1. I think it really depends. Inks like Pelikan Edelstien or Iroshizuku will probably not be more cost effective than cartridges. But inks around the $12 range, if they are 80ml or so of ink (Diamine, Noodler's, Pelikan....) are more cost effective. So overall, I would say that unless you are buying all expensive inks, that it will be more cost effective to use bottled ink. Cartridges are no fun anyway!
2. I don't totally understand what you're asking...But if you think that every time you want to use a piston filler or convertor pen, that you have to twist it to get the pen to write, than that is a misconception. Sometimes bad nib/ink combos will cause that, but you really should be able to leave the piston/convertor untouched untill it runs out of ink.
3. Gold nibs are not better in terms of smoothness, most of the time. (The tipping is the same on both, right?
) But they do allow for flexibility, which can be very fun. The only other advantage is that they can be retippped and repaired more easily than a steel nib. For me, I choose gold nibs because
I just want a gold nib. No real reason. Just my irrational thought
4. Yes. Now'days, there isn't always as much to show--the filling system is usually a boring c/c.
5. No. Pelikans are popular among people who like fountain pens, but they don't have some luxury aura around them like Mont Blanc. I've never heard of fake Pelikans (at least fake ones that are SOLD as real Pelikans).
6. I live in the U.S so I can't help you with that one...
3.
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