I have done nothing but rave about the Platinum 3776 Shungyo Fountain Pen since receiving it. Not only is the barrel design stunning, and my favorite limited release they have done, but the Soft Fine nib on the model I received was eye-opening. I’ve never used a stock nib that felt like this, and it fit my writing style perfectly. But, there is a but, and I want to cut right to the chase:
I recommend the Platinum 3776 series of fountain pens to anyone. I only recommend the Soft Fine nib to very few, and very particular, users.
This came to light at the San Francisco Pen Show, as I watched other fountain pen users try out my Soft Fine nib. Some got it right away. Others couldn’t make it write at all. The results were consistent, throughout a wide range of fountain pen experience levels.
When I got home and continued to write with my Platinum Soft Fine nib, it hit me. This is the Pilot Hi-Tec-C 0.3 mm gel ink pen of the fountain pen world.
L to R: Sailor Hard Fine, Platinum Soft Fine, Pilot Hi-Tec-C 0.3 mm
I rave about the Pilot Hi-Tec-C. It suits me and my style perfectly, especially the 0.3 mm. It is my favorite gel ink pen. I also rarely recommend it because it is so particular. The tip is ultra fine, and sometimes the line can be inconsistent. I’m willing to work through it because when the output is good, it’s the best pen I own. I’m finding the process of using the Soft Fine nib in this Platinum pen almost identical.
I can’t always get a perfect line out of this nib. If my pace is too fast, I outrun the ink. If my writing angle is off the sweet spot at all, my line breaks. When my writing is locked in and consistent, it is amazing and one of my favorite writing experiences. Just like the Pilot Hi-Tec-C.
Because of this, you should be aware of what your needs are if you are considering the Platinum Soft Fine nib. I can wholeheartedly recommend any other stock Platinum nib size without caveats, but not this one. What is perfect for me may not be perfect for you, especially in this case. I got to see this in person in San Francisco many times over.
The stock Platinum Fine nib is far more consistent, as is something like the Sailor Hard Fine nib. You would think the Sailor would be dry, but it has more tipping, which seems to be the reason the line is more consistent. I love them both, but they are very different experiences.
The Shungyo model is limited to 3776 units and is available at JetPens for $216. It’s more expensive than the stock versions of the 3776, but is one of the best looking pens - along with the Nice Lilas - they have released in some time.
(JetPens provided this product at no charge to The Pen Addict for review purposes.)
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