In general, 14k nibs are more suitable for the customization for added flex than most 18k and 21k nibs. However, there are some exceptions. In particular, some 14k nibs that are smaller in the actual size of the nib (not the tipping point) are less well-suited to the customization for added flex, while some larger sized 18k and 21k nibs are naturally springy and do have some potential for added flex. Also, a long slit nib is better for flexibility than a short slit nib.

For instance, the Pelikan M1000 18k nib, with its very large nib size, already has some natural springiness and can be given a customization for some added flex as well. The slightly smaller M800 18k nib shares similar qualities. Conversely, the smaller 14k and 18K M600 and M400 nibs have only limited potential for added flex due to their smaller size and deep imprints, while the 14k M250 nib, with its simpler imprints, is somewhat more suitable.

Nakaya's Fine Soft and Medium Soft nibs are already semi-flexible and make excellent candidates for additional flex through customization, but even the standard Nakaya and Platinum 14k nibs are still well-suited to adding flex. Note, however, that Platinum 18k nibs, such as on the President and some 3776 series pens, are not good candidates for flex.

Pilot's Resin Falcon and Metal Falcon series pens have the most flexible nibs available today and make excellent candidates for additional flex as well. In contrast, the Vanishing Point nib is unsuitable for flex. The Custom 74 pen, despite its 14k nib, has only limited potential for flex, while the 18k Custom 823, Yukari Royale, and Emperor nibs, due to their larger size, do have some value for additional flexibility.

Sailor's 14k Sapporo and 1911 Mid-Size series nibs have very limited potential for added flexibility due to their smaller size, while the large 21k King of Pen has a springiness similar to the Pelikan M1000 and can be given some added flex as well. Similarly, the larger Aurora 14k nibs on pens such as the 88 and Talentum are well-suited to adding flex, while the smaller 14k nibs on pens such as Finesse and Ipsilon De Luxe are less so.

In Omas, the new Paragon and Milord pens have larger 18k nibs that can be given some flex. Some limited edition Omas pens are made available with a semi-flex 14k Flessible nib that can be given added flex as well. The larger Celluloid Omas Bologna pens are fair candidates for flex, while the smaller Resin Bologna pens are much less so. Bexley nibs, similar to the Pelikan M800, can be given some added flex, as can most Montegrappa pens other than the Nero Uno Linea.

So while larger size nibs and 14k nibs are usually the best prospects for flex, there are still plenty of exceptions based on the particulars of any given pen and nib combination. Still have questions? Just contact us by phone or e-mail below and we'll be happy to help...