I bought this because I wanted a pen in this material, that’s all. I missed out on some other models in PenBBS’s Galaxy acrylic, and this was the next thing that was available. And so:

I’ve ended up really liking this pen a lot, not just because of the material, but because the subtle curves in the body and cap prevent this model from being just another barrel-shaped pen. Every custom pen maker with access to nice materials has a straight-barrelled model or a cigar, and at least PenBBS is trying to add some variety.

The slightly concave section is very comfortable to hold, and the concave part of the body rests in the crook of my thumb. I like this pen for its lightness. Despite that, it’s still very solidly built, and doesn’t feel cheap at all.

It’s a cartridge/converter model that uses PenBBS’s own proprietary converter. At just a little wider than the standard international, it’s possible to get a standard one to fit, but you’ll almost certainly permanently change the size of the opening. (This has happened to one of my old Schmidts; I just wanted to see if it was possible to wedge one in.)

The section comes with an extra O-ring to guarantee a tight seal, preventing ink from leaking as well as accidental unscrewing of the barrel. The fact that this is part of the design means that it’s possible to eyedropper this pen for a truly huge ink capacity (>3ml).

The nib, as is typical for PenBBS, has a little fude-style upturned tip, but writes with a Western fine at normal writing angles. The nib is smooth — perhaps just a touch too smooth for my taste — but lays down a firm, even line. It’s very consistent, but in a quiet way: very much a good workhorse. I have no complaints about it.

I do really recommend looking through PenBBS’s online shop to pick a colour and shape to your satisfaction. There’s nothing to dislike about these pens, and the wide range of colours, acrylics and trim options means you’re more likely than not to find something you really like!

And here, paired with a pen to be reviewed next week, one final photo: