Hongdian Fountain Pens Shop
Hongdian redefines the landscape of accessible luxury by blending bold industrial aesthetics with the meticulous precision of high-quality steel nibs. This independent Chinese powerhouse has transitioned from a discreet manufacturer to a celebrated brand among global enthusiasts, offering an impressive balance of cultural artistry and everyday durability. From the tactical elegance of the all-black Forest series to the ornate storytelling found in the Dynasty collection, every pen serves as a testament to their commitment to smooth, wet flow and striking metal craftsmanship. Whether you are seeking the rugged charm of a brass retro model or the premium sophistication of a gold-nibbed masterpiece, Hongdian delivers a professional writing experience that punches far above its price point.
Top Hongdian Fountain Pens
Hongdian Black Forest (1850)
This iconic all-black instrument is the brand’s most famous model, celebrated for its rugged titanium-coated texture and stealthy aesthetic that suits both professional and casual environments.
Hongdian M2 Pocket Pen
A favorite among travelers and students, this compact aluminum pen features a sleek, short-bodied design that posts to a full-size length for a surprisingly comfortable and high-performance writing experience on the go.
Hongdian N23 Year of the Rabbit
Representing the brand’s artistic side, this model gained massive popularity for its exquisite lacquered body and the introduction of the “long knife” nib, which offers unique line variation reminiscent of traditional calligraphy.
Hongdian brings the art of fine writing within reach, combining architectural metalwork with high-performance nibs that challenge even the most established luxury brands.
Fountain Pens
Experience a masterclass in precision and style with instruments that are as visually captivating as they are reliable on paper. This dominant category features the elegant N11 Louvre series with its geometric lozenge patterns, the high-capacity N6 Piston in gold, and the iconic Forest Black, all designed to provide a wet, consistent flow across various nib sizes.
Accessories
Ensure your writing tools are always ready for inspiration with high-quality essentials designed for the modern enthusiast. The brand offers 18ml deep pigmentation black ink bottles and durable ink converters that facilitate a seamless transition between various bottled ink colors.
Other Pens
Versatility meets craftsmanship in a range of alternative writing instruments perfect for students, professionals, and gift-givers alike. Beyond their fountain pens, Hongdian produces smooth-writing rollerball and ballpoint pens that maintain the brand’s signature metal construction and weighted balance.
Customer Experiences
Steven Virtuoso
After my daughter gifted me a Hongdian Black Forest with an Extra Fine nib, I was genuinely shocked by the build quality for such an affordable instrument. The nib is remarkably stiff yet provides a “glassy” smoothness that I rarely find in EF sizes, and the included converter has worked flawlessly without a single leak. Its metal body has a satisfying weight in the hand, making it my go-to “user pen” for daily notes because it starts perfectly every single time I uncapp it.
Julian Brown
I recently added the N23 Year of the Rabbit and the 100th Anniversary models to my collection, and the level of detail on the lacquered metal bodies is simply breathtaking under a magnifying glass. The “long knife” nib on the N23 is hands-down the smoothest writing surface I have ever used; it glides across the page with zero scratchiness and offers a unique line character that makes my handwriting look more professional. These pens feel like they should cost five times their price, especially considering how reliably they perform during long, multi-page writing sessions.
Alv Martinez
My journey into the “fountain pen rabbit hole” began with the Hongdian Forest, and I’ve since upgraded to the N7 Moon Rabbit, which features a stunning piston-filling system. The ebonite feed on their higher-end models provides a rich, wet ink flow that really lets my shimmer inks shine, and the geometric engravings on the cap feel luxurious to the touch. Even after dropping my original Forest pen on pavement, the metal construction proved its durability—aside from a small chip in the coating, the nib remained perfectly aligned and continues to write like a dream.
Hongdian FAQ
What ink cartridges are compatible with Hongdian fountain pens?
Most Hongdian models, including the Forest and N-series, utilize a 3.4mm bore cartridge system, which is a common Chinese standard but larger than the 2.4mm “Standard International” size. While they are often compatible with Parker or Lamy-style cartridges, it is generally recommended to use Hongdian-branded cartridges or the included converter to ensure a perfect, leak-proof seal.
Can I swap the nibs between different Hongdian models?
Yes, many popular models like the 1850 (Black Forest) and 6013 use interchangeable screw-in nib units, making it easy to switch between Extra Fine, Fine, and Fude styles. Models like the N23 and N8 often feature #6 sized nibs, though you should always verify the feed alignment and housing threads before attempting a swap between different series.
How do I fix a Hongdian pen that is skipping or has “hard starts”?
If your pen skips, it is often due to dried ink in the feed or using paper that is too absorbent; a thorough flush with lukewarm water using the converter usually resolves this. For more persistent issues, soaking the nib unit overnight in water with a drop of dish soap can break down stubborn clogs, especially if you have been using high-pigment or shimmer inks.
What is the difference between a “Long Blade” and a standard nib?
The Long Blade (also known as a Long Knife) nib is a specialty grind that offers an “Architect” style experience, producing thin vertical strokes and broader horizontal strokes. This differs from standard rounded nibs (EF, F, M) which provide a uniform line width regardless of the direction of your pen stroke, making the Long Blade a favorite for those seeking calligraphic flair.
Are Hongdian pens made of plastic or metal?
The majority of Hongdian’s lineup, including the Forest and Dynasty series, is constructed from high-grade aluminum, brass, or stainless steel, providing a weighted, premium feel in the hand. While some models feature decorative acrylic or wooden barrels, the internal sections and threads are typically metal, ensuring long-term durability compared to all-plastic budget pens.