Starwalker Nib Replacement

[etzbseder]

Hello. I use my MontBlanc Starwalker on a regular basis and have been wanting a Flex Oblique Fine nib and am trying to figure out if it is worth trying to get a different nib from MB or just a different pen. Any ideas????

[dneal]

Not sure what you're going for, and it would help to know what result you're trying to acheive.

 

Obliques (when they were more common) usually came in M and up. The purpose of an oblique is to compensate for the angle the pen is held at. I say this because some think that an oblique gives line variation. It doesn't. The confusion comes from the fact that many broader nibs do give line variation, with the down stroke being broader than the cross stroke; and since most obliques are in M or B (or even broader) people think it's the "oblique-ness" that's giving the variation.

 

Flex is a different story, and the truth is that they're just not made anymore. Many nibs do have slight flex (offering a little variation with pressure), but they're nothing like a vintage flex nib or steel dip pen's flex. Montblanc doesn't make flex nibs, although they can be springy and flex slightly.

 

You have a couple of options. Montblanc (I believe) still makes obliques for the European market, and you should be able to get one in M or B. It might offer a little flex. You could have that (or your current nib) modified by someone like John Mottishaw for flex and width, in addition to having the tip ground to an oblique angle.

[etzbseder]

I am looking to get more variation in the stroke and would like to stay with a MB nib. In general I like a finer point at time so I don't want an OB or OBB nib. I've thought about getting an older Meisterstuk, but then I would likely rarely use my starwalker fountain pen. I would love it if I could get a two tone MB nib on my starwalker, but don't think that's a reality.

[jar]

I doubt you can find a Montblanc nib that offers flex in the Starwalker line. Your best choice might be searching for an older 3xx Montblanc student pen that came with a flex nib.

[EclecticCollector]

I doubt you can find a Montblanc nib that offers flex in the Starwalker line. Your best choice might be searching for an older 3xx Montblanc student pen that came with a flex nib.

Another issue with installing a true flex nib on the Starwalker, assuming it was possible, is that the feed is unlikely to be able to supply enough ink for continuous writing. My Starwalker is the driest pen I own, though it's possible that mine is not the norm.

[dneal]

For line variation, have you tried a stub or cursive italic?

[etzbseder]

 

I have not tried any yet. I want to keep at least with the professionalism of the starwalker. I wouldn't want to use a real old student pen. I have seen some that I just don't think look nice enough.

[jar]

That's what is so interesting. I cannot imagine using a Starwalker but often take one of my old 2xx and 3xx entry and student level pens as my regular use fountain pen. If you want flex nibs though you are almost limited to the Student sector Montblancs since the professional and luxury level pens didn't offer flex nibs.

[EclecticCollector]

On the third hand, I use my Starwalker and my 24 equally (and frequently). Both are great pens, and lately I've been thinking of picking up a 225.

[Immoteus]

FME, the starwalker is a rather dry pen and it is not suitable for a flex nib. If maintaining appearances is a must as previously mentioned, might I suggest a flex modified 146. IIRC, the nib should be 14k and handle flex with ease.