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Pelikan Twist

Pelikan Twist

 

The Pelikan Twist is an entry level fountain pen offering that is relatively affordable and quite functional. Initially, the color schemes and aesthetics didn’t seem very appealing, but I eventually came to appreciate the uniqueness of the design for a starter pen. I chose the 2014 limited edition “Petrol and Apricot” color with a fine nib (also comes in medium). Constructed entirely of plastic, the Twist feels sturdy but lightweight. The plastic itself seems like it could handle daily wear and tear rather well, but perhaps won’t stand the test of time after many years of heavy use. When squeezed, the body does not flex, but the cap will. The cap slips on with a satisfying click and I think it’s kind of fun how you need to follow the twist of the pen while uncapping. However, I could understand why this might be slightly worrisome to others as the rubber of the grip section could become worn down if you let the grip rub against the inside of the cap constantly.

Pelikan Twist

Generally speaking, I find no appeal in grip sections that have predetermined locations for you to place your fingers, but the Twist is surprisingly comfortable to hold in spite of this. The rubber has a sort of soft-touch, smooth, plasticky feel to it. Depending on where you purchase the pen, it may or may not come with a converter. The pen is well balanced and actually looks about as heavy as I was expecting it to be. While the cap will sit on the back of the pen, it does not post securely by any means. The steel nib is a wonderfully wet writer and was smoother than I was expecting for an entry level pen. This may not be an essential pen for your collection, but I am all for more affordable options being available and the Pelikan Twist holds its own rather well. If you’re searching for an affordable pen, this is certainly worth a look!

 

Nib material: Steel

Cap: Snap

Filling mechanism: Cartridge/Converter

Overall Length: 139 mm

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  • David Bodah Christiansen

    August 23, 2014 at 5:00 am | Reply

    From the colorful and thorough review that you’ve done on the Twist I would feel comfortable trying one out and seeing for myself. The most important aspect of a good instrument is how it writes after all and a smooth nib with a wet flow is just what I prefer. I have lots of fancy fountain pens, but I find that some of the best writers happen to be the least expensive. It looks like a fun little pen.

    On a side note, I just want to compliment you on your writing style and clarity. It is quite impressive and after having read hundreds of other posts and reviews elsewhere, I would say you are definitely talented and on top of the game.

  • craig

    September 2, 2014 at 8:44 am | Reply

    Hi Adam,

    I enjoy your reviews and style. I see from your newsletter you are going to Osaka and Kobe, I would love to see the special Sailor inks that Kobe do in the blue range, as it happens I will be travelling to Kobe and Osaka this weekend as well. I am travelling from NZ, so I am very excited to get my hands on some ink and a few pens as well. Enjoy your trip

  • Peter Buergin-Witt

    November 25, 2014 at 7:18 pm | Reply

    Nice review ! Please keep in mind when looking at pens like the Twist, the Pelikano, the Lamy Nexx etc. that these pens usually target the German and other European primary and high school markets, not necessarily “grown-ups”… Born and raised in Germany, I still remember my first blue Pelikano that I got for 2nd grade. Even the Lamy Safari was advertised as a school and college pen when it first came out in 1980 – intended for “junges Schreiben” (“youthful writing”)… not at all as a modern-day design icon!

  • Pedro Scassa

    September 23, 2015 at 7:09 am | Reply

    Does anybody know who designed this pen? I think it’s just marvellous. I have a black one with a grey section, a stunning piece of design.

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