Nib
Description[edit]
A nib is the writing tip of most styles of fountain pens, and can refer to elements that are exchangeable with a pen and feed system, or even integrated into the feed or pen barrel (such as the Pilot Varsity or Pilot Myu).
Anatomy[edit]
Properties[edit]
Tip type[edit]
Nib tips can be classified into two categories, which then have their own properties and categories. The main two branches are broad and pointed.
With broad nibs, the tines are usually stiffer, wider, and flat. Line variation when writing comes more from the writing angle and direction. The tines of Pointed nibs come down into a thin point, and are generally more flexible due to different properties (see below). Line variations on pointed nibs come from flexibility of the tines, direction, speed, and pressure while writing.
Sizes[edit]
Nibs are categorized into relative sizes to denote how fine or broad of a line of ink can be laid down. The sizing is relative, because the finalized line of ink is also dependent on properties of the paper or writing surface, viscosity and type of ink, as well as pressure applied to the pen (see The Pen Addict 1).
There is a misalignment between the sizes denoted by European manufacturers and their Asian counterparts.
Tipping[edit]
Plating[edit]
Flexibility[edit]
The flexibility of a nib is influenced by the nib's material, tipping, tines, and even customized grinds and age. This flexibility gives a variation on the ink line drawn based on speed, direction, and pressure.