Starter PensEsterbrook Estie
- Vibrant acrylic designs
- Smooth gold nib option
- Balanced everyday comfort
Starter PensLamy
The Lamy Safari remains a benchmark entry-level fountain pen, combining durability, functional design, and reliable performance at an accessible price.
Affiliate link: we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
The Lamy Safari remains a benchmark entry-level fountain pen, combining durability, functional design, and reliable performance at an accessible price. Its interchangeable nibs and broad color palette make it a versatile choice for students, professionals, and collectors alike, though purists may want to upgrade to gold nibs or converters for a more refined experience.
| Body Material | ABS Plastic |
|---|---|
| Nib Material | Stainless Steel |
| Nib Sizes Available | EF, F, M, B, LH |
| Filling System | Cartridge or Converter (Z24) |
| Weight | 17.6 g |
Build notes
What we liked
What could be better
The Lamy Safari has become something of a modern classic among entry-level and enthusiast fountain pens alike, instantly recognizable by its sturdy, injection-molded ABS plastic body and distinctive clip shaped like a paperclip bent at a right angle. Designed originally in 1980 by Wolfgang Fabian, the pen retains a bold, utilitarian aesthetic that feels both retro and contemporary, available in a wide array of colors ranging from classic matte black and glossy white to seasonal shades like neon coral, petrol, and dark lilac that collectors eagerly anticipate each year. Its lightweight build, weighing barely over 17 grams, makes it comfortable for extended writing sessions, whether for daily journaling, note-taking, or practicing calligraphy techniques.
At the heart of the Safari's appeal is its steel nib, offered in extra-fine, fine, medium, broad, and left-handed oblique grinds, each delivering smooth, consistent ink flow with the reliability the Lamy brand is known for. The nib is easily interchangeable, snapping in and out of the section with simple finger pressure, which allows users to experiment with different line widths without needing specialized tools or sending the pen for professional adjustment. The pen's molded grip section, featuring three flattened facets, encourages a proper tripod hold, making it a favorite among educators and calligraphy instructors who recommend it to students learning correct pen posture and control for both everyday handwriting and more decorative script work.
Compatible with Lamy's proprietary T10 ink cartridges as well as the Lamy Z24 converter for drawing from bottled inks, the Safari offers flexibility for those who enjoy exploring the vast world of fountain pen inks, from vibrant blues and greens to deep, saturated blacks suited for calligraphy flourishes. The pen's clear ink-view window near the section lets users monitor ink levels at a glance, a small but practical touch appreciated during long writing sessions. Durable enough for daily carry yet refined enough to introduce newcomers to the ritual of fountain pen writing, the Lamy Safari continues to serve as both a gateway pen for beginners and a reliable, well-loved companion for seasoned calligraphy enthusiasts who value its no-fuss performance and enduring design.
Short notes from owners, lightly edited for length.
Perfect starter fountain pen
I bought this for my daughter learning cursive and it's fantastic. The grip really helps her hold it correctly, and the ink flow is smooth right out of the box.
Great value, minor gripes
Love the build quality and nib performance for the price. Only issue is the clip is a bit too stiff for my taste, but overall very satisfied.
My go-to daily writer
I've owned three of these in different colors. The medium nib writes beautifully and the pen just feels reliable every single day.
Solid but plastic feel
Performance-wise it's excellent, but I wish the body felt a bit more premium. Still, for the price you can't complain.
Great for calligraphy practice
I got the EF nib for calligraphy practice and it's been wonderful. Easy to switch nibs when I want to experiment with different styles.