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Faber-Castell Basic Fountain Pen
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Faber-Castell Basic Fountain Pen
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Product Description
For those who prefer pens with some heft, the Faber-Castell BASIC is an absolute pleasure. The metal barrel lends satisfying weight to each stroke, while the grip section features horizontal grooves, soft-touch coating, and enough length to accommodate the big-mitted among us Read More
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keyboard_arrow_downKAPS1M0
378
Feb 27, 2016
I have the Carbon and I would like to share my experience with it.
It looks great and feels great in-hand. The manufacturing quality is superb.
In addition, Faber-Castell nibs have a reputation for being excellent. Unfortunately, mine is very, very, very dry. There are no spare nibs sold, despite the fact that the nib and feed are friction-fit in a screw-in housing. So if you want a replacement, you have to send it back (or buy another pen).
But the biggest disadvantage of this pen is its weight distribution. Simply put, it's back-heavy. I like to balance my pens on the first knuckle of my index finger when writing, but the Basic falls deep down in the webbing and stays parallel to my thumb.
You see, the grip is all plastic and lightweight but the barrel is metal. As a result, I sometimes feel awkward when I hold it. In comparison, the Pilot Metropolitan also has a plastic grip and metal body, but the centre of balance is approximately at the middle of the pen, which makes it feel way better.
Note that my hands (8 1/2 in, base to top of middle finger) and fingers (3 1/2 in, index finger) are larger and longer than average, so the balance problem will be even bigger for anyone with smaller hands. Here's a picture that I hope will demonstrate that this pen is back-heavy.
It looks great and feels great in-hand. The manufacturing quality is superb.
In addition, Faber-Castell nibs have a reputation for being excellent. Unfortunately, mine is very, very, very dry. There are no spare nibs sold, despite the fact that the nib and feed are friction-fit in a screw-in housing. So if you want a replacement, you have to send it back (or buy another pen).
But the biggest disadvantage of this pen is its weight distribution. Simply put, it's back-heavy. I like to balance my pens on the first knuckle of my index finger when writing, but the Basic falls deep down in the webbing and stays parallel to my thumb.
You see, the grip is all plastic and lightweight but the barrel is metal. As a result, I sometimes feel awkward when I hold it. In comparison, the Pilot Metropolitan also has a plastic grip and metal body, but the centre of balance is approximately at the middle of the pen, which makes it feel way better.
Note that my hands (8 1/2 in, base to top of middle finger) and fingers (3 1/2 in, index finger) are larger and longer than average, so the balance problem will be even bigger for anyone with smaller hands. Here's a picture that I hope will demonstrate that this pen is back-heavy.
KAPS1M0
378
Jan 25, 2019
@ladyluvw24 @DaddyDiBs @Qwervy Thanks for the tips guys. I've been absent from Massdrop for quite some time but I'm glad the FP community remains helpful :)
I've tried opening up the tines using brass sheets. Unfortunately, the F-C Basic nib is built really well, it's like the Hulk and the brass sheet is a puny human in Hulk's clenched fist. No chance of moving those tines. I'd need special equipment, but I don't have the time or the will to bother with a pen that would feel imbalanced anyway.
Huh, my original post was 3 years ago, which means I haven't used the Basic at all over these 3 years...
j-e-g
306
Apr 1, 2017
I see some confusion about the converters. I am wondering if the Basic will take an international long cartridge ? Or even the combi-converters with the two different end sizes ?
The pen looks long enough - just wondering if there is enough room in the barrel, both length and diameter for one to fit ? I see many positive reviews of the Basic and most all noted that the nib is excellent - Any one have feedback about the F-C Basic ? Thanks.
jsolar
71
Apr 4, 2017
I agree. This is a great price for the chrome options. I am actually getting one my self, in fine. Itll open up my loom to more writing as well, since the nibs can simply unscrew and swap. Once you get a few fountain pens you tend to lean towards the, must have more stage. So you will probably end up getting both in the end anyhow. :D
j-e-g
306
Apr 4, 2017
jsolarYou and @writerstephen are killing me here ! LOL In the end ... if it is a good writer... it's worth it... Now if I only had something worth writing about ;) You know the minute I buy one to try out... one I have been waiting for pops up ! Happens every time - :/
elimelendez
2201
Mar 25, 2016
The vendor informed us that the group's order was picked up and is on its way to our warehouse. Based on the tracking provided, the order is scheduled to arrive 4/1.
Sometimes shipments get delayed en route, but we will keep the group updated throughout the fulfillment process and notify you all if anything causes delay.
Thank you for your patience. Expect an update from us on 4/4 or sooner if something comes up.
If you have any questions, please visit our Help Center (https://massdrop.com/helpcenter).
Sometimes shipments get delayed en route, but we will keep the group updated throughout the fulfillment process and notify you all if anything causes delay.
Thank you for your patience. Expect an update from us on 4/4 or sooner if something comes up.
If you have any questions, please visit our Help Center (https://massdrop.com/helpcenter).
Jessem
11
Mar 28, 2016
elimelendezThis drop has been quite slow, fast to take money. Slow to fulfill :(
Yettobeimpressed
3
Mar 29, 2016
elimelendezI don't get what's happening here. As a first time purchaser this is a terrible first experience of massdr op. I have joined the drop, have a transaction receipt email and can see the transaction going out of my bank account yet my profile shows no transaction history... I now have to wait until you receive the delivery before you send to me which I am going to assume could take another couple weeks. I'd rather have paid full price and saved the hassle! I can understand that this process could take longer than a direct transaction with a supplier but this is just not good enough.
Mrclmind
0
Feb 27, 2016
I thought the idea of purchasing something through Massdrop was to get a better price. It looks like the best price is just the MSRP. Am I missing something?
Liz
1159
Feb 29, 2016
Here are the exact weights for each, with ink cartridges inside:
Chrome: 1.2 oz
Carbon: 0.94 oz
Leather: 0.96 oz
DBSS
217
Jul 14, 2016
Why sell a pen that requires a proprietary converter without at least the ability to add the converter to the order?
katerchen
271
Jul 25, 2016
DBSSWait ... are you sure this is a proprietary converter? I was hoping it was Standard International (of which I have a bunch in my drawer, but I'd be most unhappy if I'm forced to buy and lock myself into a proprietary one :/ )
phoenixsong
1055
Apr 28, 2018
For those who already own this pen, can you comment on the balance? Do you recommend using it posted or no, and how the weight difference of the differing models will affect it.
PS: Does Faber-Castell follow the Western or Japanese standards with regards to nib sizes? I already own an Italix in medium and a Pilot in fine, was thinking maybe an EF or F. Again, a shoutout to owners for your opinion :)
PS: Does Faber-Castell follow the Western or Japanese standards with regards to nib sizes? I already own an Italix in medium and a Pilot in fine, was thinking maybe an EF or F. Again, a shoutout to owners for your opinion :)
CalvinLimuel13
31
Jul 13, 2018
Oh yea, LOOM‘s section actually has a slight convex curve so it is thicker than the body, and BASIC is almost entirely flat but the rubber section is actually a tad thinner than the body. That’s probably why it feels fatiguing using my LOOM. Also, I have the Matte Gunmetal. The section has some groove to it but I don’t feel like it helps with the grip, so I might be selling it or giving it away.
JustFluxz
456
Jul 13, 2018
CalvinLimuel13yeah, I tried out my mom's when i gifted it to her, and I think it might feel just a tad more balanced in terms of the weight, but I definitely felt that the Basic was a lot more comfortable for me.
ravkesef
198
Jun 18, 2017
I received my pen within a reasonable time frame, and can say that I'm entirely satisfied with it. Unlike many pens, the EF nib is truly EXTRA fine, and would likely satisfy an accountant. It has an easy, comfortable grip, and I'm totally happy journaling with it. Great value for the money.
ravkesef
198
Sep 6, 2017
As a previous purchaser, permit me to say that this is one great fountain pen. I tend to go for Extra-Fine nibs, and this company knows what the term means. Most German nibs tend to be somewhat broader than their Japanese counterparts of the same name, but to Faber-Castell, Extra=Fine means exactly that. Imagine my delight when I first inked my pen and began writing. It laid down a line as fine as any I could ever wish, and if you're a lover of a real Extra-Fine nib, this is one great pen. I have no comment to make on the other nibs, since I've never used them, and perhaps someone with knowledge can offer an observation. And, as with anything Faber-Castell makes, this is truly excellent workmanship, a pen that will last you for years, and give you true delight every time you use it. It's comfortable in the hand, and the soft-touch feature is one of those right-on inventions. Right now I'm fighting down the temptation to purchase another one.
katerchen
271
Jul 25, 2016
OK. According to FPN you want a Schmidt K2 derivative. The most important feature here is the metal collar (or lack of in this case) that some converters have for reinforcement, but which also prevents them to go into a narrow section opening.
http://www.fountainpennetwork.com/forum/topic/310579-faber-castell-loom-converter/
http://www.fountainpennetwork.com/forum/topic/310579-faber-castell-loom-converter/
titrisol
14
Aug 18, 2016
I see what you mean!
I tested initially the fit in the nib section and not on the body... didn't even cross my mind!! duh!
There are small differences (2-3mm) between the cheap converters I have; the taller ones I have don't work. It seems like a mini converter like the Monteverde mini or the Kaweco will be the best option Goulet pens and Pen Chalet have those for less than $5 http://www.gouletpens.com/mv31072/p/MV31072 https://www.penchalet.com/pen_accessories/fountain_pen_converters/monteverde_mini_ink_fountain_pen_converter.html?gclid=CK_tsMiLy84CFQMtaQod35cKpQ
There are small differences (2-3mm) between the cheap converters I have; the taller ones I have don't work. It seems like a mini converter like the Monteverde mini or the Kaweco will be the best option Goulet pens and Pen Chalet have those for less than $5 http://www.gouletpens.com/mv31072/p/MV31072 https://www.penchalet.com/pen_accessories/fountain_pen_converters/monteverde_mini_ink_fountain_pen_converter.html?gclid=CK_tsMiLy84CFQMtaQod35cKpQ
titrisol
14
Aug 23, 2016
K, I started looking at the length of chinese converters I had.
They are all over the place, with lengths between 64 and 73mm
The shorter ones fit fine, and the ones above 68mm hit a spring at the top of the barrel
Diameter-wise there is a few that are perfect, and some that are just too tight.
It is a hit or miss
elimelendez
2201
Apr 5, 2016
The group's bulk order arrived at our warehouse and almost all of the individual orders were shipped out. If you are part of this first batch, you will receive an email with tracking info by the end of day tomorrow.
Upon taking inventory of the units received, our team was made aware of a backorder affecting a handful of Faber-Castell Basic Fountain pens. We already contacted the vendor and they are currently working on shipping the last units to our warehouse. The moment we receive confirmation regarding the shipping schedule from the vendor, we will provide you all with updated information.
We understand that the additional wait time is undesirable. If you would prefer to cancel your order, please contact Community Support using the “Contact Support” button in your transactions page (massdrop.com/transactions).
Thanks for your patience and expect an update from us on 4/11 or sooner if something comes up.
If you have any questions, please visit our Help Center (massdrop.com/helpcenter).
Upon taking inventory of the units received, our team was made aware of a backorder affecting a handful of Faber-Castell Basic Fountain pens. We already contacted the vendor and they are currently working on shipping the last units to our warehouse. The moment we receive confirmation regarding the shipping schedule from the vendor, we will provide you all with updated information.
We understand that the additional wait time is undesirable. If you would prefer to cancel your order, please contact Community Support using the “Contact Support” button in your transactions page (massdrop.com/transactions).
Thanks for your patience and expect an update from us on 4/11 or sooner if something comes up.
If you have any questions, please visit our Help Center (massdrop.com/helpcenter).
LadyC
Apr 7, 2016
elimelendez1. Thanks for the update
2. How do we know if we are in the 'first round'
3. This seems to be a trend on mass drop - two mass drops I have been a part of and twice this same delay or option to cancel etc --The sad thing is I really want this pen and it's a good price. --- If nothing is updated by Monday/Tuesday I will have to cancel in an abundance of caution.
Jessem
11
Apr 8, 2016
elimelendezAfter several mass drop purchases, this is insanity. With no personal attempt to contact or pacify rather a series of exceedingly vague, and increasingly distant dates of delivery. Im sorry but I will be writing up a negative review of massdrop. As owner of three various G+ groups and writer for several various survival/prepping/deal sites all I can say is, sad. Truly. Especially considering you can purchase the same pen at your local office supply store for barely a few dollars more. The time alone is worth the difference in cost.
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