Exploring Medium Nibs in Fountain Pens: A Practical Guide for Everyday Writers

Vanagas Pen - Medium Nib Iridium Germany

When I first dipped my toes into the fountain pen hobby a few years back, I was overwhelmed by all the choices—colors, designs, and especially nib sizes. Fine, extra-fine, broad... it felt like a secret code I had to crack. But one size quickly became my go-to: the medium nib. It's like the Goldilocks of fountain pen tips—not too thin, not too thick, just right for most folks. If you're curious about what makes a medium nib tick, or wondering if it's the upgrade your daily journaling needs, stick around. I'll break it down based on my own scribbles and chats with fellow pen lovers.

First off, what's a medium nib exactly? In the fountain pen universe, nibs are the metal tips that deliver ink to paper, and their width dictates how your lines look. A medium nib typically lays down a line around 0.5mm to 0.7mm wide, depending on the brand (think Pilot, Lamy, or Pelikan—they all have slight variations). It's thicker than a fine nib (which is great for tiny handwriting) but slimmer than a broad one (perfect for bold signatures). I remember picking up my first medium-nibbed Pilot Metropolitan at a local stationery shop; the ink flowed so effortlessly, it turned my messy notes into something almost legible.

Why go medium? For starters, versatility is its superpower. It's ideal for everyday tasks like jotting down grocery lists, signing checks, or even doodling in a meeting. If your handwriting is average-sized, a medium nib gives you that satisfying ink coverage without bleeding through cheap paper—though I always recommend testing on your notebook first. Pros include a smoother glide (less scratchy than fines), better ink flow for vibrant colors, and a forgiving nature for beginners who might press a bit too hard. I've used mine for everything from quick emails (yes, I still handwrite drafts sometimes) to long letters to friends. It's like having a reliable old car that handles city streets and highways alike.

Vanagas Handmade Fountain Pen with Medium Iridium Germany Nib

Of course, no nib is perfect. The downsides? On absorbent papers, like recycled notebooks, it can feather or spread ink unevenly, making your writing look a tad fuzzy. If you're into super-detailed sketches or have tiny script, a medium might feel too bold. And let's be real—some inks show up their sheen and shading better on broader nibs, so if you're chasing that artistic flair, medium might not wow you as much. I learned this the hard way when I tried a shimmering emerald ink; it looked great, but the effects were subtler than I'd hoped.

Who should grab a medium nib? Honestly, most people starting out. If you're a student cramming notes, an office worker filling forms, or just someone who enjoys the tactile joy of writing without fuss, it's a safe bet. Brands like TWSBI or Sailor offer affordable options under $50 that punch above their weight. Pro tip: Pair it with a mid-viscosity ink like Diamine or Noodler's for optimal performance—avoid super-wet ones unless you want surprises on your desk.

Medium Nib Writing

In the end, medium nibs remind me why I fell for fountain pens: they make writing feel alive, not just a chore. If you've been eyeing one, start simple—grab a budget model and experiment. Your handwriting might just thank you. What's your favorite nib size? Drop a comment below; I'd love to hear your stories!