Thursday, January 12, 2012

First Review: Sheaffer NoNonsense, 1969-2003

Background: The design of the Sheaffer NoNonsense is based on that of the Sheaffer Flat-top pen of the 1920s.


This review is unique, as there are two different types of Sheaffer NoNonsense; ballpoint, and cartridge fountain pen.





The Sheaffer NoNonsense ballpoint is comfortable. However, the quality of the ink in the ballpoint refills that are manufactured by Sheaffer is questionable. I always replace the Sheaffer ballpoint refill with the type that is used by the Parker Jotter. The Parker ink is quick to flow, and never skips (the primary problem with the Sheaffer refills). The pen is large--almost a half-inch in diameter, which is perfect for my hands, for those who prefer a narrower vintage-style pen, I'd go with a Parker Jotter--these are still refillable, and still look like their 1950s counterparts. Pictured below is one of the more interesting Sheaffer NoNonsense pens--the Bicentennial Edition, made only in 1976.





The Sheaffer NoNonsense cartridge fountain pens are all very high-quality, especially the older ones. They can be found in a variety of colors; a yellow one is pictured below:





Like any Sheaffer Cartridge pen, they are relatively inexpensive, yet are fun to use. Sheaffer fountain pen cartridges are the best for this, and all Sheaffer fountain pens. The NoNonsense is by no means a good investment, unless you want a good, everyday pen. There are special versions, such as the Vintage, with gold-plated trim, and a chased black plastic finish, which are collectible.


Overall, the NoNonsense series deserves a five-star rating.

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