Hi Brian and Drew...my name is Joe and I just found this video on the Lamy 2000. Brian, I'm sure you don't remember me, but when you did your first "Thanks-give-away" a few years ago, I was the winner of the Lamy 2000 in the random drawing. I've been using this pen every day since I won it and I have to say, that of all of the fountain pens I own, this is without a doubt my favorite "daily driver". I've never had any issues with ink flow or skipping. I highly recommend this pen to anyone that is interested in a solid pen with a bit of "character". Always enjoy the videos and doing business with your company! All the best!
This morning I have ordered a Lamy 2000, from Goulet Pens of course, and I'm super pumped up to receive it. Big praise for Jessica in your team for being so friendly, professional and basically just helping me get to this point. It is one of my grail pens and is by far the most expensive pen I have bought (the next highest value bought from new are a pair of Studios). Obviously I will be terrified to even breathe on it incorrectly when it arrives, but I will conquer my fear, give it a drink and put it through its paces. This video was instrumental in my purchase, forewarning me about the sweet spot sensitivity, and saves me a whole world of frustration ahead of time.
I am shocked that mention of these issues has been prevalent enough to merit a 'debunking' video; thank you all the same, its an excellent video. I have never had issues with my 2000 past or presently.
I own a Lamy 2000 in & another in . The is my go-to pen, & was purchased from Goulet. Both are excellent, & I've never had any issues such as the ones discussed in the video. In my (admittedly limited) experience ALL fountain pens have a writing angle at which they perform best, & most all become smoother & smoother over time as the nibs break in. So far as the Lamy 2000 in particular is concerned, I consider it the most pen for the (relatively) least money you're *ever* liable to find. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone. Just a wonderful, reliable, & pleasant daily writing experience.
Just received my Lamy 2000 in fine from you guys. I love it. Despite this video, I requested that you guys ink it up before you sent it out. I couldn't be more pleased with it. Also, thank Drew for the kind note and writing sample he included with my order. Can't wait to do business with you fine people again - awesome customer service!
Missed the Lamy 2000 that I sold 15+ years ago so much that when a good deal came on a used one I snatched it up. Inked it up over the weekend and carrying it daily. I enjoy it most in the EF.
I wish I’d seen this vid 15 years ago when I bought my2000 here in Europe. But a super happy ending; Verena Unger at LAMY in Heidelberg took charge, had engineers really work the nib over, and now of the hundred or so pens the 2000 is THE go-to. It’s definitely in my will David
Everything said here is exactly what I've noticed with my Lamy 2k...find that sweet spot and it's one of the smoothest pens ever! Excellent video Brian and Drew!
I was apprehensive about the sweet spot issue before getting my L2K but in my opinion, the issue is overblown. My L2K is my work-horse pen and I have had no problems with it. As a matter of fact, when signing slick credit card receipts, I have several pens that didn't want to write. Since I always carry my L2K, I have pulled it out and signed the receipts with no issues. Can I deliberately rotate it and make it stop writing? Of course, but in normal writing day in and day out, my L2K is one of my least finicky pens. Get one. You won't regret it.
As a lefty under too, I can't say I've ever come across a fountain pen with a sweet spot. For me, they all write just as well - from my 40s parker 51s, to a new Pelikan, to the Parker Jotter. Some just write wetter than others. All very good, just different.
I'm a right hander training myself to become a leftie (health reasons) and most of my many Safaris, AL-stars and Vistas have LH nibs. I can't really feel much difference from the excellent, smooth and reliable stock Lamy medium. I'll be getting a 2000 soon and left-handing it will be a concern. I'm going to improve my LH consistency, grip and positioning with the cheaper mass-market pens before I let my currently erratic left hand loose on a 2000.
My 2000 EF came with a misaligned nib. Lamy doesn't care and directed me to send it (at my cost) to someone near by. I can't afford that, so it sat in a box and collected dust for several months. Luckily, I took it to a wonderful store called Laywine's in Toronto and their nib guy worked on it for about 45 minutes and got it working well enough. They say it still isn't quite right. I don't doubt that this is a rare case, but I got burned and Lamy's customer care was anything but caring.
I think that they made the nib this way in order to give it a little "artificial" line variation when you're writing, you rotate it slightly in some letters so that it becomes a little less wet and thus having some line variation effect.
"Aww heck, yeah...love it!" Great job to Drew! I'm a lefty underwriter and I love my Lamy 2000 broad! Honestly, in my limited experience, it has been the best out of box (not into tuning yet) writing experience so far. It has been the smoothest pen I've ever written with. I just bought a second.
Just got some pens from you guys and love the level of customer service you provide. Even if it's just for peace of mind, I appreciate the pen testing on request. Thanks!
The Lamy 2K was my first gold nib pen and it didn't write the best when I first got it. I spread the tines ever so slightly and now it writes like a dream. I now know what "smooth like butter" actually feels like. Fantastic pen.
Interesting, even though a Lamy 2000 is not in my budget. It was cool seeing another Goulet Pens employee in the video. You've worked hard to build up a body of knowledge in your team. I'd like to see you make more use of it in your videos.
I can see me getting a 2000 very soon, maybe as early as next payday, so it is fantastically helpful to hear and see these experiences before I spend my money. This will be by far my most expensive pen (the next highest is an entry level Parker Sonnet, some Parker 51s and, for Lamy specifically, a Studio). These aspects do not discourage me from making my purchase - if anything it's the reverse - helping to emphasise the 2000 as a precision instrument requiring respectful and careful handling. When I want to mash my fist clumsily into the page and skewer it with some steel, I'll use a Wing Sung or Jinhao. When I want to take a little more care and perhaps when I'm willing to act my 53 years of age, that may be time to reach for a 2000.
I was ready to take my Lamy 2000 back but now I understand more about it and will be keeping it.. I love the pen and now I think I will love it even more. This video was VERY helpful!! Thank you!
I have an Macralon L2K, a Macralon L2K, and a Stainless L2K. The and wrote fine out of the box. The nib tines were not aligned at all, and I had to work on it quite a bit to get them aligned properly. Once the tines were aligned, there was no smooth "sweet spot". Once I polished the nib it wrote fine - still has the "sweet spot", but it writes OK. Otherwise, they have been good pens.
I didn't buy mine from you, but I had to send mine back because of leaking from the nib - when it came back, it was much better, no issues for years now
I'm not sure which camp I'm on: A) A sweet spot is fine as an experienced writer should be able to adapt his/her writing style to fit the pen. Each pen is designed differently, and so we should respect whoever designed it. Worst comes to worst, the nib can be re-ground to something better. B) An expensive, quality pen should be good in almost every objective aspect. Paying that much for a pen with a small sweet spot is disappointing. I'm honestly in camp B. I have Sailors, and they have the same problem (and I'd go with camp A here), but the main reason I'm in camp B here is because of the overall idea of the L2k in the first place - very simple but a good writer. It was designed based on function.
An experienced writer buys pens that don't require adjusting his or her style. The L2K was NOT designed for function, it's was designed for form. The function is lousy. The awards it gets have been for form. I have Sailor pens, too, and NONE of them have the same problem. The Lamy sweet spot is TINY., and completely unforgiving.
My perspective on pen reviews is this: you can critique the pen body and the nib-feed complex separately. The L2k is a great pen in terms of ergonomics and design but the nib I got was pretty eh. The reason I critique them separately is because you can always have the nib and writing experience fixed/changed/otherwise modified, but that body's not going anywhere.
I never had problems with any lamy pen I ever owned. It might be that I'm just so used to them because, as a German, I learned to write with a lamy abc and used safaris the rest of my school career. The only critic I have is that their EF nib is not fine enough, I usually wrote my lamys up side down before I switched to pilot and twisbi. Twisbi EF is incredible, like writing with a needle. 👍🏻
That has been my complaint. The 2k EF isn't anywhere near as fine as my Alstar or Safari. Just got the 2k yesterday though. I'm hoping I just have too heavy of a hand with it. Going to keep working with it for sure.
Despite the sweet spot, this is my grail pen. It has stuff no other pen has. The unique Bauhaus inspired look, piston filler, shows ink capacity; this pen seems to be made for me. And if sweet spots really were an issue, I would have stuck with rollerballs.
Funny, my Lamy 2000 EF just got here 2 days ago and I tried to see where this "sweet spot" problem was. Never found it. Mine didn't even have a sweet spot, I rotated the pen around just keep finding the same buttery smoothness. The only thing was that the line is wider in some angle compared to others, but there's never a nib angle or position where the flow was disrupted whatsoever. My Pilot Custom 74 in my opinion is the one that needs a bit of a "breaking into" when it comes to angle and rotation.
Apparently this video was made for me. I've had my 2000 with an EF nib for six or eight weeks and have thought almost every day about sending it in for a nib replacement. Skipping, hard starting, inconsistent flow, and then.... it writes like a dream line after line. Yes, there is a sweet spot that is relatively small compared to every other pen I've owned, but to be honest, I'm not convinced that is the whole issue. I think there is something in the design that despite it being a so-called classic, could be easily fixed by a company with the expertise and experience of Lamy.
I agree, but I think BECAUSE its a classic, they will not fix it. They want to keep it the same, for all the customers who want the original 1966 icon.
I'm glad this video popped up in my recommendations. For a while I've been considering buying one of these, but I hate temperamental pens. With cheaper pens I expect to tune and tinker with the nibs, but not with a pen in this price range. I'll stick with Chinese pens till I can afford a Nakaya.
Lamy is the only European pen company I never had any issues with. Their QC is great. It would be a shame if all the fountain pen nibs will become round blobs, just because people who grew up on ballpoint pens can't be bothered to learn to write with fountain pens.
The only reason fountain pens exist is because lazy losers couldnt be bothered to learn to dip the damn metal nib pen every half page. The only reason metal nib pens existed is because lazy losers could be bothered to learn to use a damn ostrich quill.
+Edgar Valencia There is one flaw in your logic. A fountain pen offers all the advantages in writing of a metal dip pen or a quill pen, as in varying line thicknesses, with much less of the drawbacks (portability is a good example). However a ballpoint pen does not have the writing advantages of a fountain pen, what it gains in practicality it looses in writing ability.
I think the Lamy 2000 is an amazing pen but I do think there is still a quality issue in some. I bought 2 Lamy 2000s at the same time (one makrolon and one stainless steel). My EF makrolon writes like a dream. I can still take the pen out of the sweet spot and ink still runs… however, My stainless steel Medium has been a hard starter from the minute I opened the box. I’ve tried everything to find the sweet spot but no ink runs out and I know I can’t keep pressing down to get ink so it’s off to the nibmeister… I’d contact Lamy but I rather pay $35-45 for my pen to be returned to me within a week than wait forever. my friend also got the stainless Lamy 2000 and he also had problems with his as I do mines. It’s a shame because the finer one is so silky smooth but the medium has been so frustrating. I think we can’t expect every pen to be perfect because things do happen but it is disheartening to ink up a $320 pen and find it frustrating
I purchased two Lamy 2000s at the same time, one a medium nib, and the other a fine. The quality control issue I ran into, with only one of the pens, is that it began to leak from the barrel very soon after purchase. When you remove the cap, you can see two spring-loaded pins that help to keep the cap in place when the pen is closed. There is actually a seam that runs completely around the barrel of the pen along the same line as these pins, and it is from this seam that the leak developed; again, only in only one of the pens. Both pens received the same amount of use and the same care. I was pretty bummed that the pen went south on me, and that it went south very shortly after purchase.
Would you say this pen is better for people who write in more of a stiff block style versus cursive? I’m new to fountain pens. Love Lamy! Got myself the Lamy Studio Rollerball for my purse! :)
I've had issues with the Lamy 2000 grip staining. I have tried cleaning out the cap, flushing a few drops back into the bottle after refilling, etc. And it still stains the grip.
I’m not really sure what people were expecting, you can’t even use a regular FP if you constantly rotate it while writing. That’s just a FP problem. It always writes best if you keep the same part of the nib on the paper
Does anybody know which nib-width the pen in the video has? Looks good for the dotted paper and I am currently unsure of which to pick. Thanks in advance!
I bought a Lamy 2000 medium a few weeks ago. The ink consumption is ridiculously low for how think the line width is. I generally take long notes and it has never disappointed me once. It's always wet, the sweet spot is not hard to find at all. I'd say it's too slippery with the ink I'm using: TWSBI black. A shoutout to TWSBI as well. It's beautiful, it's a dense well lubricated black ink.
+The Goulet Pen Company Understood Brian. I am still looking for my ideal every day writer. It's just so many pens it is quite overwhelming. I took my time so I don't make a mistake.
@@Symphing12 are you sure?? I have the L2000 oblique Medium and I don’t think twisting this pen is very forgiving on the ink flow. This is not a problem at all for me but I think it could be for others
I'm loving my L2k. I've noticed that it seems to write better with a wetter ink, such as Kon Peki than it did when I had Black Swan in Australian Roses. Sadly, I don't like Kon Peki so much and I'll give BSAR another try once I've finished using up all the KP.
Wow! Thanks for this. I have two Lamy 2000 pens and I always figured that it was a QC problem. I never knew about the sweet spot. Going now to take my 2000s out of mothballs! Can't wait to use them again! Thanks again!
Sorry this is so late to comment, but I’ve been wanting a secondary Lamy in EF or F nib. But I’m torn between it and a Pilot 912 with Waverly nib. Recommendations perhaps, please? Which should I go with? I’m a lefty.
A tool should adjust to you, not the other way round. I am going to skip this pen now that its pretty much that lamy is intentionally making the "sweet spot" small and not QC issues.
Fair enough, it's not a pen for everyone. The sweet spot honestly doesn't bother me in the least, so it's going to be an issue for some and not for others. -Brian
But with an italic there's a payoff, nice line variation. The payoff for dealing with the small sweetspot on the lamy is?? Everything has it's pros and cons. Sugarcoating a downside isn't helpful.
there is a stubbish characteristic to the nib. The sweet spot is maybe 15% smaller than that of a standard fountain pen nib. I found no issues with either my medium or fine nibbed lamy 2000.
So I just purchased this pen a few days ago, undoubtedly one of the smoothest and most interesting pens i've bought. But unlike the other fountain pens that I have, it does not write under it's own weight, is that normal? Cuz every other pen requires literally no pressure to write, but this one i have to press down regardless of the "sweet spot".
Hmmm, I haven't seen that problem before, my two 2000s definitely write on their own weight. Does it write fine without skipping or flow issues normally? The tines may be pinching in slightly cutting the ink flow just a bit. Looking at it with a loupe could help diagnose. Even a thorough cleaning could help remove any debris that may be in the nib as well. - Colin
@@Gouletpens Hey Colin, thanks a ton for your tip, as it turns out, you were right about the pinching, I cleaned it thoroughly and ever so slightly pressed the nib against my thumb nail, and now it works unbelievably good. Thanks again..
I did order one of these in a Medium nib, after being persuaded that maybe this sweet spot issue was being blown out of proportion. I will be returning this pen. I was surprised at how much being in the very small sweet spot affects how the pen feels. If you are out of it, the pen may still write, but it feels labored. Thought it might be fine as I love my Vanishing Points which also have small nibs. But those maintain a typical round tip and this Lamy has the “rounded square” design. Not for me, unfortunately.
Can anyone recommend a Fountain pen with a nice broad wet italic(not stub), But something with a little more of a traditional body (that excludes the Pilot parallel) and something other than the lamy line up, the al star, joy. safari etc. Because I have a Sheaffer No nonsense that my father gave to me and its from the 80's and I love everything about this pen but, it's seen some better days I have tried everything to try and clean the nib unit and the feed but I still contiually have flow issues; it will often have a hard time starting and with eventually run dry. But if it doesn't run completely dry then it turns the ink that I'm using into a much lighter color than before and I'm a huge fan of highly saturated blues and burgundy's so it kills the color. Any suggestions?
+FREQUENCYZX11 It's rare for any pen company to make a true (crisp) italic, usually they're too scratchy for the average fountain pen user. The Aurora Ipsilon is what I'd point you to, they have the crispest italic around. It's going to run you $100 though, a bit more than a Parallel or Lamy. As for your ink, you could go with something more saturated, Noodler's has a slew of really saturated blues and burgundys. Noodler's 54th Massachusetts, Navy, and Blue Black. Noodler's Burgundy, Black Swan in Australian Roses, and Red Black. -Brian Goulet
I do love my LAMY 2000, but I have a couple of issues with it. I am a nitpicker, and when I feel the area where the nib will screw onto the handle, the seam is slightly uneven, so not quite as seamless as I would like. It is not something that has impaired its functionality, but considering that they advertise a seamless design, I was a little disappointed. Anyone else have this issue, or did I just get unlucky?
I face a similar issue with my Cross Century II medalist fountain pen. Does it have a sweet spot too? Can you please do a video that shows and demonstrates this on that pen?
Great video. I have to take care to hold my Lamy 2000 at the right angle, but it writes so well that it is worth the effort. In fact, I love my 2000 so much it is an effort for me to use any other pen. I buy from Goulet pens because if there is any quality problem they will quickly take care of things.
It definitely has a bit of a learning curve when it comes to finding that "sweet spot" on the Lamy 2000, but it's totally worth it once you do! - Colin
I believe any on who passes on this pen because of the tipping shape is really losing out. It's worth a try and trip to nibmeister or a few minutes of your own adjustment. Killer value and design!
I like broad nibs and the Lamy ones all have a slight “squareness” which makes them a little like writing with a stub - just a little - I guess you either like that or not, it does give a slight natural line variation. The short nib means there is very little compensating flexibility. I guess if it seems to be fighting back then it isn’t the pen for you but, for me, that hint of stubbiness adds character which I like without the, greater, discipline of an actual stub....
I have the same issue with my Aurora Archivi Storici fountain pen, you have to work with the pen and keep the sweet spot, sometimes you let go and the pen won't write. I maybe wrong but I think its due to the short nib and the way its built and the Aurora and Lamy 2000 are almost identical in nib shape.
I'll have to keep the Lamy 2K in mind. I like the range of nib options. I had a similar learning curve with my old Vanishing Point and assorted italic pens. If you loosen your grip a bit and lighten up the pressure, the nib settles into place on its own.
I'm a lefty. Love the pen. I even have taken it apart to clean (not recommended by the manufacturer), and it was very easy to do and get back to top writing. Simple, clean, easy. Buy a 2000.
May i ask how exactly you like to write? Im a lefty too and think about buyinh this pen. Im an overwriter and im wondering if this will interfere with the pens sweet spot. Thanks in advance :)
@@jensmetzler2033, I actually write with an under hand style. I used to ride with an overhand style, but found I used to smudge a lot. I find it helps to keep cleaner in my writing that way.
It’s great that ya’ll will test a pen before shipping it. Wish I’d seen this before ordering the Nemosine Singularity. Had 2 back to back give me trouble. Will try a 3rd time with them next month (it’s “the charm, right?), but have Drew try it out and will even pay for the ink sample to go in it, to make sure it’s trouble free. [will be the 0.6mm stub].
As lefthanded hook writer I've never had flow issues. The M nib writes super smooth, however to the few people I've lent my pen they all have some sort of flow issue.
How do you decide which nib size to pick on which pen model? Best for that model? Best for your writing style? Whatever you don't have yet on other pens? All of the above?
I think all of those factors come into play. I tend to go with writing style most frequently, which is stub nibs. That said, I used to be an EF kind of guy so I opted for stub nibs because I didn't have it and now here I am. - Colin
+p880pad I'm still a college student, slowly saving up. Thinking of getting a nice pen when I graduate. What would you suggest, given a few options of Visconti, Nakaya, Platinum, Sailor? I like nibs in the Fine to Medium range.
+Jason Tay Real quick question what would be your maximum price point? because if your looking at the top end of the spectrum i would say go for the Sailor king of pen. its about $700ish from japan that's a little more on the extreme end of things but I only recommend it because that is what I'm buying my self for my second semester present for my Junior year. (in like 2 days) but what i would also recommend is the Pilot Falcon $144 in resin and $249 in full metal, it has an amazing 14k gold nib and maybe if your just trying to impress you could also go for a Jinhao 159. The replica of the famous Mont Blanc 149 (Mont Blanc's flagship pen $935) for about $12.50 writes well has a good capacity and anyone beyond the fountain pen realm would probably think that its a pretty expensive pen. But that pen is for larger hands as it is about 14+ mm in diameter and weighs roughly 50G's. But to address Another company that you listed you could also get a sailor 1911 they sell for about $150 depending where you buy it. From what I've heard they are outstanding pens,
FREQUENCYZX11 Hmm I see. I guess my maximum price point would be around $800 to $1k max. The Pilot Falcon, or Custom 912 FA nib looks really good to me and I've been looking at it for a while. I do happen to own a JinHao 159, but the nib was too broad for me so I'm thinking of getting replacement nibs. I took a look at some of the Nakaya Urushi pens which are so awesome, but frankly I'm not sure if they would be practical EDC pens. Sailor KOP looks pretty cool too. I wonder if my local retailer has samples available for trying out. Which KOP are you getting?
+Jason Tay if I could have any one of them I wanted I would be getting the realo the one with the vacuum filler buuuuut it was a limited edition and they no longer make them. so I'm buying the normal ebonite KOP. because I can't get over how gorgeous the simplicity of the ebonite version is. also on a side note. just a personal opinion I went and tried a Mont Blanc 149 and was so disappointed. it was this monolith of a pen, a masterpiece . a work of art . until I picked it up.... it was so lightweight and feather like that it didn't feel substantial at all in the hand. compared to the heft of the 159. the "precious resin" construction made it feel almost like a toy. plus the fact that the KOP is $700 vs $935 and you get so many more options for things like nib options, body materials accent bands etc. but sadly I don't have a local retailer with a testable KOP so if you do happen to find one do tell me how it was .
+Jason Tay If you are writing a lot, and just want to bring a lot to paper, consider a (mechanical/manual) typewriter. yes I am serious, just because they were around for a long time, doesn't mean that they cant be useful in modern times. A high-end typewriter which has been professionally reconditioned/serviced will cost you about 150 to 500 dollars, heavily depending on what particular brand and model you choose, and what condition it is in. That may seem like a lot of money for something "obsolete". but even fountain pens have been around forever, even longer then typewriters, so think about that. With the technology we have available to day, technically, they are also "obsolete". But what's obsolete or not is subjective and completely up to you. The brands I would recommend are mainly German machines, depending on what style of typewriter you want, a Portable, ultra portable or standard (office). In general, ultra portables are great for, who would have thought, for portability, they are like the laptops of typewriter's. But, just like a laptop, they generally only provide the basic functions and will not feel as good to type on. Something like a Set-tabulator, adjustable paper support, touch selector or 3 layer colour-selector is rarely found on ultra portables. Portable typewriters are the most popular, because they are a great compromise between functionality, typing feel and portability. Many high-end portables are fully featured, just like the big standard or office machines, and generally provide a fairly comfortable typing feel. They usually come with a case, though, some bigger and heavier "portables", you are probably better off leaving them on your desk. Standard, or office machines are big, stationary and very heavy machines, intended for use in a business, or at home. Because of the greater leverage, they provide the "best", or lightest and quickest typing action. They usually, if its a high end model, come with a lot of features and a wider carriage, even though most of that tends to be rather unnecessary for a private person. For the portables, ERIKA and OLYMPIA are generally very nice machines, there are also some very good Smith Corona's, and Hermes machines. Particular models I would recommend are the ERIKA 10, OLYMPIA SM 3, 4 and 9, ERIKA 5 TAB, ERIKA Model M, HERMES 3000, Smith Corona SIlent, Sterling and Silent Super. All best-sellers in their day and still remain the all time favourites today. Some machines, like the ones from Europe like ERIKA, OLYMPIA and HERMES will be a lot more hard to find and more expensive depending on where you are located, your best bet would probably be to buy from Ebay.DE, the German Ebay site, even though the shipping will be expensive, you will probably still spend less in total. Especially the ERIKA's are very hard to find and expensive in the states, but they are also very highly regarded. Even though I would say, If you like the style, the best all-round typewriter remains the Smith Crorona Silent Super, but they are rarely to be found for sale in mint condition. But they are plenty and inexpensive, and if you are lucky, they even work. The German ans Swiss machines will last you longer though. Be ware of how they are shipped tho, typewriter's where not designed to be shipped. Just ask me if you have any more questions, I can probably help you out.
Glad others have smooth-writing Lamy 2000s, that is not my experience. Mine starts slow and upstrokes nearly disappear no matter how I hold the pen. I sent it to Lamy in Texas and they were very prompt in getting it back to me within a week. It's nominally better after they adjusted the nib but the problem is still there. I've owned and used dozens of fountain pens and this is the ONLY one that behaves this way. Very disappointed.
Is there any ADVANTAGE to the 2000's nib tip shape? It seems like something they should update in the design, since it doesn't have any advantages over a more spherical nib tip.
When angled correctly, it offers a really smooth writing experience. Overall, it's more of a learning curve than an issue, and not a steep one at that. I have two 2000s and are by far the best writers in my collection. - Colin
The Lamy 2000 with a fine nib was my first gold-nibbed pen, and I've had no problems whatsoever with it. I don't think I have a lot of rotation in my hand when I write, which probably helps. But I agree with what you guy said here. You hear a lot about problems with the nib, and really it's just adapting to how it writes (if you don't happen to luck out and have a great experience with it from the jump, like I did).
It took me about 30 minutes to adapt to the Lamy 2000 when I first wrote with it 4 years ago, since then it's been smooth sailing. I think it's just different for some than others. I'm glad you took right to it, Sam! -Brian
It took me about 30 minutes to adapt to the Lamy 2000 when I first wrote with it 4 years ago, since then it's been smooth sailing. I think it's just different for some than others. I'm glad you took right to it, Sam! -Brian
Thanks for the video! This is very useful as I've always wanted one of these pens but haven't heard of the issues. It actually has put me off getting one but that's the beauty of this hobby, plenty of choice!
I am impressed with your pens, already bought from you folks. I just started buying fountain pens and ink, and they are so fun to learn about. Just last week I gave my 15 year old grandson several pens, and a journal. He loved them, and says he will try to keep a journal. I keep a journal for 37 years now, using Ball Pens, or Computer pens and EverNote, but I am having more fun writing with fountain pens. I enjoy using a large cigar shaped fountain pen, but am having a hard time finding one that has a screw on to post. Do you have any suggestions? Thanks PrepperDino
The "sweet spot" was a deal breaker for me. I owned one in the late 1990's and returned it to FPH. I was sick of having to think and reorient my pen every time I put it down on paper. The skipping was especially intolerable when it occurred when writing my signature. The Bauhaus form communicates that it's a "workhorse" pen but the need to conform to the pen and the need to consciously orient the pen goes against this distinction. IMO a restored Parker 51 is a true workhorse. Even the Lamy Safari is more of a workhorse pen. The Lamy 2000 certainly isn't.
It's definitely a learning curve and not for everyone. It can be frustrating to write with, but there's plenty of people within my office that use it on a daily basis that says its worth working through. To each their own! - Colin
Its easier to just take care of a pen that always writes... Than to always take care to write in a "perfect" way so your pen is robust enough to not require much care.
Definitely the finer the nib, the more you may notice it. Less tipping material, so the sweet spot is more apparent. I have a broad LAMY 2000 and rarely notice this. - Colin
They should mention moving your hand across the page as you write as opposed to wring an entire line by moving your hand the minimum of times necessary to write the line.
FFS - it's got a round barrel. If you have the nib slightly off, then adjust your grip. This happens with many many pens. It's more about the writer's technique, that's why some have no issues with any pen, and some do. The nibs on a couple of my vintage pens do this occasionally. Someone else can pick it up and never have a problem. It ain't the pen.
Question for Q&A: I love the video discussing the lamy 2000 "quality control" with Drew Brown! You always say for $150 you can't go wrong with a Pilot Custom 74 (in blue, of course) or a lamy 2000. I was wondering since the Pilot Custom 74 doesn't have a "sweet spot issue" per se, would this be a safer pen to go for for that "next level pen"?
I have both those pens and the Lamy was love at first write but the 74 was not. They're both broad but I love how smooth and wet the lamy is whereas the 74 is drier and finer.
The question is as follows. Regardless if there really isnt a issue with the pen, if this many people have a problem using it then is the pen really all that great? I'd make the argument that it isnt an amazing pen if a ton of people cant use it in the same manner they use EVERY OTHER pen
I consider it a learning curve more than anything. It takes time to develop & understand the sweet spot and the nuances that entails, not everyone wants to do that (Which is completely understandable for a $100+ pen). Those that do, really enjoy the pen, so I think that's why it's still regarded as a great gold-nib option. - Colin
One Montbanc fountain pen I have has a wide sweet spot. It writes very well at quite a wrong angle. However, I cannot say anything general about Montblanc.
BRYAN MENTIONED RACQUETBALL! ok i overenjoyed that, i've been an RB athlete until college and it's not a very popular sport, good to know Bryan is well cultured lol Nice video, very informative!!
Unfortunately it seems that their quality control IS horrible. I recently received Lamy 2000 that had a crack in the feed body part straight out of the box. Lamyshop sent me a new one and also the new one had exactly same kind of crack! They insisted that its not normal and offered to send third one, but I rejected it cause there is probably a faulty batch of 2000's in the market. The crack is not easy to see, but if you unscrew the feed part, remove the metal ring and then look the rim against the light, its easy to see. It's not only cosmetic problem since it could lead to ink to leak. Not something you would expect from German brand.
I think the key is going to be practice. Sounds odd but all pens are different in various ways and you need to write with a particular pen for a while to get a feel for this and adapt your writing to how the pen functions. Not every pen will work for you right away but if you like a particular pen, feel it's comfortable, and want to use it then I suggest practice. Adjust your posture, hand position etc and eventually it will become natural. Not everyone wants to do this and for them there is always a ballpoint or roller ball pen lol. I kid of course.
Yeah, I prefer to call it a learning curve rather than a 'sweet spot'. It just takes time to adapt. Now is that something people want in a $150 pen? Not necessarily, but it becomes a really amazing writer if you get used to it. - Colin
What a strange choice by Lamy to use this fussy and specific grind shape. Seems like they could, if they wanted, just polish it more roundly and make a more usable pen? Are they being stubborn leaving them this way?
Considering the pen has been in production since 1966, Lamy likely prefers to keep the original design. I respect that. I've three 2000's and enjoy them, but they're likely not for everyone. Using my 2000's (and those with italic nibs) has taught me not to rotate pens which makes every pen I use perform better and that's a good thing!
Glennhkc ive come to the same conclusion that they wont change it because its iconic. People are buying it for looks, and for its fame. Not for how well it writes.
Just a little suggestion to Lamy 2000 users who find a bit of difficulty with the nib’s “sweet spot.” The Oblique Medium (OM), Oblique Broad (OB), and Oblique Double Broad (OBB) all write beautifully and do not seem nearly as critical as the traditional nibs regarding the “sweet spot.”
Crazy because my Lamy 2000 I've had some of the LEAST issues with writing. Maybe the hood is subconsciously training my brain to hold it in the correct position. My other other pen that is this flawless with writing is my Vanishing Point and that's probably because the clip means I can't hold it wrong.
While I didn't buy mine from Goulet Pen, I did face a tiny bit skipping when I was doing figure of 8 strokes. But in my case it was a slight tine misalignment, and after some light tugging, it now writes nice, wet and smooth, even when I rotated it slightly. Pretty amazing pen.
+Jason Tay Awesome! With most pens that skip like this on the figure 8, it's usually a tine misalignment. I'm glad it was a quick fix for you :) -Brian Goulet
Dear Colin/ Brain/ Drew, so I got my Lamy 2k a month or so ago, and I love it--but I need some help with the ink window. Warning: this might be a nooby question: but how am I supposed to use it correctly? Do I lay the pen down horizontally? or do I hold it up vertically (nib up or down)? And is it supposed to tell me how much ink there is...or is it more of a binary "You have ink" vs "You don't have ink" type thing?
It's definitely more of a binary thing like you mentioned. As you're writing, you should be able to look at it. If it's colored in, you have ink. If not, or only a little bit, might be time to fill it back up. - Colin
I think so! I had previously helped out with the "Heat setting" video, but I think this was the first one where I was on screen for the whole thing. - Drew
This was very interesting even though I don't have a Lamy 2000 yet. I think it's great that you are explaining what the Sweet Spot is on this nib but you present it as if it was a drawback of this particular nib design. Does't the shape of the tip also have advantages? e.g. is it easier to find an maintain the optimal writing angle than with a nib that has a merely round tipping?
I wouldn't say the tipping is a particular advantage, other than it tends to hold up well over time. I know lots of people who've used them for decades and they write like the day they got them. -Brian
I have tried to like this pen, but it is impossible. The best small nib (IMO) is the Pilot Vanishing Point. No sweet spot, no too wet or too dry, no scratchy issues with the Pilot.
The Lamy 2000 definitely gives a thicker line than other pens. I'd go with the Extra Fine, but do check out our Nib Nook to see the line variation in the different sizes (www.gouletpens.com/nib-nook). - Colin
Hi Brian and Drew...my name is Joe and I just found this video on the Lamy 2000. Brian, I'm sure you don't remember me, but when you did your first "Thanks-give-away" a few years ago, I was the winner of the Lamy 2000 in the random drawing. I've been using this pen every day since I won it and I have to say, that of all of the fountain pens I own, this is without a doubt my favorite "daily driver". I've never had any issues with ink flow or skipping. I highly recommend this pen to anyone that is interested in a solid pen with a bit of "character". Always enjoy the videos and doing business with your company! All the best!
This morning I have ordered a Lamy 2000, from Goulet Pens of course, and I'm super pumped up to receive it. Big praise for Jessica in your team for being so friendly, professional and basically just helping me get to this point. It is one of my grail pens and is by far the most expensive pen I have bought (the next highest value bought from new are a pair of Studios). Obviously I will be terrified to even breathe on it incorrectly when it arrives, but I will conquer my fear, give it a drink and put it through its paces. This video was instrumental in my purchase, forewarning me about the sweet spot sensitivity, and saves me a whole world of frustration ahead of time.
Three years later, Jessica helped me with my order of the same pen. She's still amazing to work with!
I am shocked that mention of these issues has been prevalent enough to merit a 'debunking' video; thank you all the same, its an excellent video. I have never had issues with my 2000 past or presently.
Still the best pen I've ever owned. Noodler's Ink proof (El Lawrence), hard use, never a hard start, always happy to write, best pen ever.
I own a Lamy 2000 in & another in . The is my go-to pen, & was purchased from Goulet. Both are excellent, & I've never had any issues such as the ones discussed in the video. In my (admittedly limited) experience ALL fountain pens have a writing angle at which they perform best, & most all become smoother & smoother over time as the nibs break in. So far as the Lamy 2000 in particular is concerned, I consider it the most pen for the (relatively) least money you're *ever* liable to find. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone. Just a wonderful, reliable, & pleasant daily writing experience.
Just received my Lamy 2000 in fine from you guys. I love it. Despite this video, I requested that you guys ink it up before you sent it out. I couldn't be more pleased with it. Also, thank Drew for the kind note and writing sample he included with my order. Can't wait to do business with you fine people again - awesome customer service!
+Cameron Sale I'm glad to hear it. Drew is kind of the Lamy 2000 wizard, so you were in good hands! - Colin
Missed the Lamy 2000 that I sold 15+ years ago so much that when a good deal came on a used one I snatched it up. Inked it up over the weekend and carrying it daily. I enjoy it most in the EF.
I wish I’d seen this vid 15 years ago when I bought my2000 here in Europe. But a super happy ending; Verena Unger at LAMY in Heidelberg took charge, had engineers really work the nib over, and now of the hundred or so pens the 2000 is THE go-to. It’s definitely in my will
David
Everything said here is exactly what I've noticed with my Lamy 2k...find that sweet spot and it's one of the smoothest pens ever! Excellent video Brian and Drew!
I was apprehensive about the sweet spot issue before getting my L2K but in my opinion, the issue is overblown. My L2K is my work-horse pen and I have had no problems with it. As a matter of fact, when signing slick credit card receipts, I have several pens that didn't want to write. Since I always carry my L2K, I have pulled it out and signed the receipts with no issues. Can I deliberately rotate it and make it stop writing? Of course, but in normal writing day in and day out, my L2K is one of my least finicky pens. Get one. You won't regret it.
Leftie underwriter here: recently got a Lamy 2000 F nib and haven't fallen out of the sweet spot yet, love it!
Michelle van den Oever thanks! You actually answered a question i had in my mind. Glad i read comment section
As a lefty under too, I can't say I've ever come across a fountain pen with a sweet spot. For me, they all write just as well - from my 40s parker 51s, to a new Pelikan, to the Parker Jotter. Some just write wetter than others. All very good, just different.
I'm a right hander training myself to become a leftie (health reasons) and most of my many Safaris, AL-stars and Vistas have LH nibs. I can't really feel much difference from the excellent, smooth and reliable stock Lamy medium. I'll be getting a 2000 soon and left-handing it will be a concern. I'm going to improve my LH consistency, grip and positioning with the cheaper mass-market pens before I let my currently erratic left hand loose on a 2000.
My 2000 EF came with a misaligned nib. Lamy doesn't care and directed me to send it (at my cost) to someone near by. I can't afford that, so it sat in a box and collected dust for several months.
Luckily, I took it to a wonderful store called Laywine's in Toronto and their nib guy worked on it for about 45 minutes and got it working well enough. They say it still isn't quite right.
I don't doubt that this is a rare case, but I got burned and Lamy's customer care was anything but caring.
Tim Teatro I love Laywine’s! Such great customer service there and what a lovely shop. Nice to see other FP enthusiasts from Toronto as well 😄
I think that they made the nib this way in order to give it a little "artificial" line variation when you're writing, you rotate it slightly in some letters so that it becomes a little less wet and thus having some line variation effect.
"Aww heck, yeah...love it!" Great job to Drew! I'm a lefty underwriter and I love my Lamy 2000 broad! Honestly, in my limited experience, it has been the best out of box (not into tuning yet) writing experience so far. It has been the smoothest pen I've ever written with. I just bought a second.
Just got some pens from you guys and love the level of customer service you provide. Even if it's just for peace of mind, I appreciate the pen testing on request. Thanks!
+copperchef We're happy to do it :) Enjoy the new pens! -Margaret
The Lamy 2K was my first gold nib pen and it didn't write the best when I first got it. I spread the tines ever so slightly and now it writes like a dream. I now know what "smooth like butter" actually feels like. Fantastic pen.
Interesting, even though a Lamy 2000 is not in my budget. It was cool seeing another Goulet Pens employee in the video. You've worked hard to build up a body of knowledge in your team. I'd like to see you make more use of it in your videos.
I can see me getting a 2000 very soon, maybe as early as next payday, so it is fantastically helpful to hear and see these experiences before I spend my money. This will be by far my most expensive pen (the next highest is an entry level Parker Sonnet, some Parker 51s and, for Lamy specifically, a Studio). These aspects do not discourage me from making my purchase - if anything it's the reverse - helping to emphasise the 2000 as a precision instrument requiring respectful and careful handling. When I want to mash my fist clumsily into the page and skewer it with some steel, I'll use a Wing Sung or Jinhao. When I want to take a little more care and perhaps when I'm willing to act my 53 years of age, that may be time to reach for a 2000.
I was ready to take my Lamy 2000 back but now I understand more about it and will be keeping it.. I love the pen and now I think I will love it even more. This video was VERY helpful!! Thank you!
I assume Drew's 2000 was inked up with El Lawrence?
I have an Macralon L2K, a Macralon L2K, and a Stainless L2K. The and wrote fine out of the box. The nib tines were not aligned at all, and I had to work on it quite a bit to get them aligned properly. Once the tines were aligned, there was no smooth "sweet spot". Once I polished the nib it wrote fine - still has the "sweet spot", but it writes OK. Otherwise, they have been good pens.
2:02 brian goulet tells him to shut up. 😂😂😂
That’s hysterical
I didn't buy mine from you, but I had to send mine back because of leaking from the nib - when it came back, it was much better, no issues for years now
Yeah, it's not supposed to leak :) -Brian
I'm not sure which camp I'm on:
A) A sweet spot is fine as an experienced writer should be able to adapt his/her writing style to fit the pen. Each pen is designed differently, and so we should respect whoever designed it. Worst comes to worst, the nib can be re-ground to something better.
B) An expensive, quality pen should be good in almost every objective aspect. Paying that much for a pen with a small sweet spot is disappointing.
I'm honestly in camp B. I have Sailors, and they have the same problem (and I'd go with camp A here), but the main reason I'm in camp B here is because of the overall idea of the L2k in the first place - very simple but a good writer. It was designed based on function.
An experienced writer buys pens that don't require adjusting his or her style. The L2K was NOT designed for function, it's was designed for form. The function is lousy. The awards it gets have been for form.
I have Sailor pens, too, and NONE of them have the same problem. The Lamy sweet spot is TINY., and completely unforgiving.
My perspective on pen reviews is this: you can critique the pen body and the nib-feed complex separately. The L2k is a great pen in terms of ergonomics and design but the nib I got was pretty eh. The reason I critique them separately is because you can always have the nib and writing experience fixed/changed/otherwise modified, but that body's not going anywhere.
I never had problems with any lamy pen I ever owned.
It might be that I'm just so used to them because, as a German, I learned to write with a lamy abc and used safaris the rest of my school career.
The only critic I have is that their EF nib is not fine enough, I usually wrote my lamys up side down before I switched to pilot and twisbi. Twisbi EF is incredible, like writing with a needle. 👍🏻
That has been my complaint. The 2k EF isn't anywhere near as fine as my Alstar or Safari. Just got the 2k yesterday though. I'm hoping I just have too heavy of a hand with it. Going to keep working with it for sure.
Despite the sweet spot, this is my grail pen. It has stuff no other pen has. The unique Bauhaus inspired look, piston filler, shows ink capacity; this pen seems to be made for me. And if sweet spots really were an issue, I would have stuck with rollerballs.
Funny, my Lamy 2000 EF just got here 2 days ago and I tried to see where this "sweet spot" problem was. Never found it. Mine didn't even have a sweet spot, I rotated the pen around just keep finding the same buttery smoothness. The only thing was that the line is wider in some angle compared to others, but there's never a nib angle or position where the flow was disrupted whatsoever. My Pilot Custom 74 in my opinion is the one that needs a bit of a "breaking into" when it comes to angle and rotation.
I see Lamy 2000 is available in Oblique Nibs and Normal nibs. Is this sweet spot applicable to both?
Apparently this video was made for me. I've had my 2000 with an EF nib for six or eight weeks and have thought almost every day about sending it in for a nib replacement. Skipping, hard starting, inconsistent flow, and then.... it writes like a dream line after line. Yes, there is a sweet spot that is relatively small compared to every other pen I've owned, but to be honest, I'm not convinced that is the whole issue. I think there is something in the design that despite it being a so-called classic, could be easily fixed by a company with the expertise and experience of Lamy.
I agree, but I think BECAUSE its a classic, they will not fix it.
They want to keep it the same, for all the customers who want the original 1966 icon.
I don't buy a 1966 Rolls Royce Phantom V and expect it to corner like a Maserati. A classic is a classic for a reason😊
I'm glad this video popped up in my recommendations. For a while I've been considering buying one of these, but I hate temperamental pens. With cheaper pens I expect to tune and tinker with the nibs, but not with a pen in this price range.
I'll stick with Chinese pens till I can afford a Nakaya.
Great video and accurate! Two additions: sweet spot can be off center and oblique medium is very forgiving. Lamy should bring that nib to the US.
Lamy is the only European pen company I never had any issues with. Their QC is great. It would be a shame if all the fountain pen nibs will become round blobs, just because people who grew up on ballpoint pens can't be bothered to learn to write with fountain pens.
The only reason fountain pens exist is because lazy losers couldnt be bothered to learn to dip the damn metal nib pen every half page.
The only reason metal nib pens existed is because lazy losers could be bothered to learn to use a damn ostrich quill.
+Edgar Valencia There is one flaw in your logic. A fountain pen offers all the advantages in writing of a metal dip pen or a quill pen, as in varying line thicknesses, with much less of the drawbacks (portability is a good example). However a ballpoint pen does not have the writing advantages of a fountain pen, what it gains in practicality it looses in writing ability.
@@philipwilson6888 I have a single Lamy Safari and it is one of the smoothest pens i've ever writen with. It's only a medium nib too!
I think the Lamy 2000 is an amazing pen but I do think there is still a quality issue in some. I bought 2 Lamy 2000s at the same time (one makrolon and one stainless steel). My EF makrolon writes like a dream. I can still take the pen out of the sweet spot and ink still runs… however, My stainless steel Medium has been a hard starter from the minute I opened the box. I’ve tried everything to find the sweet spot but no ink runs out and I know I can’t keep pressing down to get ink so it’s off to the nibmeister… I’d contact Lamy but I rather pay $35-45 for my pen to be returned to me within a week than wait forever. my friend also got the stainless Lamy 2000 and he also had problems with his as I do mines. It’s a shame because the finer one is so silky smooth but the medium has been so frustrating. I think we can’t expect every pen to be perfect because things do happen but it is disheartening to ink up a $320 pen and find it frustrating
Awesome video! And great to see the team members sharing their expertise! I would like to see more of these types of videos.
Thanks, we'll think on how we can do more like this. -Brian
I purchased two Lamy 2000s at the same time, one a medium nib, and the other a fine.
The quality control issue I ran into, with only one of the pens, is that it began to leak from the barrel very soon after purchase.
When you remove the cap, you can see two spring-loaded pins that help to keep the cap in place when the pen is closed. There is actually a seam that runs completely around the barrel of the pen along the same line as these pins, and it is from this seam that the leak developed; again, only in only one of the pens. Both pens received the same amount of use and the same care.
I was pretty bummed that the pen went south on me, and that it went south very shortly after purchase.
Would you say this pen is better for people who write in more of a stiff block style versus cursive? I’m new to fountain pens. Love Lamy! Got myself the Lamy Studio Rollerball for my purse! :)
I've had issues with the Lamy 2000 grip staining. I have tried cleaning out the cap, flushing a few drops back into the bottle after refilling, etc. And it still stains the grip.
I’m not really sure what people were expecting, you can’t even use a regular FP if you constantly rotate it while writing. That’s just a FP problem. It always writes best if you keep the same part of the nib on the paper
Does anybody know which nib-width the pen in the video has? Looks good for the dotted paper and I am currently unsure of which to pick. Thanks in advance!
I bought a Lamy 2000 medium a few weeks ago. The ink consumption is ridiculously low for how think the line width is. I generally take long notes and it has never disappointed me once. It's always wet, the sweet spot is not hard to find at all. I'd say it's too slippery with the ink I'm using: TWSBI black. A shoutout to TWSBI as well. It's beautiful, it's a dense well lubricated black ink.
Thank you, now I know this pen is not quite right for me that tend to twist and rotate the pen a lot.
I'm happy to help, there are a lot of other great pens out there. -Brian
+The Goulet Pen Company Understood Brian. I am still looking for my ideal every day writer. It's just so many pens it is quite overwhelming. I took my time so I don't make a mistake.
+thomasbudi2000 Try a metropolitan. Start small and work your way up
You could also try an oblique nib if you have heavy rotation.
@@Symphing12 are you sure?? I have the L2000 oblique Medium and I don’t think twisting this pen is very forgiving on the ink flow. This is not a problem at all for me but I think it could be for others
I'm loving my L2k. I've noticed that it seems to write better with a wetter ink, such as Kon Peki than it did when I had Black Swan in Australian Roses. Sadly, I don't like Kon Peki so much and I'll give BSAR another try once I've finished using up all the KP.
The nib is also hooded and devoid of any engravings. This makes it harder to ensure you're on the sweet spot visually.
That’s a good point. Less of a visual reference, perhaps. -Brian
Wow! Thanks for this. I have two Lamy 2000 pens and I always figured that it was a QC problem. I never knew about the sweet spot. Going now to take my 2000s out of mothballs! Can't wait to use them again! Thanks again!
I like to consider it a 'learning curve'. Takes a whole to get into the groove with the 2000, but then should be good to go! - Colin
Sorry this is so late to comment, but I’ve been wanting a secondary Lamy in EF or F nib. But I’m torn between it and a Pilot 912 with Waverly nib. Recommendations perhaps, please? Which should I go with? I’m a lefty.
A tool should adjust to you, not the other way round. I am going to skip this pen now that its pretty much that lamy is intentionally making the "sweet spot" small and not QC issues.
Fair enough, it's not a pen for everyone. The sweet spot honestly doesn't bother me in the least, so it's going to be an issue for some and not for others. -Brian
its like an italic nib its not a problem its a characteristic and if you dont like it then dont buy the pen but there are people that do
But with an italic there's a payoff, nice line variation. The payoff for dealing with the small sweetspot on the lamy is?? Everything has it's pros and cons. Sugarcoating a downside isn't helpful.
there is a stubbish characteristic to the nib. The sweet spot is maybe 15% smaller than that of a standard fountain pen nib. I found no issues with either my medium or fine nibbed lamy 2000.
So I just purchased this pen a few days ago, undoubtedly one of the smoothest and most interesting pens i've bought. But unlike the other fountain pens that I have, it does not write under it's own weight, is that normal? Cuz every other pen requires literally no pressure to write, but this one i have to press down regardless of the "sweet spot".
Hmmm, I haven't seen that problem before, my two 2000s definitely write on their own weight. Does it write fine without skipping or flow issues normally? The tines may be pinching in slightly cutting the ink flow just a bit. Looking at it with a loupe could help diagnose. Even a thorough cleaning could help remove any debris that may be in the nib as well. - Colin
@@Gouletpens Hey Colin, thanks a ton for your tip, as it turns out, you were right about the pinching, I cleaned it thoroughly and ever so slightly pressed the nib against my thumb nail, and now it works unbelievably good. Thanks again..
I did order one of these in a Medium nib, after being persuaded that maybe this sweet spot issue was being blown out of proportion. I will be returning this pen. I was surprised at how much being in the very small sweet spot affects how the pen feels. If you are out of it, the pen may still write, but it feels labored. Thought it might be fine as I love my Vanishing Points which also have small nibs. But those maintain a typical round tip and this Lamy has the “rounded square” design. Not for me, unfortunately.
Can anyone recommend a Fountain pen with a nice broad wet italic(not stub), But something with a little more of a traditional body (that excludes the Pilot parallel) and something other than the lamy line up, the al star, joy. safari etc. Because I have a Sheaffer No nonsense that my father gave to me and its from the 80's and I love everything about this pen but, it's seen some better days I have tried everything to try and clean the nib unit and the feed but I still contiually have flow issues; it will often have a hard time starting and with eventually run dry. But if it doesn't run completely dry then it turns the ink that I'm using into a much lighter color than before and I'm a huge fan of highly saturated blues and burgundy's so it kills the color. Any suggestions?
+FREQUENCYZX11 It's rare for any pen company to make a true (crisp) italic, usually they're too scratchy for the average fountain pen user. The Aurora Ipsilon is what I'd point you to, they have the crispest italic around. It's going to run you $100 though, a bit more than a Parallel or Lamy. As for your ink, you could go with something more saturated, Noodler's has a slew of really saturated blues and burgundys. Noodler's 54th Massachusetts, Navy, and Blue Black. Noodler's Burgundy, Black Swan in Australian Roses, and Red Black. -Brian Goulet
I do love my LAMY 2000, but I have a couple of issues with it. I am a nitpicker, and when I feel the area where the nib will screw onto the handle, the seam is slightly uneven, so not quite as seamless as I would like. It is not something that has impaired its functionality, but considering that they advertise a seamless design, I was a little disappointed. Anyone else have this issue, or did I just get unlucky?
great stuff, thank you :) I feel like we needed this vid for years!
+Mishka Fifty Glad it's helpful! -Margaret
I face a similar issue with my Cross Century II medalist fountain pen. Does it have a sweet spot too? Can you please do a video that shows and demonstrates this on that pen?
Great video. I have to take care to hold my Lamy 2000 at the right angle, but it writes so well that it is worth the effort. In fact, I love my 2000 so much it is an effort for me to use any other pen. I buy from Goulet pens because if there is any quality problem they will quickly take care of things.
It definitely has a bit of a learning curve when it comes to finding that "sweet spot" on the Lamy 2000, but it's totally worth it once you do! - Colin
I believe any on who passes on this pen because of the tipping shape is really losing out. It's worth a try and trip to nibmeister or a few minutes of your own adjustment. Killer value and design!
Agreed! It's coming up on 50 years now, this pen is basically an icon in the FP world! -Brian
On the other hand, maybe I don't want to pay someone to fix the pen I just paid a ridiculous amount for.
I like broad nibs and the Lamy ones all have a slight “squareness” which makes them a little like writing with a stub - just a little - I guess you either like that or not, it does give a slight natural line variation. The short nib means there is very little compensating flexibility. I guess if it seems to be fighting back then it isn’t the pen for you but, for me, that hint of stubbiness adds character which I like without the, greater, discipline of an actual stub....
I have the same issue with my Aurora Archivi Storici fountain pen, you have to work with the pen and keep the sweet spot, sometimes you let go and the pen won't write.
I maybe wrong but I think its due to the short nib and the way its built and the Aurora and Lamy 2000 are almost identical in nib shape.
I'll have to keep the Lamy 2K in mind. I like the range of nib options.
I had a similar learning curve with my old Vanishing Point and assorted italic pens. If you loosen your grip a bit and lighten up the pressure, the nib settles into place on its own.
I'm a lefty. Love the pen. I even have taken it apart to clean (not recommended by the manufacturer), and it was very easy to do and get back to top writing. Simple, clean, easy. Buy a 2000.
May i ask how exactly you like to write? Im a lefty too and think about buyinh this pen. Im an overwriter and im wondering if this will interfere with the pens sweet spot. Thanks in advance :)
@@jensmetzler2033, I actually write with an under hand style. I used to ride with an overhand style, but found I used to smudge a lot. I find it helps to keep cleaner in my writing that way.
It shouldn't interfere with finding the sweet spot in your writing.
It’s great that ya’ll will test a pen before shipping it. Wish I’d seen this before ordering the Nemosine Singularity. Had 2 back to back give me trouble. Will try a 3rd time with them next month (it’s “the charm, right?), but have Drew try it out and will even pay for the ink sample to go in it, to make sure it’s trouble free. [will be the 0.6mm stub].
As lefthanded hook writer I've never had flow issues. The M nib writes super smooth, however to the few people I've lent my pen they all have some sort of flow issue.
Finally! A lefty overwriter opines! Thank you !!!
How do you decide which nib size to pick on which pen model? Best for that model? Best for your writing style? Whatever you don't have yet on other pens? All of the above?
I think all of those factors come into play. I tend to go with writing style most frequently, which is stub nibs. That said, I used to be an EF kind of guy so I opted for stub nibs because I didn't have it and now here I am. - Colin
This is easilly one of my best writers, along with my Sailor/Platinum/Nakaya pens.
+p880pad I'm still a college student, slowly saving up. Thinking of getting a nice pen when I graduate. What would you suggest, given a few options of Visconti, Nakaya, Platinum, Sailor? I like nibs in the Fine to Medium range.
+Jason Tay Real quick question what would be your maximum price point? because if your looking at the top end of the spectrum i would say go for the Sailor king of pen. its about $700ish from japan that's a little more on the extreme end of things but I only recommend it because that is what I'm buying my self for my second semester present for my Junior year. (in like 2 days) but what i would also recommend is the Pilot Falcon $144 in resin and $249 in full metal, it has an amazing 14k gold nib and maybe if your just trying to impress you could also go for a Jinhao 159. The replica of the famous Mont Blanc 149 (Mont Blanc's flagship pen $935) for about $12.50 writes well has a good capacity and anyone beyond the fountain pen realm would probably think that its a pretty expensive pen. But that pen is for larger hands as it is about 14+ mm in diameter and weighs roughly 50G's. But to address Another company that you listed you could also get a sailor 1911 they sell for about $150 depending where you buy it. From what I've heard they are outstanding pens,
FREQUENCYZX11
Hmm I see. I guess my maximum price point would be around $800 to $1k max. The Pilot Falcon, or Custom 912 FA nib looks really good to me and I've been looking at it for a while. I do happen to own a JinHao 159, but the nib was too broad for me so I'm thinking of getting replacement nibs. I took a look at some of the Nakaya Urushi pens which are so awesome, but frankly I'm not sure if they would be practical EDC pens. Sailor KOP looks pretty cool too. I wonder if my local retailer has samples available for trying out.
Which KOP are you getting?
+Jason Tay if I could have any one of them I wanted I would be getting the realo the one with the vacuum filler buuuuut it was a limited edition and they no longer make them. so I'm buying the normal ebonite KOP. because I can't get over how gorgeous the simplicity of the ebonite version is. also on a side note. just a personal opinion I went and tried a Mont Blanc 149 and was so disappointed. it was this monolith of a pen, a masterpiece . a work of art . until I picked it up.... it was so lightweight and feather like that it didn't feel substantial at all in the hand. compared to the heft of the 159. the "precious resin" construction made it feel almost like a toy. plus the fact that the KOP is $700 vs $935 and you get so many more options for things like nib options, body materials accent bands etc. but sadly I don't have a local retailer with a testable KOP so if you do happen to find one do tell me how it was .
+Jason Tay If you are writing a lot, and just want to bring a lot to paper, consider a (mechanical/manual) typewriter. yes I am serious, just because they were around for a long time, doesn't mean that they cant be useful in modern times. A high-end typewriter which has been professionally reconditioned/serviced will cost you about 150 to 500 dollars, heavily depending on what particular brand and model you choose, and what condition it is in. That may seem like a lot of money for something "obsolete". but even fountain pens have been around forever, even longer then typewriters, so think about that. With the technology we have available to day, technically, they are also "obsolete". But what's obsolete or not is subjective and completely up to you.
The brands I would recommend are mainly German machines, depending on what style of typewriter you want, a Portable, ultra portable or standard (office).
In general, ultra portables are great for, who would have thought, for portability, they are like the laptops of typewriter's. But, just like a laptop, they generally only provide the basic functions and will not feel as good to type on. Something like a Set-tabulator, adjustable paper support, touch selector or 3 layer colour-selector is rarely found on ultra portables. Portable typewriters are the most popular, because they are a great compromise between functionality, typing feel and portability. Many high-end portables are fully featured, just like the big standard or office machines, and generally provide a fairly comfortable typing feel. They usually come with a case, though, some bigger and heavier "portables", you are probably better off leaving them on your desk.
Standard, or office machines are big, stationary and very heavy machines, intended for use in a business, or at home. Because of the greater leverage, they provide the "best", or lightest and quickest typing action. They usually, if its a high end model, come with a lot of features and a wider carriage, even though most of that tends to be rather unnecessary for a private person.
For the portables, ERIKA and OLYMPIA are generally very nice machines, there are also some very good Smith Corona's, and Hermes machines. Particular models I would recommend are the ERIKA 10, OLYMPIA SM 3, 4 and 9, ERIKA 5 TAB, ERIKA Model M, HERMES 3000, Smith Corona SIlent, Sterling and Silent Super. All best-sellers in their day and still remain the all time favourites today. Some machines, like the ones from Europe like ERIKA, OLYMPIA and HERMES will be a lot more hard to find and more expensive depending on where you are located, your best bet would probably be to buy from Ebay.DE, the German Ebay site, even though the shipping will be expensive, you will probably still spend less in total. Especially the ERIKA's are very hard to find and expensive in the states, but they are also very highly regarded. Even though I would say, If you like the style, the best all-round typewriter remains the Smith Crorona Silent Super, but they are rarely to be found for sale in mint condition. But they are plenty and inexpensive, and if you are lucky, they even work. The German ans Swiss machines will last you longer though. Be ware of how they are shipped tho, typewriter's where not designed to be shipped.
Just ask me if you have any more questions, I can probably help you out.
I think it would be a good idea to have this video on the Lamy 2000 pages on your guys' website.
Absofrigginlutely!! -Brian
Glad others have smooth-writing Lamy 2000s, that is not my experience. Mine starts slow and upstrokes nearly disappear no matter how I hold the pen. I sent it to Lamy in Texas and they were very prompt in getting it back to me within a week. It's nominally better after they adjusted the nib but the problem is still there. I've owned and used dozens of fountain pens and this is the ONLY one that behaves this way. Very disappointed.
may i ask? what ink do used on video?
Bonus double! 💫✌🏽💫 I really love mine w a M nib. There’s been a learning curve. If they came in more colors I’d want another one. 🙃
love your reviews always informative
I could have purchased it in Amazon.com, but like your passion for what you do and bought it from your site.
Really appreciate that, means a lot! Let us know how you like the pen. :) - Colin
Is there any ADVANTAGE to the 2000's nib tip shape? It seems like something they should update in the design, since it doesn't have any advantages over a more spherical nib tip.
When angled correctly, it offers a really smooth writing experience. Overall, it's more of a learning curve than an issue, and not a steep one at that. I have two 2000s and are by far the best writers in my collection. - Colin
The Lamy 2000 with a fine nib was my first gold-nibbed pen, and I've had no problems whatsoever with it. I don't think I have a lot of rotation in my hand when I write, which probably helps.
But I agree with what you guy said here. You hear a lot about problems with the nib, and really it's just adapting to how it writes (if you don't happen to luck out and have a great experience with it from the jump, like I did).
It took me about 30 minutes to adapt to the Lamy 2000 when I first wrote with it 4 years ago, since then it's been smooth sailing. I think it's just different for some than others. I'm glad you took right to it, Sam! -Brian
It took me about 30 minutes to adapt to the Lamy 2000 when I first wrote with it 4 years ago, since then it's been smooth sailing. I think it's just different for some than others. I'm glad you took right to it, Sam! -Brian
i like old videos. this is "the one with drew needs introduction"
Thanks for the video! This is very useful as I've always wanted one of these pens but haven't heard of the issues. It actually has put me off getting one but that's the beauty of this hobby, plenty of choice!
same here... allot of Kool Aid drinking going on
Sweets to the sweet. The 2000 and I get along very well. It’s a classic. Full stop.
I am impressed with your pens, already bought from you folks. I just started buying fountain pens and ink, and they are so fun to learn about. Just last week I gave my 15 year old grandson several pens, and a journal. He loved them, and says he will try to keep a journal. I keep a journal for 37 years now, using Ball Pens, or Computer pens and EverNote, but I am having more fun writing with fountain pens. I enjoy using a large cigar shaped fountain pen, but am having a hard time finding one that has a screw on to post. Do you have any suggestions? Thanks PrepperDino
The "sweet spot" was a deal breaker for me. I owned one in the late 1990's and returned it to FPH. I was sick of having to think and reorient my pen every time I put it down on paper. The skipping was especially intolerable when it occurred when writing my signature. The Bauhaus form communicates that it's a "workhorse" pen but the need to conform to the pen and the need to consciously orient the pen goes against this distinction. IMO a restored Parker 51 is a true workhorse. Even the Lamy Safari is more of a workhorse pen. The Lamy 2000 certainly isn't.
It's definitely a learning curve and not for everyone. It can be frustrating to write with, but there's plenty of people within my office that use it on a daily basis that says its worth working through. To each their own! - Colin
Its easier to just take care of a pen that always writes... Than to always take care to write in a "perfect" way so your pen is robust enough to not require much care.
Then again if you have perfect-esque form anyway, then this is a really nice pen.
How many takes did it take to finish this video? Were you two cracking up the whole time?
Does this effect happen more, less, or the same depending on nib size? (ie. Broad vs Medium)
Definitely the finer the nib, the more you may notice it. Less tipping material, so the sweet spot is more apparent. I have a broad LAMY 2000 and rarely notice this. - Colin
They should mention moving your hand across the page as you write as opposed to wring an entire line by moving your hand the minimum of times necessary to write the line.
Was there a blue version of the Lamy 2000? I swear I saw one but that might have been a fever dream.
P
FFS - it's got a round barrel. If you have the nib slightly off, then adjust your grip. This happens with many many pens. It's more about the writer's technique, that's why some have no issues with any pen, and some do. The nibs on a couple of my vintage pens do this occasionally. Someone else can pick it up and never have a problem. It ain't the pen.
Any quality control issues with this pens clip?
Nope! That clip is SOLID. - Drew
Question for Q&A: I love the video discussing the lamy 2000 "quality control" with Drew Brown! You always say for $150 you can't go wrong with a Pilot Custom 74 (in blue, of course) or a lamy 2000. I was wondering since the Pilot Custom 74 doesn't have a "sweet spot issue" per se, would this be a safer pen to go for for that "next level pen"?
I have both those pens and the Lamy was love at first write but the 74 was not. They're both broad but I love how smooth and wet the lamy is whereas the 74 is drier and finer.
+Dolfandad79 you can get the pilot custom 74 pretty cheap on amazon if you look www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0018HHWFK
The question is as follows. Regardless if there really isnt a issue with the pen, if this many people have a problem using it then is the pen really all that great? I'd make the argument that it isnt an amazing pen if a ton of people cant use it in the same manner they use EVERY OTHER pen
I consider it a learning curve more than anything. It takes time to develop & understand the sweet spot and the nuances that entails, not everyone wants to do that (Which is completely understandable for a $100+ pen). Those that do, really enjoy the pen, so I think that's why it's still regarded as a great gold-nib option. - Colin
100%.
One Montbanc fountain pen I have has a wide sweet spot. It writes very well at quite a wrong angle. However, I cannot say anything general about Montblanc.
BRYAN MENTIONED RACQUETBALL!
ok i overenjoyed that, i've been an RB athlete until college and it's not a very popular sport, good to know Bryan is well cultured lol
Nice video, very informative!!
Unfortunately it seems that their quality control IS horrible. I recently received Lamy 2000 that had a crack in the feed body part straight out of the box. Lamyshop sent me a new one and also the new one had exactly same kind of crack! They insisted that its not normal and offered to send third one, but I rejected it cause there is probably a faulty batch of 2000's in the market. The crack is not easy to see, but if you unscrew the feed part, remove the metal ring and then look the rim against the light, its easy to see. It's not only cosmetic problem since it could lead to ink to leak. Not something you would expect from German brand.
I think the key is going to be practice. Sounds odd but all pens are different in various ways and you need to write with a particular pen for a while to get a feel for this and adapt your writing to how the pen functions. Not every pen will work for you right away but if you like a particular pen, feel it's comfortable, and want to use it then I suggest practice. Adjust your posture, hand position etc and eventually it will become natural. Not everyone wants to do this and for them there is always a ballpoint or roller ball pen lol. I kid of course.
Yeah, I prefer to call it a learning curve rather than a 'sweet spot'. It just takes time to adapt. Now is that something people want in a $150 pen? Not necessarily, but it becomes a really amazing writer if you get used to it. - Colin
I need another one of these its departure is killing me its all over my Christmas list
What a strange choice by Lamy to use this fussy and specific grind shape. Seems like they could, if they wanted, just polish it more roundly and make a more usable pen? Are they being stubborn leaving them this way?
Considering the pen has been in production since 1966, Lamy likely prefers to keep the original design. I respect that. I've three 2000's and enjoy them, but they're likely not for everyone. Using my 2000's (and those with italic nibs) has taught me not to rotate pens which makes every pen I use perform better and that's a good thing!
I wonder if that's also what made them design the Safari grip how it is, too. So that people hold them in a specific way and get used to it.
john li it mames them sorse for general writing.
They may be better for specific things, but I don't know what they are.
Glennhkc ive come to the same conclusion that they wont change it because its iconic.
People are buying it for looks, and for its fame. Not for how well it writes.
Edgar Valencia I've heard that if you get used to it, it's a great pen to write with.
Hmm, is there any way of getting rid of the sweet spot?
If you ground it down, but I wouldn't do that on your own. A nibmeister could do it. -Brian
Just a little suggestion to Lamy 2000 users who find a bit of difficulty with the nib’s “sweet spot.” The Oblique Medium (OM), Oblique Broad (OB), and Oblique Double Broad (OBB) all write beautifully and do not seem nearly as critical as the traditional nibs regarding the “sweet spot.”
Crazy because my Lamy 2000 I've had some of the LEAST issues with writing. Maybe the hood is subconsciously training my brain to hold it in the correct position. My other other pen that is this flawless with writing is my Vanishing Point and that's probably because the clip means I can't hold it wrong.
While I didn't buy mine from Goulet Pen, I did face a tiny bit skipping when I was doing figure of 8 strokes. But in my case it was a slight tine misalignment, and after some light tugging, it now writes nice, wet and smooth, even when I rotated it slightly. Pretty amazing pen.
+Jason Tay Awesome! With most pens that skip like this on the figure 8, it's usually a tine misalignment. I'm glad it was a quick fix for you :) -Brian Goulet
Dear Colin/ Brain/ Drew, so I got my Lamy 2k a month or so ago, and I love it--but I need some help with the ink window. Warning: this might be a nooby question: but how am I supposed to use it correctly? Do I lay the pen down horizontally? or do I hold it up vertically (nib up or down)? And is it supposed to tell me how much ink there is...or is it more of a binary "You have ink" vs "You don't have ink" type thing?
It's definitely more of a binary thing like you mentioned. As you're writing, you should be able to look at it. If it's colored in, you have ink. If not, or only a little bit, might be time to fill it back up. - Colin
Is this Drew's first ever video for this TH-cam channel? If so cool!
I think so! I had previously helped out with the "Heat setting" video, but I think this was the first one where I was on screen for the whole thing. - Drew
Customers are right, problem with Lamy 2000 is always the nib! it doesn't flow well.
It flows fine, you just have to write with it in a certain way.
This was very interesting even though I don't have a Lamy 2000 yet. I think it's great that you are explaining what the Sweet Spot is on this nib but you present it as if it was a drawback of this particular nib design. Does't the shape of the tip also have advantages? e.g. is it easier to find an maintain the optimal writing angle than with a nib that has a merely round tipping?
I wouldn't say the tipping is a particular advantage, other than it tends to hold up well over time. I know lots of people who've used them for decades and they write like the day they got them. -Brian
I have tried to like this pen, but it is impossible. The best small nib (IMO) is the Pilot Vanishing Point. No sweet spot, no too wet or too dry, no scratchy issues with the Pilot.
Lamy 2000 Medium vs Extra Fine for Note Taking?
The Lamy 2000 definitely gives a thicker line than other pens. I'd go with the Extra Fine, but do check out our Nib Nook to see the line variation in the different sizes (www.gouletpens.com/nib-nook). - Colin
+The Goulet Pen Company As Always, thanks for your customer service!
jo4dahwin did you end up buying the pen? How was it?
i do not have these issues. Love this pen so much.
Me too. The video really shocked me. My pen functions so smoothly.