Versus
Lamy Safari vs Pilot Metropolitan
The #1 first-pen showdown: molded grip and swappable nibs, or metal body and a finer, smoother line?
Option A
Lamy Safari
Pick the Safari if you want to experiment — nibs swap in seconds, the grip teaches a clean hold, and the ABS body shrugs off a decade of bags.
Option B
Pilot Metropolitan
Pick the Metropolitan if you want the best out-of-box nib under $25 — a brass body and a Japanese-fine line that behaves on office paper.
The decision table
| Lamy Safari | Pilot Metropolitan | |
|---|---|---|
| Body | ABS plastic, featherweight | Lacquered brass, substantial |
| Grip | Molded triangular (teaches tripod hold; divisive) | Round, smooth taper |
| Nib line | Western — F runs ~0.6 mm | Japanese — F runs ~0.4–0.5 mm |
| Nib swaps | Tool-free, whole size range cheap | Possible but not the point |
| Fill | Proprietary cartridge / Z28 converter | Proprietary cartridge / CON-40 included |
| Best for | Tinkerers, teens, grip-learners | Office writers, small handwriting |
The bottom line
Both are canonical first pens. The Safari is a platform; the Metropolitan is a finished instrument. Buy on grip and line width, not on internet loyalty wars.
The specimen press
Original nib & ink art, made to order.
The first pull is on the press.
Ink-swatch charts, nib-anatomy plates, and the “Piston Fill” cutaway are being lettered now. Join the desk letter to hear when they land.