Lamy Safari Review: An Affordable First Step Into Fountain Pens

Introduction

Some products have a way of looking so good in other people’s setups that you eventually give in and buy one. That is exactly how the Lamy Safari ended up here, and it turned out to be a fitting first fountain pen: one of the least expensive options you can get, while still delivering the quality writing experience fountain pens are known for.

Unboxing and Setup

The Safari arrives in a small cardboard box, attached to a piece of paper you simply slide off. This review unit is the matte black finish, which came in at twenty dollars including a pack of five ink cartridges.

Setup is genuinely simple. The pen comes with a blue cartridge installed by default, but swapping in a black one takes only a moment: screw the barrel until you feel resistance, and continuing to tighten punctures the cartridge seal so ink can flow. There is also the option of a small plunger converter, which opens the door to large ink wells if you decide fountain pens are worth exploring further.

After installing a fresh cartridge, standing the pen nib-down for a few minutes helps the ink reach the feed before the first write.

The Writing Experience

On ordinary paper, the Safari writes beautifully. The grip section has a molded shape that positions your hand well, and it feels very comfortable over longer writing sessions. The nib quality is consistent across the range, so even at this entry-level price you are getting the same high-quality writing experience found on more expensive models.

There is one important caveat discovered during testing: the Safari does not pair well with water-resistant, coated notebook paper. The coated surface is not absorbent enough for the ink, and the writing experience suffers noticeably. On standard paper, though, the difference is like night and day.

Everyday Carry Appeal

As a potential daily-carry pen, the Safari has a lot going for it. The wire pocket clip is a highlight: it is very secure, curves in a way that pushes up into the fabric, and holds the pen firmly without damaging your pockets. The matte finish also feels great in hand and looks understated in a way that suits a work bag or jacket pocket just as well as a desk drawer.

Whether it becomes a true daily driver depends largely on your notebook. For anyone whose main notebook uses standard, absorbent paper, the Safari is easy to recommend as an everyday pen.

Buying Advice

At twenty dollars with five replacement cartridges included, the Safari is one of the best entry points into fountain pens. It comes from a reputable company, the writing nibs deliver a consistent high-quality experience across the lineup, and the simple cartridge system makes maintenance painless.

The main thing to check before buying is your paper. If you write primarily in standard notebooks, the Safari will likely earn a permanent spot in your collection. If your daily notebook uses coated, water-resistant paper, plan to use the pen elsewhere instead.

Conclusion

The Lamy Safari earns its reputation as a starter fountain pen: comfortable grip, quality nib, secure pocket clip, and a price that makes trying one almost painless. Just keep it away from coated water-resistant paper, and it should be a pen you reach for regularly.