Parts of a Fountain Pen

The construction of a fountain pen is typically broken down into seven parts. While the names of each part may differ, they are generally the point, feed, section, filler, barrel, cap and clip.

Cap and Clip

The cap is an important feature of the pen, and it protects the nib while preventing ink leakage. The clip is the metal portion that is used to attach the pen to a pocket when it is being carried.

Barrel

The barrel is the large mid portion of the pen that makes up the bulk of the pen construction. Barrels are typically made of plastic or metal, and they house the ink supply.

Filler

The filler is the system by which the pen receives ink, and it is what makes the fountain pen distinct. There are a number of filling systems such as eyedropper, sac, plunger, piston and cartridge fillers.

Section

The section holds the fountain pen together. It is sometimes referred to as the "grip section" as it is where your fingertip is located when you write.

Feed

The feed regulates the flow of ink. It is located under the point and is usually black.

Point

The point is the most complex portion of the pen's construction. Older fountain pen points were made of gold, and they were once referred to as "pens" in themselves.

References

• Penspotters: Construction of a Pen