Tyler Dahl: Changing Esterbrook nibs - Another picture tutorial for beginners!

I always say one of the best features of Esterbrook pens are their interchangeable nibs. I also get asked very often by new Esterbrook owners: “How do I change nibs on my Esterbrook. I’m afraid I might break it by doing it the wrong way.” So in response to this question I thought I might do a picture tutorial of how to change an Esterbrook nib! If you have a new Esterbrook, but you’re afraid of breaking the nib while changing it, just follow this. It’ll show you how to fit your Esterbrook with just the right nib for your writing style!

First thing to remember: Esterbrook nibs are very sturdy and are not easily broken.

What you'll need:

- An Esterbrook Fountain Pen

- A New nib to screw into your pen

- A pair of ready hands

Step #1 - Get your pen out along with the new nib you wish to put in.

Step #2 - While holding the pen in your left hand as shown, begin unscrewing the nib to the left or counter clockwise. Use a firm and steady grip to turn the nib out of the pen. In the picture I'm holding the nib in a way so that you can see it in the camera. The best way to hold the nib is to grip it with a thumb on the top of the nib and a finger on the bottom of the feed. This prevents the nib and feed from coming out of alignment or breaking.

Step #3 - Continue unscrewing the nib until it can be pulled out from the section.

Step #4 - After all the threads have been unscrewed, remove the nib from the pen and set it aside.

Step #5 - Select your new nib of choice to put into your pen. A 9450 ("Posting") nib is pictured here.

Step #6 - Put the new nib into the pen and get the threads started.

Step #7 - Continue screwing the nib in until it's hand tight. Not cranked tight but snug. Once again, in the picture I'm holding the nib in a way so that you can see it in the camera. The best way to hold the nib is to grip it with a thumb on the top of the nib and a finger on the bottom of the feed. This prevents the nib and feed from coming out of alignment or breaking.

Step #8 - your all done! Or are you???

Step #9 - Look down your barrel and you'll notice how the new nib is not in alignment with the lever. This happens because Esterbrooks nib all have slightly different threads.

Step #10 - Please note: This step (#10) is purely for aesthetic reasons and does nothing for the performance of the pen. If you don't mind the lever and nib being slightly out of alignment, then just leave it as is.

Gripping the pen in one hand, and the section in the other, slowly and gently turn them until the nib and lever are aligned. If it won't turn by hand easily, then you're out of luck. Most pens should turn freely though with minimal effort. Wearing rubber kitchen gloves will help with this step. I'd recommend it if your pen is a bit stubborn about moving.