pilot custom 74 grenadine fountain pen review

Pilot Grenadine Custom 74 Fountain Pen Review

Today’s Pilot Grenadine Custom 74 fountain pen review comes to you from a new guest reviewer, Lindsey Summers. If you’re a fan of the Custom 74, see if Lindsey agrees with you on the pros and cons of this popular Pilot fountain pen. If you’ve never tried a Custom 74 fountain pen, use her review to see why it draws so many dedicated fans throughout the world.

pilot custom 74 grenadine fountain pen review
The Pilot Custom 74 fountain pen in Grenadine. // Photo Credit: Lindsey Summers, @donotmicrowavex

Meet Our Guest Reviewer: Lindsey Summers

Lindsey Summers is a YA Author, journaler enthusiast, and fountain pen fan. You may know her as @donotmicrowavex on Instagram, and you may have seen some of her photos featuring her journals and fountain pens in the Instagram Shop or even in the @penchalet social media feeds.

Watch the unboxing with our guest reviewer, Lindsey Summers:

More About the Pen Manufacturer: Pilot

Pilot pens brings 100 years of experience to their pen design and craftsmanship. The well known and widely trusted Japanese pen company is known for their exquisite Japanese artisan level craft, the simple beauty of their pen designs, and their high quality, precision fountain pen nibs. Another great benefit of buying Pilot luxury pens, they have a wide selection with options perfect for all levels of fountain pen enthusiast – from beginners to seasoned collectors.

Get all the Details About the Pilot Custom 74 Fountain Pen: 

If you need specifics about this pen, you can find all the details on the website. Order your own Pilot Custom 74 fountain pen in Grenadine or one of the other available colors on the PenChalet.com website today.

pilot grenadine custom 74 fountain pen review
The Pilot Custom 74 cartridge converter fountain pen is a demonstrator available in various colors – all with a gold nib.

“The biggest selling point of this fountain pen is the nib. The 14k gold nib is a dream to write with…”

Lindsey Summers, when she opened her package from Pen Chalet.
pilot custom 74 grenadine fountain pen review
Read the full review of the Pilot Custom 74 fountain pen in Grenadine. // Photo Credit: Lindsey Summers, @donotmicrowavex

The Fountain Pen Review: Pilot Custom 74 Fountain Pen in Grenadine

I was sent this Pilot Grenadine Custom 74 from Pen Chalet, and can I say I’m in love? The biggest selling point of this fountain pen is the nib. The 14k gold nib is a dream to write with (bouncy, smooth, and lays down the perfect amount of ink—not too dry, not too wet) and one of my favorite nibs in this entry-level gold nib category (think Platinum 3776, Sailor 1911). I will say it lays down a thicker line than its Japanese counterparts—acting more like a Western nib—so buy accordingly.

Does the Custom 74 Cap Post?

The pen is comfortable in the hand, and I can sit for long writing sessions with no problems. You can post the cap, but I find it a little too top-heavy, so I prefer without. The cap also has a clip which is a nice feature, and I like the ball at the end, which allows for easy sliding.

One Problem with the Pilot Grenadine Custom 74

There is one major con, and that is the converter. Of course, you can buy cartridges, but I prefer converters as that allows more freedom with ink. Unfortunately, the piston style converter doesn’t allow you to fully fill the body, so unless you have a syringe, you won’t get it topped up. It’s not a deal-breaker for me since I have a syringe and tend to like the ritual of changing inks, but if that’s a hassle for you, I would stay away.

Reviewer’s Final Conclusion: Pilot Grenadine Custom 74

In summary, I really love this pen. I would read reviews on the Pilot Grenadine Custom 74 and thought it was overhyped, but it’s not. If you’re looking for your first gold nib, get this one. Pilot never lets you down, and the Custom 74 is a great overall fountain pen.
I posted the review with a reel of the pen and later this week I’ll post the pictures with a caption about possible gifts for the holiday season.