It's Lighter & Leaner, Is It Better? • Majohn A2 Retractable Fountain Pen Review

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 29 พ.ย. 2024

ความคิดเห็น • 84

  • @JG3Reviews
    @JG3Reviews  ปีที่แล้ว +7

    *** From 9:23-9:33 some of audio went missing in TH-cam processing(???). I was saying that the only issue I had was that when I swapped the Pilot VP unit into the A2 it didn't operate as smoothly as in the VP or A1. Others have found theirs to be a smooth, usable swap. YMMV

  • @migueloxamendi4284
    @migueloxamendi4284 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Nice review. My A1 was a bit too dry/EF so I ran a brass sheet between the tines and now it writes like a pro, a bit wetter and wider line.

  • @thorhilda
    @thorhilda ปีที่แล้ว +24

    The only thing I wish they had improved on was not making the pens lighter, thinner or having facets, but giving us better nibs and a better choice of nibs. They have done everything but one important thing, at least for me. I don't see the A2 as an improvement, but rather as a cheaper version of the A1. The fact that you felt the need to check for missing parts is, I think, very telling.
    Thank you for this overview. Informative and enjoyable, as always.

    • @JG3Reviews
      @JG3Reviews  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      The missing parts was entirely my fault. I chose to order without the box, and then looked too quickly at the bubble wrap...I'd put that all on me in that case.
      I agree that it's a lighter, less expensive version. "Better" depends on a user's preferences in my mind.

    • @phoenixfeiren7639
      @phoenixfeiren7639 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      I find A2 to be much more practical compared to A1. I have both, and let me say, you are not getting through a day of 6-hour lectures with A1, because 30 grams of brass is just way too much for comfort. A2, on the other hand, is comparable in weight to my standard workhorse ballpoint pens and allows to take notes all day long, if needed. No hand cramps, no sore fingers - pure writing bliss.

    • @jake407
      @jake407 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      It's a 20 pen. Really you need to take a deep breath. If you want everything spend a few hundred bucks and buy a Pilot.

  • @chrisrap52
    @chrisrap52 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Great review. Covered everything. I have an A1 & some VPs, none rose to an EDC for various reasons. Thanks for your time to present this.

  • @Rgc571
    @Rgc571 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I continue to marvel at how smooth the EF nib on my A1 is. I bought it intending to use my 18k F VP nib but have not made the swap. I use a custom mixed, because it is fun, orange ink for annotation of documents printed on 20lb copy paper.
    I am tempted to buy an A2 for the lightness, as my only complaint of the VP and A1 is the weight.
    Thanks for an informative video.

    • @JG3Reviews
      @JG3Reviews  ปีที่แล้ว

      Same here. I thought I'd permanently swap the A1 out with my extra Pilot nib, but I've kept the Majohn in.

  • @d2row96
    @d2row96 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Currently love my A1. I think I will wait for the clipless version of the A2. Thanks for the awesome review!

  • @kevinreed6069
    @kevinreed6069 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I have one of the original Namiki vanishing point resin body pens from the 1990s. It's my favorite pen, but historically they have a problem with stripping or cracking at the plastic threads. Mine didn't have that problem, but did develop cracks around the plunger opening. I had the cracks on mine repaired and while it was in the shop I had a metal threaded insert installed in place of the plastic threads to avoid the stripping issue entirely.

  • @catwhisperer911
    @catwhisperer911 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I have 2 A1s and I really like them. They write every time I reach for them and that's more than I can say about some of the much more expensive pens that I own. Yeah, I'll be picking up an A2 as well. If it writes as well as my A1s then it will be a perfect EDC pen. Nice thorough review and thanks for sharing.

  • @HJKelley47
    @HJKelley47 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    James I own a matte black A1, I took the yellow/black A2 and mixed with the black A1, giving it is aomw
    additional weight. The metal furnishing give it a slightly better weight than the A2 with black furnishings.
    I also have a purple with silver furnishings on its way to me. Like yourself I have also enjoyed my A1s, and
    they have not failed me. I also agree with you about the nib, for it is pretty smooth for an EF nib. I did
    purchase a Pilot VP nib unit which I also use in either the A1 or A2. I would like to see the A1 in some of
    the same colors we see in the A2, for I am partial to the A1. I would love to see them make available
    additional nib unit choices, at least a true med and possibly a 1.1 stub.

  • @focusonthefuture582
    @focusonthefuture582 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I have all forms of Pilot VPs (like Fermo, Decimo, and Vintage the best), and both the A1 and A2. The A2 I have does not draw ink well. I syringe filled the empty cartridge, and it would take no ink at all. In the converter, it only works with a Pilot ink I put in. So the jury is still out on that one, plus I would like a variety of nib options.

  • @Heidejournal
    @Heidejournal ปีที่แล้ว +11

    I got the green A2 with the black clip, it looks cool and writes nicely. I hope they will also release this model without a clip soon because that‘s why I got the A1 in the first place. I have 2 Pilot Capless as well and I have to admit that I like the A1 better… my Capless always dry out quickly which the A1 never do just like you mentioned.

    • @JG3Reviews
      @JG3Reviews  ปีที่แล้ว

      I'm hoping they do, too. I have a family member that would really like this pen in a clipless version.

    • @jporkchop
      @jporkchop ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I'm sitting the fence on trying one of these, thanks for your comment. I did have a pilot vanishing point with a gold nib but for me it was always scratchy, I just never got to like it so I sold the pen. Thinking about trying one of these because I still like the convenience factor

    • @Heidejournal
      @Heidejournal ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@jporkchop I think they are definitely worth a try. The nibs are supposed to be EF, but write more towards F, at least mine do. For extra smoothness I use Iroshizuku inks or in my matte black A1 a Pilot Namiki black cartridge. Now I get to use those up, that’s another plus. ;) Happy writing!

  • @LSWUK
    @LSWUK ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks James for an honest review. I'm pleased with my A2. Very impressed with the writing experience. Cheers.

  • @crouserm
    @crouserm ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Thanks, James! I don't have the Majohn, but I do have the Pilot Namiki retractable (14k) from the late '80s or early '90s. This A2 reminds me very much of it. The converter in the Namiki is a squeeze converter. Also better than the Con-40. If I were more excited about retractable fountain pens, I emphatically would consider the A2. Blessings!

  • @Toga_SV
    @Toga_SV ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I was very much like you. I didn't have a problem with the weight of the A1 and was somewhat put off by the lightness of the A2, but after using it for a while I vastly prefer using it to the A1. I do wish they'd bring out more nib sizes though. It's helped me to realise that when I do eventually get a Pilot Capless, it'll be a Decimo.

  • @user-gl5ld9vm7i
    @user-gl5ld9vm7i ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thanks, James, for another great review. I do admire the A1 and A2. I have the Pilot Vanishing Point regular size in a broad nib. It is currently my favorite pen 😊
    I actually like the bigger size and the weight of the VP.

  • @Hazardchrome
    @Hazardchrome 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Hi James.
    I bought an A1 and love it.
    Bought an A2 to use at work. I didnt paid much atention to the material, now i am a little concerned about it lol
    As far as durability, after a year, it is worth it?
    Cheers from Brazil.

    • @JG3Reviews
      @JG3Reviews  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      So far, mine is still working well. In fact, all three (A1/2/3) are still in great working order.

  • @_quiara_
    @_quiara_ ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I have 3 Decimos,two A1 models and one A2. I prefer my Decimos, but I can't deny the others are good pens.

  • @catherinehubbard1167
    @catherinehubbard1167 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I would indeed like a clipless version, with one facet as a roll stop.
    Have you examined the trap door mechanism where the nib retracts into the pen? What is it made of and does it look robust and well-fitted? From what you said about the A1 not drying out after days, at least that model is pretty air-tight and has lasted for a while. I’d be interested to hear if the A2 is airtight as well. That trap door seems like a place prone to potential issues, so we will see how it holds up after thousands of clicks.

    • @JG3Reviews
      @JG3Reviews  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      So far it's functioning well on this pen, which I do have in my regular rotation at the moment. Dry-out can happen if I leave it for over a week (esp. with the dryer brown ink I have in it now), but it's not bad. Regular daily use and I won't see dry-out at all.

    • @catherinehubbard1167
      @catherinehubbard1167 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@JG3Reviews : Thank you! It’s great that people like me on a tight budget have access to well-made fountain pens in a range of styles, sizes and styles of pen bodies and nibs. Let the collectors enjoy their gorgeous treasures, i enjoy the photos and videos but want pens I can use every day, enlivening writing and drawing. My newest is a Hongdian Black Forest Pro Carbon Fiber pen. Its very solid (carbon fiber wrapped around brass) and well-made, stylish in stealth black, even the nib. Its EF nib may be the smoothest EF I have used, and it’s just the right wetness. I’ve loaded it (a well-made converter) with Noodler’s Lexington Grey, my favorite ink for drawing - absolutely waterproof and UV-resistant and a well-behaved, gorgeously shading ink. It’s dark enough for good writing too, making it all I need for mobile sketching and notes. This pen has a range of swappable screw-in nibs too, also inexpensive: EF, F, M, bent, “long knife” (architect type).

  • @neilpiper9889
    @neilpiper9889 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I had a Pilot Decimo with a medium gold mib and a 1mm stub nib.The medium was too wet and the stub was too picky about the angle you could write with it. So I sold it. I have a Majohn A1 now with no clip and the ef nib. Perfect. The supplied converter is much better than the Pilot one.

  • @MissMarilynDarling
    @MissMarilynDarling ปีที่แล้ว

    I might have to get me one of these I'm not a fan of the extra fine nibs though maybe when they come out with a broad nib Ill think about it

  • @jaymcchesney
    @jaymcchesney 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    James will the guts of the A1 fit in a pilot vanishing point?
    Have had nothing but issues with the nib on the pilot. Thanks in advance.

    • @JG3Reviews
      @JG3Reviews  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Yep, they are a direct swap.

  • @bikkies
    @bikkies ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have one of these and already have (I think) all of the clipped A1 finishes. The only thing that strikes me about the A2 is something I was delighted to have already seen mentioned on Reddit before I purchased; the facets on the two halves of the pen do not line up when they are put together with what I feel is normal torque. Because the facets are narrow, this isn't a real showstopper for me, but it is a niggle that I cannot unsee. I chose an A2 similar to yours but with a different body colour. I wanted to keep the look of the silver clip and end of the section. Some versions of the A2 that lack these visually metallic components look ... "plasticky". The A2 already feels like it's a lower cost alternative to the A1 (which it is), and those versions make such a comparison more evident. Is the A2 a bad pen? No. Is it worth the money? Yes. Do I regret buying it? No. Which of this family am I more likely to use as my first choice? The A1.

    • @JG3Reviews
      @JG3Reviews  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I think that sums it up well, Graham. 👍

  • @cloudybeforerain7134
    @cloudybeforerain7134 ปีที่แล้ว

    13:57 Regarding the type of plastic, the amazon description says “polyhedral resin”.

  • @Harkescreative
    @Harkescreative 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I found the A2 dried out much easier than my first A1. I gifted a friend an A2 and his cracked so I think the plastic is of poor quality.
    The nib is good and I do like the pen but it just doesn't fit my quality needs.

  • @themisterchristie
    @themisterchristie ปีที่แล้ว

    The A2 is a nice looking pen. I've been very pleased with my A1 despite that there is severe nib creep and mine can't go for more than a couple of days without a hard start. Of course the A1 is inked with Platinum Carbon black and needs to be cleaned soon.
    Excellent review.

  • @metatechnologist
    @metatechnologist ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Nice review good pacing A+ thanks!

  • @magnoliamike
    @magnoliamike ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I want this one and the X1 SO BAD

  • @alanpareis734
    @alanpareis734 ปีที่แล้ว

    Fascinating, yep I would call it a copy of the late mid-century blue faceted Namiki capless that I have. Except mine is branded Namiki on the clip and the f 14k nib. The metal section end is mat stainless one piece machined, transitioning to clip, very sleek one piece, even the current Pilot VPs don’t have that. I agree, you are spot on re the Pilot converters, the Namiki has a reliable squeeze filler, and I have pitched the impossible Con 40 from my Crimson Sunrise VP and replaced it with a squeeze filler. Perhaps I need to purchase a couple Moonman/Majohn converters for my Pilot/Namiki clicky pens. Love the green, thanks for this review. I just stumbled on your channel, think I will be watching more often.

  • @loracharis6814
    @loracharis6814 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    That’s a nice green, you got there. One of my greatest pen regrets is sleeping on the green A1. I never see them available any more. And while I was here waiting for new colors in the A1, Majohn brought the A2 in fun colors. I think I will pass on this model though. Love both of my A1s.

    • @JG3Reviews
      @JG3Reviews  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Mine, too. The A1 in green is a good-looking pen.

    • @vermis8344
      @vermis8344 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Currently waiting on a green myself. When I saw the olive/avocado on ebay, I knew the A2 had to be my first rectractable FP, over the A1.

  • @tsherbs1309
    @tsherbs1309 ปีที่แล้ว

    Looks nice, but needs a wider nib option (0.5+mm)

  • @ThBreadMan
    @ThBreadMan ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I'm looking for a good fountain pen for traveling would the a1 or lamy would be better or what would you suggest?

    • @JG3Reviews
      @JG3Reviews  ปีที่แล้ว

      I would think both would perform similarly, though it depends on the travel conditions. I would probably take the Lamy (I'm assuming Safari or Al-Star, correct me if not) because of the durability and simplicity getting knocked about in backpacks, airplanes, buses, etc. If the concern is plane travel, I usually empty my fountain pens for the flight and then refill when I get to the destination, just to be on the safe side (last trip to Asia required four flights each way).

  • @alexhackmann
    @alexhackmann ปีที่แล้ว

    Another great review! Enjoying your videos. Thanks.

  • @frankbruno7122
    @frankbruno7122 ปีที่แล้ว

    Nicely done James, I have one of those 1990's Capless Pilots.. like the green one.. you have very nice handwriting.. thanks!
    Frank in Colorado

  • @denniscarlson8347
    @denniscarlson8347 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    My a1's have outstanding anti-drying.

  • @animula6908
    @animula6908 ปีที่แล้ว

    I like the facets and band.

  • @BC7Bill
    @BC7Bill ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks James! I am mine very much. It's my current EDC. 😊

    • @JG3Reviews
      @JG3Reviews  ปีที่แล้ว

      Hey, I saw your review on Etsy as I was looking to see if I really needed to do the dumpster dive for the converter. 🤣

    • @BC7Bill
      @BC7Bill ปีที่แล้ว +1

      ​@@JG3ReviewsI do hope the review was helpful. 😁

  • @romeredubost6971
    @romeredubost6971 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi, great video and analysis. Do you think the A2 or A1 would be a good pen for taking outside on urban sketching sessions( outside drawing) or will the tip dry in outside air?

    • @JG3Reviews
      @JG3Reviews  ปีที่แล้ว

      I would think it would perform like most (ink choice plays into drying out a lot, too). An EF nib will dry in open air quickly in general if uncapped (or in this case, exposed).

  • @TONY19021965
    @TONY19021965 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for another great review, brother. I have two A1s, one all black without the clip, and a white one with the clip in chrome trim. I've had the black one for about two years, and it is a permanent fixture at my computer desk. I've had the white one for a year and a half. Both have been great writers, with virtually no hiccups. I've always wanted a Curidos, but I found the cost prohibitive. Of course, the Pilot is the holy-grail of retractable fountain pens, but again "dat's a spicy meat-a-ball". Especially when one is living on a fixed income, and is often found suffering from that Italian disease "funds-a-lo". 😁 God speed.

    • @JG3Reviews
      @JG3Reviews  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I know what you mean, and those Curidas prices just got bumped up like everything else. Thankful for budget options!

    • @TONY19021965
      @TONY19021965 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@JG3Reviews
      Amen! All this, and Jesus too 🙌 😊

  • @TheDormousesDesk
    @TheDormousesDesk ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Accessories?? Instructions?? Mine came bubble wrapped with an empty cartridge and cart cover. Bummed there wasn’t a converter.

    • @JG3Reviews
      @JG3Reviews  ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I thought mine had come without at first, too. Then on a hunch I went back to the discarded bubble wrap (which I thought I'd checked well enough) and found it unseen behind extra layers. Now I'm wondering what I've tossed in the past!

    • @thorhilda
      @thorhilda ปีที่แล้ว

      Some vendors steal the accessories and resell them as extras.

    • @martinlebl631
      @martinlebl631 ปีที่แล้ว

      ​@@thorhilda That is shifty. Should lead to bad review, and no repeat business.

  • @greenerick
    @greenerick ปีที่แล้ว

    Have the pilot decimal got the plastic copy of the pilot first, liked the plastic version, and then got the original. Plus, it's a great video

    • @JG3Reviews
      @JG3Reviews  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for watching!

  • @philnaunton7181
    @philnaunton7181 ปีที่แล้ว

    I also have the "Vanishing Point" and A1. The one thing which bugs me about Both of these is Nib Creep. Both experience it and it can become messy over extended time. It can and will gum up the sealing mechanism on both of these. Does the A2 closing trap look any different? Just curious.

    • @JG3Reviews
      @JG3Reviews  ปีที่แล้ว

      It's the same mechanism as the A1, the body is all that's different so far as I can see.

  • @keithoglesby2979
    @keithoglesby2979 ปีที่แล้ว

    Any insight if they will add F, M, and B nib sizes?

    • @JG3Reviews
      @JG3Reviews  ปีที่แล้ว

      Unfortunately, I have no idea. I do hope so.

  • @philippebarillecavalier9275
    @philippebarillecavalier9275 ปีที่แล้ว

    The con-40 converter is so bad that when I learned of the existence of a compatible converter from Majohn, I ordered that part! Now I wait patiently for a month or two.

    • @martinlebl631
      @martinlebl631 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Use empty cartridge for maximum ink volume. CON-40 is all cons and no pros.

  • @tytan9139
    @tytan9139 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have 3 A1s and each has leakage problem at the nib-feeder area; it was quite annoying. Do you face the same problem?

    • @JG3Reviews
      @JG3Reviews  ปีที่แล้ว

      I haven't, but a couple others here in the comments have, so it's not just yours.

  • @Lionspel
    @Lionspel ปีที่แล้ว

    Which of these does not dry the ink when not used for a week?

    • @JG3Reviews
      @JG3Reviews  ปีที่แล้ว

      I have had better performance for that from my A1 (my A1 can go a surprisingly long time), but both have held up well against dry out. I'd put the A2 at "average."

  • @snowhibiscus
    @snowhibiscus ปีที่แล้ว

    Liked the body and design of the A2 however the nib is worse than the A1. Even with silicone grease, the A2 will drop blobs of ink while writing causing a mess and bleed through on paper. It was so constant, I just switched out and used the old A1 leaky nib with silicone grease instead. the grease is good for 2 weeks and no more blobs of ink while writing. However, no regrets as the new A2 body is lighter and the grids on the body is more comfortable to hold. I thought I'd put in my comments for any viewers who are considering on buying. Must weigh the pros and cons and would be best if you have another nib you can switch out from either A1 or the original Pilot Vanishing Point or Decimo pens.

    • @JG3Reviews
      @JG3Reviews  ปีที่แล้ว

      I'm curious, is this with the converter used, the cartridge, or not matter what? I've seen replacement nibs available on AliExpress, if you think it's worth a shot. I haven't had those leaks with either of mine, but it's good to hear from someone who has when they do. Hope you can get it sorted out.

  • @edwardstaats4935
    @edwardstaats4935 ปีที่แล้ว

    I love your videos. I am not a fan of these style of pens, perhaps because they are so like the ballpoints

  • @minghuiyuan68
    @minghuiyuan68 ปีที่แล้ว

    Majohn A2 is much better than the A1