comparison but i prefer the soft fine nibs. The 823 is very smooth but there is no give to the nib and all the lines at all angles are exactly the same. Ink flow is the same for all strokes. The soft fine gives a little more variation. There is some limited variety in line width and ink flow. This allows for a little shading making the writing look a bit more complex. Ink flow seems a bit more generous with the soft fine as well. In your place I know which nib I would purchase.

[napalm]

Using the Justus and writing "normally" i.e. with the intention of rather constant light touch - would the "S" setting give more variation than the "H" one?

[Betweenthelines]

For Pilot, the "hard" fines are springy, and the "soft" fines are semi-flexible. However, save for perhaps the Falcon, Pilot's feeds generally can't keep up with the level of flexibility possible with the soft nibs, so they are really meant for some very slight flex in your natural writing to induce a little line variation and shading of inks. For the fines, I definitely prefer the "soft" versions. The hard fines I've all tried have run pretty dry and have had inconsistent lines. The soft fines naturally run wetter because of their added flexibility. Plus they're more of a joy to use. I love the soft fines on both my 742 and metal falcon.

[discopig]

I've enjoyed Japanese SF nibs much more than regular F. They make writing a very bouncy and smooth experience and it adds some flair to your writing.

[Scribblesoften]

Using the Justus and writing "normally" i.e. with the intention of rather constant light touch - would the "S" setting give more variation than the "H" one?

Yes however, the Justus nib, at it's softest, is the same as a regular Pilot soft-fine. It is not a super flexible nib. It seems a bit firmer at the softest setting than a Falcon. I usually leave it in the "S" setting except for crosswords on newsprint. I like my Justus a lot but it is not the elusive modern wet noodle that some are seeking. Good luck in your search and I hope you end up with a pen you enjoy.

[Algester]

the F is a nail (not springy or probably it has I don't write in an underhand method to check) than the S the soft has some semi-flex capabilities its different on the Justus though but again Justus as a control for the nib may not be a good idea but again I wont suggest treating the soft nib like it was a full flex nib

when I bought my CH 91 it's a story on its own that resulted me in writing with F,SF,SM but I have the SM my brother has the SF currently dusting away not being used... <_< yes it's a story told in Japan... anyway the 14K F nib is a bit stiff than that of the SF again the SF has some flexy so I would assume so with the M the SM has some line variation but I wouldnt say its an asian sized M since it looks no different than my Lamy M nib, funny to be told an american was working on the hotel's front desk and he saw that I was carrying an Ito-ya paperbag and asked if he wanted to get a pen from me I said no lol... I think Ito-ya is quite known for pens in tokyo

Edited June 28, 2014 by Algester

[Betweenthelines]

the F is a nail (not springy or probably it has I don't write in an underhand method to check) than the S the soft has some semi-flex capabilities its different on the Justus though but again Justus as a control for the nib may not be a good idea but again I wont suggest treating the soft nib like it was a full flex nib

when I bought my CH 91 it's a story on its own that resulted me in writing with F,SF,SM but I have the SM my brother has the SF currently dusting away not being used... <_< yes it's a story told in Japan... anyway the 14K F nib is a bit stiff than that of the SF again the SF has some flexy so I would assume so with the M the SM has some line variation but I wouldnt say its an asian sized M since it looks no different than my Lamy M nib, funny to be told an american was working on the hotel's front desk and he saw that I was carrying an Ito-ya paperbag and asked if he wanted to get a pen from me I said no lol... I think Ito-ya is quite known for pens in tokyo

 

I have yet to encounter a Pilot gold nib that is a "nail". All of them have been springy for me.

[Beginnersmind0]

If you were going to have a nibmeister add flex to one of these nibs, what would be the best candidate. Im wondering if based upon your descriptions, might the hard nib have more potential springiness as opposed to squishiness?

[Honeybadgers]

the SF pilot will give you a little flex. Not a lot, but it'll put down a western M or B line with only modest pressure.