Need a recommendation...

[nathanb]

Well, I am moving back to China. I have lived there for a number of years for work. I have heard that you can get decent, inexpensive fountain pens there. I thought this would be a great way to test the waters and learn how to use one.

What would you recommend I pick up? Which brand and model? What should I look out for to make sure I am getting a quality pen?

I would probably buy it from a store and not off the street, that way I would know it was a genuine and not a fake.

[PozzSka]

I only have experience with Jinhao, Hero, and Baoer. I've never had a problem with them, though they can be inconsistent (some broads are broader than others, same pen being wet, dry, etc.) but, every one that I have used has worked.

Also, I've only bought them off ebay...not sure where to get them in China.

[Wil]

Is this a permanent move or a temporary one- Tjis would help as to which pen is available as well as to what inks- you may need to purchase them prior to leaving and also possibly stock up on inks (all to avoid taxes, shipping, and possible scarcity of a favourite colour/brand)

[Altair]

Buy some noodlers inks they are usa made and very good quality. Antiforging qualities.
I have some hero 616 pens on the way. I hear they are good when you get the real ones.

[nathanb]

I only have experience with Jinhao, Hero, and Baoer. I've never had a problem with them, though they can be inconsistent (some broads are broader than others, same pen being wet, dry, etc.) but, every one that I have used has worked.

Also, I've only bought them off ebay...not sure where to get them in China.

Thanks Nathan! I will be on the lookout for those three brands. I don't think it will be a problem finding them. I have seen them in the big markets before over there but at that time had no interest in them.

I will be there in a few days and will probably get one a week or so after arriving. I will report back once I have one. In the meantime I will have to read up on how to use a fountain pen.