The Original 3-Series features a sleek, sophisticated appearance housed in a rugged steel body for lasting performance. Enjoy the look and feel of our bestselling F-301 Retractable Ballpoint Pen but with the refined writing of a fountain pen. Refillable with the V Refill (Black and Blue)
93 reviews for V-301 Fountain Pen with Bonus Refill
Rated 4 out of 5
Elizabeth–
This is more a questions than a review. Is there a converter for the fountain pen so that I can use the bottled inks? I love having the option of using a variety of colors as well as, it hopeful is better for the environment.
Zebra Support–
Hi Elizabeth. Zebra does not offer a converter for the V-301.
Rated 1 out of 5
Bill DeYoung–
I have used your gel pens and love them. I saw this fountain pen today and I thought wow that’s cool. However I cannot get the ink to the point of the nib. Ink is present at the rear and I can blot some on a tissue but it won’t write.
Zebra Support–
Hi Bill, Sorry you are dissatisfied with your recent purchase of the v-301 fountain pen. Please email our customer service team at [email protected] so they can resolve this for you
Hours and hours the ink does not come out, when it come out, it is dry out quickly, such a pain to use the pen.
Zebra Support–
Hi Albert, Sorry you are dissatisfied with your recent purchase of the V-301 fountain pen. Please email our customer service team at [email protected] so they can resolve this for you
Rated 1 out of 5
Toe–
This pen did not even write I am so disappointed I had high hopes for this pen
Zebra Support–
Hi Toe, Sorry you are dissatisfied with your recent purchase of the V-301 fountain pen. Please email our customer service team at [email protected] so they can resolve this for you
Rated 5 out of 5
audra(verified owner)–
I love this pen. Great everyday writer that performs on a variety of paper. Ink placement is smooth and steady. Pen body is sturdy and light-weight. Comfortable.
Rated 1 out of 5
Gloria–
This pen has given me issues since the moment I bought it. The ink flow just doesn’t continue and constantly skips, when trying to go over it the nib rips the paper or there ends up being a huge glob of ink on the paper.
Zebra Support–
Hi Gloria, Sorry you are dissatisfied with your recent purchase of the V-301 fountain pen. Please email our customer service team at [email protected] so they can resolve this for you
Rated 5 out of 5
Chris–
Bought this pen on a whim and it has become may everyday work pen. I dropped it on the nib and thought it was done but after messing with it a bit it came back to life. I write heavy handed and this forces me to ease up. I love this pen.
Rated 5 out of 5
Jackson “Buy Lamy” Billson–
TO ANYONE HAVING ISSUES WITH THIS PEN:
BUY LAMY BRAND REFILLS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Zebra, this is a good pen. I like it a lot, I really do. But the refills you ship with it are really hit or miss. I’ve read reviews where people have good luck, but I’ve never had a Zebra branded refill last longer than a few minutes before I start to have feed issues, breaking lines, etc. A Lamy refill is much longer, and stays seated on the feed much better. I’ve had one of these pens with a Lamy blue refill, sat on a desk for 6 months completely unused, and it worked perfectly when I tried it again today. Ink still wet on the nib.
THIS IS LITERALLY THE BEST PEN FOR THE MONEY, BUT THE REFILLS ARE ABSOLUTE TRASH. Lamy refills are supposed to be proprietary, but in practice you’ll find that they actually fit on a wide variety of other pens. It’s a tight fit, but that only aids the performance, as it has a much better seal than the regular refills.
Rated 1 out of 5
Tanameir Jade–
It seems, like many others, I bought a pen that doesn’t work. I had to tear out a part of the pen to even get any ink flow. It’s a waste of money if you ask me. Which is disappointing because I was really excited to find this. I did some research and found that when you pop the cartridge open the ball that seals it goes back into the cartridge and when you tip the pen down the write it blocks the ink. I don’t think I will be buying one of these again.
Zebra Support–
Hi Tanameir, Sorry you are dissatisfied with your recent purchase of the v-301 fountain pen. Please email our customer service team at [email protected] so they can resolve this for you
Rated 1 out of 5
Aaron–
I have been trying to give this pen the benefit of the doubt but it has never ever written well and now has only gotten worse. Sucks spending $5-6 on a single pen for it to suck.
Zebra Support–
Hi Aaron, Sorry you are dissatisfied with the V-301 fountain pen. Please email our customer service team at [email protected] so they can resolve this for you.
Rated 5 out of 5
audreytaylor34–
I really love this pen. It’s helped me discover fountain pens and the world of bottled/fancy inks! At the moment, I’m so in love with the Zebra ink that while I am moving on to a more aesthetically pleasing fountain pen, I am considering using the refillable found at the website so I can continue to use the ink used in this product. Glad I found the official Zebra Zenzations website. I am someone who likes to stick to brands they are familiar with for the most part, particularly when buying products that will need to be refilled or restocked later on. I am pleased to make Zebra my main pen/writing supplies brand.
Rated 3 out of 5
Greg–
When the pen works it works great, for some reason I can not keep the ink flowing I love the pen tho does write smooth as ice when I can get it to write
Zebra Support–
Hi Greg, Sorry you are dissatisfied with your recent purchase of the V-301 fountain pen. Please email our customer service team at [email protected] so they can resolve this for you.
Rated 5 out of 5
Dan Nguyen–
I saw the video of your v 301 fountain pen, it is very nice but I want to test it why people didn’t like this pen. Can you tell me where should I get this pen like OfficeMax, Staples, or Walmart please? Thank you
Zebra Support–
As of 2019, this item is available at Walgreens and on our website.
Rated 4 out of 5
Clarence D.Shomette–
A nice writing everyday pen but the cap is worthless. No matter how I install it on the pen, it pops off into space. Suggestions or a replacement pen would be appreciated. Thank you
Zebra Support–
Hi Clarence, Sorry you are dissatisfied with your recent purchase of the v 301. Please email our customer service team at [email protected] so they can resolve this for you.
Rated 5 out of 5
O’Bryan–
I like this hooded nib model better than the older model. The pen works great; no leaking and no skipping. I use it so often as an EDC that the cap is wearing out, but it’s expected. For $4, this is a very reasonable quality pen.
Rated 5 out of 5
Paula(verified owner)–
Very satisfied with this pen. I did flip the pen upside down against the table surface when I was inserting the ink cartridge to make sure it clicks in place well. Followed the directions to shake it (up and down) before writing. Thus far, it has not acted weird since I started using it. I did but it direct from the Zebra USA website instead of a chain store. I’m it sure how long the pen will last as the nub is pretty thin, but so far so good.
Rated 4 out of 5
Donald–
Let me start by saying I love zebra pens. My normal day to day pen is a F-701. I recently picked up the v-301 to try my hand at a fountain, also with the hopes of it becoming my signature pen. So far I am happy as can be small learning curve when using a fountain for the first time but it seams to be great. My biggest question is when can I get a v-701? i would love to have the all metal styling
Rated 1 out of 5
Timothy(verified owner)–
I purchased this V-301 fountain pen from Zebra’s website in May. After arriving I inserted an ink refill in the pen and tried to use it and that’s where the problems and frustration began. It takes one to two minutes of shaking and scribbling with the pen after each uncap to get it to write. Works fine once I can get it going. I’ve tried everything I can think of to fix this problem but am at the point where I’m giving up. Disappointing for my first fountain pen, and also for a Zebra product.
Zebra Support–
Hi Timothy, Sorry you are dissatisfied with your recent purchase of the v-301 fountain pen. Please email our customer service team at [email protected] so they can resolve this for you.
Rated 5 out of 5
Michael Andreasen–
Gen 1 pens were horrible, beautiful great looking pens but wrote horribly(of you could even get it to write). On the gen 1 the plastic finger grip and ink housing prices was cheap and crappy and the cap wiggled non stop on either end of the pen. Gen 2 is even beautiful the plastic finger grip and housing unit is now a nice rubbery plastic peice and the cap is now wiggle free! Great improvement great pen affordable(cheapest one I’ve seen at a store to date) my one gripe is the style of nib, I like the classic style nibs this one has a hooded nib, but this one actually writes so it’s a subjective non senseical gripe. All in all great pen I’m glad I gave it another shot!
Rated 5 out of 5
Regina–
Love this pen!! It requires a light touch and a stream of thought from mind to hand. I love this pen. I have a more expensive Italian fountain pen, it’s all right, not as smooth as this little bundle of joy.
Rated 4 out of 5
Ed Fortenberry–
On my 2nd V-301 in a year. The first suffered a violent end by my frustrated hand as I drove the innocent nib deep into my desktop. For some reason though, I found myself at the pharmacy check out with my poor impulse control medicine and would you believe another V-301? I wondered what the performance standards were backing the guarantee as my frustration mounted yet again. Determined, I read other reviews, found them dubious, but, found “The Trick” of overcoming the “tempermental” part of this admittedly sexy writing instrument. What I found was the V-301 is a fine writing instrument and I am a clod with the heavy hands of a gorilla. After modifying my touch and a couple days training my hand, The V-301 responds as advertised, less the temperment. Zebra has a new loyal fan and made something I enjoy doing even more so. 5 star product!
Zebra Support–
Hi Ed, we appreciate your feedback. We are so happy that you enjoy our V-301 fountain pen!
Rated 4 out of 5
Michael–
I have one of these pens that I bought in 2015 and did have a bit of a problem getting it to write, however when I flipped the pen over (upside-down) it would fine with a crisp clean line. I also bought a lot of refills in black and have now run out. Three years of almost daily writing with the pen, I can’t seem to find black refills anywhere. Has Zebra quit making black refills for the V-301?
Rated 1 out of 5
Joan Mulligan–
I am unable to rate the pen, but the message said I had to rate it before I could submit my issue. I bought it at Walgreen’s, and I am unable to get the ink to flow into the pen. I am so very disappointed, as the pen “looks good”! I use a lot of special pens…I want this one to become a personal favorite. I use a lot of your pens, (along with other pens), as I do a lot of writing…for work, various church responsibilities, as well as family and personal use. What am I to do with this pen? Should I send it to your office? Please advise, as I want one of these pens, (possibly several), and Walgreen’s does not have any more of them. Thank you.
Zebra Support–
Thank you for reaching out. We apologize for any issues you have had with our V-301 fountain pen. Please reach out to our customer service team at [email protected] so we can resolve this for you. Thank you.
Rated 4 out of 5
David–
The pen works fine for me. I was delighted to find this pen in Duane Read as I missed my old drug store edition Scheaffer and inexpensive fountain pens seem to have disappeared from the market. It took a lot of priming to get it started. Seems to me that much of the problem is the ink. After using the first cartridge I tried other companies and almost every other brand gave a nicer flow. Improve your ink recipe is what I suggest.
Rated 4 out of 5
Cheap Pen Lover–
I love this pen but I’m glad I got it after I had some experience with fountain pens. Even expensive, gold nibbed pens can have issues and collectors are prepared to deal with them. When you buy one in a blister pack you don’t expect to have to have to fiddle with it, I guess. With all fountain pens I’ve found you have to be lucky – lucky that the nib is smooth and that the tines have just the right amount of separation for ink to flow mostly. 10 people can buy the same pen and half will rave about it and the other half will call it crap – that’s just the way it is.
This pen’s flow issues were fixed with a quick rinse of the nib and some scribbling on mylar. If that hadn’t done it I’d have gently pressed down on the nib to create space between the tines for ink to flow. And, honestly, other inks work better and don’t bleed through paper. This ink also has tiny bleed-thru on some of my staunchest Japanese paper but does fine on 24# printer paper, which is weird.
I do like this pen’s appearance, the fine nib (I’d say it is about as fine as a 0.5mm gel pen) and that I won’t have a heart attack if I lose it. Good value here on the site because I paid $4.99 for it in Walgreen’s. I took off a star for the barrel threading and for the cap not posting securely.
Rated 1 out of 5
Gonzalo Tirado–
I love this pen ever since i saw it and i got one and return it because it didn’t write well i got two more and i am using one and it writes better but not perfect i am talking about the first nib after that i bought three more with the new nib wich by the way works better but i dont like the design of this nib too small and thin and difficult to positioning to start writing please bring back the first nib and make it work i am big fan of this pen
Rated 5 out of 5
Jason(verified owner)–
I was reluctant to buy this pen, due to the poor reviews, but it works very well for me, right from the package, with no tricks needed. It’s become my favorite pen.
Rated 4 out of 5
Walter Beck–
I would rate it higher if it had a finer nib.
Rated 1 out of 5
Nicole Wilson–
I had previously purchased the older version of this pen and it found it’s way to the back of my desk drawer. After I found it again, I was excited to find some refills. I could not remember why I had stopped writing with this pen. The point was fine which I like and the weight was perfect. After going to the local pharmacy, I purchased the newer pen and refills. This pen is horrible. It skips constantly and the ink flow will stop in the middle of writing. I have torn holes in my paper just trying to get the pen to write. Now I remember why I threw it in the back of my desk drawer. This pen has the potential to be a great affordable pen but Zebra, you have missed the mark on this one.
Rated 4 out of 5
Drew–
As of my review in late 2017, the V-301 has certainly been improved. Now with a hooded nib and what looks like a felt feed system, the pen is much more consistent and feels to have an improved paper feel as well. The pen is lightweight, durable, inexpensive, and seem to perform just as well as many similarly marketed pens that cost easily 4x as much.
My only gripe is occasional difficulty with getting ink flow to start. I wish that a converter for bottled ink was available as I believe this startup issue to be a product of the ink formulation vs the new feed system. Once its going the pen is as good as any steel nib out there, even giving a slight line variation from F/M to M/B line, but not being able to put a line down right away can be taxing.
Also, can we get an ink window on the next version? That would really make this an awesome daily pen for me.
Rated 4 out of 5
jim–
I’m left handed and have a hard time finding pens that write well and dont make a huge mess. This pen is my favorite at the moment. I use it extensively every day and really like how my penmanship is using this. The only issue I find is that it is very sensitive to paper type. Cheap office paper bleeds and becomes illegible, it works best using my molskine notebook. That combination is my favorite daily note taking set.
Michael Wacewicz–
Hi Jim. Thank you for your feedback!
Rated 4 out of 5
Michael–
I have had this pen for about two years now and I too had trouble with the pen wanting to only write upside down, I continued to work on getting it to write right side up and have been able to do just that. I do have times where I have to scratch work the pen on scrap paper to write properly, but I have found that with a lot of fountain pens.
I have been having trouble finding the refills for the 301FP. I have found that some other fp style pens prefer the Zebra cartridge over the manufacturer suggested ones.
I would also like to suggest making more colors other than just black and blue. I like to write notes to people in a variety of colors, but this doesn’t come with a refillable cartridge for use with the bottled inks.
I do enjoy writing with this pen and have learned to even enjoy the quirks of it wanting to write upside down.
Rated 4 out of 5
Keith–
I figured I would try out the fountain pen since i like the other Zebra steel products so much. I had read a lot of negative reviews for this pen but most had been dated over a year ago. I figured Zebra must have corrected the problem by now. The pen can be a little finicky on occasion but usually if I just remove the refill and then reinsert it writes fine. It has the usual Zebra ink in it which dries quickly and doesn’t smear like other pens I have used in the past. If someone is looking to try a fountain pen out I would definitely recommend the Zebra V-301. Cant beat it for the price!
Rated 4 out of 5
Kristin Hlousek–
I “re-found” my pen after a very long time… due to moving and boxes and I forgot about it. I actually like my v-301 but the cap is seriously wicked hard to pull off and put on and I’m always worried and freaked I’m gonna snap or ruin the nib… but thankfully not yet and the fact it’s a cheap but solid pen in my opinion helps.. I just ran out of ink and was looking up cartidge refills and noticed that the pen has been remodeled and didn’t even know. I was looking into the new one but I only found med nib… does it come in Fine? And the cartridges for the “new” v-301… will they work with my old one?
Michael Wacewicz–
Hi Kristin. Yes, the new V-301 can use the same cartridge as the old V-301 Fountain Pen. Zebra only has one nib available, but we will let our product team know that there is interest in finer point sizes in fountain pens. Thank you.
Rated 5 out of 5
Robyn–
Had been looking for a fountain pen for quite some time and found one at Walgreens so I bought one! Was very satisfied with the way it writes! Just hoping I will be able to purchase the refills somewhere! Going to try Staples or Office Depot! Wrote a very important paper with it and had no problems!
Kadeem Myrick–
Hi Robyn. We’re glad you like our V-301! Refills are available on our website in black and blue.
Rated 1 out of 5
Andres–
I am from Mexico, and some time ago I bought the old version of this pen, it did not work, the same problem that other people had. So this time, I saw the pen again and I decided to give it another opportunity. When I opened the pen, to my surprise, there was a new updated version. But, when I tried to write, the pen did not work. I am very very disappointed, again, with this fountain pen. It’s a beautiful pen, but it doesn’t work. I would like to have this pen, but working…zebra, please help.
Rated 3 out of 5
Paul Hartman–
I’ve had both versions of this pen. The first version was, well, horrible. The new version Is much better. Ink flow seems good though it is a “dryer” writing pen. A good bit of feedback and the cartridge seems to last a good long while. All in all a much better pen then my old standard pen, the F-301. The only issue I have with the pen is that there does not seem to be a converter available and refills are not to be found where I live.
I recently purchased this pen as I have an obsession with such items, can’t walk past them…. I also had serious issue with getting the pen to write. Never one to give in to such a defeat, I carefully analyzed the situation and discovered that I was unable to apply adequate ‘force’ to pierce the ink cartridge by holding both pieces in my hands. With the ink refill in proper position, I rested the bottom (larger end) of the refill on the countertop and holding the grip, pressed down gently til the cartridge was properly engaged. The pen works perfectly!
Rated 1 out of 5
Dave–
This review is on March 1st 2017. I specifically went into the pharmacy store to buy a nice writi pen as I wanted to get one. The pen looked nice hangig in the aisle and professional. Once I opened it at home and attempted to use it it would not write. I mean not at all. I’m an adult and this pen is pretty straight forward but it just flat out doesn’t work. If you want to use this pen to retire effortlessly DO NOT BUY. STAY AWAY FROM THIS PEN. I am putting that in all caps so that hopefully it catches the eye of a would be buyer. I don’t want anyone else wasting their money this worthless “fountain” pen.
What a disappointment. This company MAKES PENS! And they have made one which costs a good amount for a pen, yet it doesn’t even write no matter how you try to use it.
Michael Wacewicz–
Hi Dave, sorry you are dissatisfied with your recent purchase. We have recently relaunched our V-301 fountain pen with a new and improved nib. Please fill out the contact form at https://www.zebrapen.com/contact-us/ and a customer service representative will be in touch shortly. Thank you.
Rated 1 out of 5
Wei C. Chang–
I owned almost 70 pens, from dirt cheap to super expensive ones, through the years of collection. And unfortunately this one is the number one in the button. Worst pen I have ever own.
The ink flow is unsteady, very annoying, not to mention smooth writing.
Michael Wacewicz–
Hi Wei. We are sorry to hear that. Zebra prides itself on high quality standards. Please fill out the contact form at https://www.zebrapen.com/contact-us/ and a customer service representative will be in touch with you shortly. Thank you.
Rated 5 out of 5
crane112491–
I must have gotten a pen with the new nibs because I have never had a problem writing with it. It puts down a good flow of ink, never skips, and requires little to no effort to write. I would like to eventually get a pen with a finer nib, but my current pen writes incredibly well.
Rated 1 out of 5
rupeshboyalla(verified owner)–
I’m a loyal customer to “Zebra” pens for a long time I have purchased many pens. With the “V-301” Fountain pens made my heart full of sadness, While going to India I purchased 4 pens $4.99USD each (on Feb 2016 From OfficeDepo Sunnyvale, CA) for my childhood teachers as a gift and presented. Last week(after 6 months) I received “Post Card” from my teacher saying that “Is US pens works only in the USA ?” (he explained why wrote letter to me don’t present those pens moving forward to anyone because they feel bad is gift fountain pen doesn’t write) I don’t have any word to say and enquired another teacher also he also complained ink flow is not proper and his words are ” First time in my life I saw fountain pen is not working”.
“Feeling very sad to show my face again to my teachers again”
From my experience in India, fountain pens are available from 2 cents to $500USD. All my childhood I used “Hero pen which is ~$1 USD” which works absolutely works fine and i have used any 2 cents fountain pens also writes very good. Sad to know ” Zebra V-301 fountain pen is not working”.
PS: I don’t know who will read my concern If someone reads this, please do let me know if the same thing happens for you or if you’re in my situation what you will do ? I hope you got so many compliments about “V-301 Fountain Pen” what is the alternative you guys are doing ?
Please refund my bill.
Thanks!
Michael Wacewicz–
We are sorry to hear that! Zebra prides itself on high quality standards. Please fill out the contact form at https://www.zebrapen.com/contact-us/ and a customer service representative will be in touch with you shortly. Thank you.
Rated 1 out of 5
Mrs.Hall–
So disappointed in this pen. I love all the other Zebra products that I have purchased except this one. It hardly writes more than a letter maybe two at a time. As my first fountain pen and so reasonably priced I’m really disappointed. I’ve spent days since buying this pen last week trying to get it to work. 🙁 suggestions?
Michael Wacewicz–
Hi Mrs. Hall. We are sorry to hear that! Zebra prides itself on high quality standards. Please fill out the contact form at https://www.zebrapen.com/contact-us/ and a customer service representative will be in touch with you shortly. Thank you
Rated 5 out of 5
JP–
The new and improved nib is awesome. I write a lot of thank yous as I work for a non profit. This pen makes my handwriting so much better and has a great flow. No soreness after long periods of writing. Happy they improved this pen! Love all the Zebra steel products.
Rated 1 out of 5
Luis Rodriguez–
This pen doesn’t write,I don’t like your steel pens but I wanted to prove a fountain pen, I was so happy when I found this, but sadly this pen is the worst I have because I can’t write with it.
Rated 3 out of 5
Joel L Turnham–
I bought the black one and loved it. purchased two more in blue and it is a different designed nib and doesnt write well. The nib design on the blue pen is always starved for ink no matter what I try. Buy the black style if you want to try it and you will be happy.
Rated 3 out of 5
Julie–
Hi there, is there a simple way to tell on the packaging (UPC code, wording, etc.) whether or not it’s the “improved” version of the pen or the “old” one? I’ve bought four of these over the years, two of them were lemons and I threw them out but I am happy with the other two. I would like to buy another but I don’t want to get stuck with another lemon if the store still has the old ones in stock.
Rated 1 out of 5
Allfarid Morales García–
This pen does not write. I bought one, then I went back to the store to get a replacement because I thought it was defective, but the new one does not write either.
With the money I paid for this I could have bought 25 chinese gel pens and at least 10 would have worked.
Never buy this pen. If you can’t afford a decent fountain pen, buy a Pilot Varsity or a Jinhao, both really superior and cheaper
Rated 4 out of 5
Brian–
An excellent pen, it writes beautifully. I have the black ink. Could make the cap fit a bit tighter tends to pop off when clipped to my pocket. Also looks to me there is more space to improve the size of the ink cartridge so it can hold more.
Rated 4 out of 5
fruitypuffs(verified owner)–
I honestly don’t know how to feel about it. I like it. I got one in black and blue. The one in black works great. I love it. The one in blue is a nicer color but works upside down which I don’t mind. The improved nib on the black one is fantastic but i like the old nib too. It’s probably not as efficient though
Rated 1 out of 5
Dru–
This pen is a waste of $5.00 please save your self the time and headache of this paper weight!!!! Currently looking for receipt to return it to the store!!! I’d rather buy 5 packs of paper mate ballpoint pens!!!
Rated 2 out of 5
Felix Taborda–
was looking for an affordable FP and yesterday I bought the Zebra V301 from Walgreens but after installing the ink cartridge have not been able to make write, after the reviews a realized it works upside-down and when right up writes a few words then stop again. Will keep trying for few days and if does not works, will return. Have Zebra came up with the improved model?
Also I rate a two star as model looks nice and the SS body and finish
Rated 2 out of 5
Brandon–
I bought the pen for y youngest son as my oldest has been getting into fountain pens, and he wanted to try them. I had a lot of issues getting the pen to work. I put the cartridge in and pressed it down to pop it, and let the pen sit nib down for hours. The pen would only sort of write and only at weird angles including with the nib upside down. Frustrated and determined a pulled the pen apart. Removed the ink cartridge and pulled the nib apart. I found that there is a felt stick running from the ink cartridge to the nib. I guess the ink is supposed to saturate it and provide ink to the nib, but it does a terrible job at it, it even tried to write with the pointy end of the felt and it barely put any ink on the paper. I used a tooth pick to press the felt piece out from the ink side and pulled it out from the feeder. I reassembled the pen and it now works much more like a fountain pen, the ink flow has been flawless (maybe even a little too wet).
I have the pen 2 stars because of the body of the pen, it feels nice in your hand.
Rated 5 out of 5
Celia–
I’ve been using a Zebra fountain pen for a few years now and am very pleased with it. The only time I have a problem is when the cartridge runs low. I just use a syringe to refill it with a good ink, pop it back in, and away we go again. I love my Zebra pen and are recommending to my friends that they try one too.
Rated 3 out of 5
Chris Hiatt–
For the price it is a decent pen. However, as a fountain pen I find that it writes little different than uni-ball onyx micro roller ball pen. I think they need to redesign the nib in order to give it more of a fountain pen feel and to produce the sort of style that a fountain pen normally does. I had a nice Lamy pen that has since gone missing. I think Zebra should perhaps look towards that particular nib design.
Rated 2 out of 5
Kevin–
I like how the pen writes, however, the pen has a problem keeping the cap on while storing in pocket. I had this pen in pocket only to discover and ink stain on my pants. Also, when putting the cap on the back of the pen to stow while writing it doesn’t stay on.
Rated 1 out of 5
Rodney Marois–
glad customer service sending me a replacement either inks or the pen.
Rated 1 out of 5
Rodney Marois–
skips like hell. love the pen though style though. I only use in my planner and does not leak threw pages so fare.
Rated 1 out of 5
J Milligan–
Purchased @Walgreens. I collect fountain pens and wanted to use daily. I could NOT get it write ONCE. Sad. May return.
Rated 5 out of 5
Josh–
I lived in Argentina, where “plumas” (fountain pens) are used all the time in schools. There, I enjoyed the pens I bought there, though low quality most of the time, and used up every last cartridge back here in the USA. I looked for other fountain pens, but couldn’t bring myself to spend the cash on them. But, I saw this at the store and thought I’d try it out.
I, too, had problems with it at first. I wrote right-side and upside-down. The written material it comes with says that the pens adjust to your style as you use it. I’ve used the same pen for 3 months now, and I have NO problems with it at all. I use it daily as a school teacher and in my own personal writings/journaling. My only complaint is I run out of ink…
So, it does take some time to get used to, but most good things take time.
Rated 1 out of 5
Maz–
I have used fountain pens for many years and I have to tell you this was one of the worst experiences I’ve had. Its very rough and stops writing half the time. I guess for the price I shouldn’t complain.
Rated 1 out of 5
KD–
I purchased one of these pens over a year ago and it never wrote more than a few words. As others have said it works better upside down which is not the point of a fountain pen. I read somewhere online that by using a converter (from another manufacturer) that the pen worked great. I purchased the converter and the pen did indeed write wonderfully so it is not the pen it is the ink cartridge. I purchased two more of the pens because I like how it writes but I had to purchase two additional converters in order to have the pen write consistently. I did try to use the pen cartridges that came with the new pens and the problem I experienced with the first pen happened again. So Zebra, the pen itself is great. You really need to work on the ink cartridge. The reason I am giving one star is because the pen doesn’t work well with the ink that is provided by Zebra. If I hadn’t found a way to use this with a converter, the pen would be useless. Zebra, perhaps you should offer a converter for the pen as well.
Rated 2 out of 5
Nicole–
Having the same issue with the pen I bought yesterday…only writes upside down. Sent an email to customer service. Otherwise great pen, just wish you offered it in purple, with purple ink.
Joyce Chan–
Hi Nicole,
Did you receive a reply from Customer Service regarding your V-301 issues? We guarantee the performance of all our writing instruments and will be launching an improved nib later this year.
Rated 2 out of 5
Nicole–
Just bought this pen today…have the same problem with it as everyone else…only writes upside down. Love it otherwise. Would like some purple ink though…and maybe a purple pen.
Rated 1 out of 5
Salvador som–
I just bought the v301 (1*11*2016) and only writes if you use it with the nib upside down. very disappointed!!!
Joyce Chan–
Hi Salvador, sorry to hear you are dissatisfied with the V-301 fountain pen. Zebra prides itself on high quality standards. Please email our customer service department at [email protected].
Rated 3 out of 5
BryanH–
I have experienced the same problems with my fountain pen that have been mentioned by others. It writes upside down only at times. I found that detaching the cartridge and pushing it back in lets me write as the pen is intended, and I love it when it does this. I would like to know if the new nib is out. I would definitely buy it if the nib has been fixed, I really like the pen a lot!
Joyce Chan–
Hi Bryan, thank you for your support of this item! We are releasing the V-301 with a new nib later this year. Keep an eye out!
Rated 4 out of 5
ABHIJIT NAIK–
I bought these pens (about 13 of them) in 2011 and gifted about 6 to friends who wrote a lot. Initially the pens sis not work as they kept going dry or I had to squeeze the refill ink with my teeth (yes the small thingy is that hard). So I dipped the pen in Parker’s Quink for about 24 hours. Now the pens work fine anytime I write with them. The ink dries pretty fast so I have to write and quickly replace the cap. Overall, I would definitely buy more of these for the price. Hope Zebra comes up with some more elegant and corporate style designs offered by other brands.
Rated 3 out of 5
Stephanie Michels–
I am an author and I love fountain pens. One of my fans gifted me with the Zebra V301 for Christmas. I was so excited about using it at my next booksigning. I put in the refill and started making circles on a scratch pad to prime it, but all I did was scratch the paper. For the life of me, I couldn’t get it to work. Finally, I came to your website and saw the reviews. I tried the pen with the nib down and lo and behold, I got ink! I am disappointed though because it not only looks awkward, it also doesn’t write smoothly. For such a well made appearing instrument, it’s definitely a let down.
Rated 1 out of 5
Luke–
There is no point in buying a pen that will not write! I LOVE the F-701 and the other Zebra products, I thought, I know, I will try a 301, the products ive had before are awesome, so I grab one from Walgreens, pop the cartridge in and BOOM …… only writes upside down ….. guuuurrrfreakinreat!
Joyce Chan–
Hi Luke, sorry you’re experiencing issues with the V-301. You are not the first to bring it to our attention and we’re listening. The V-301 has been redesigned with an improved nib, ready to ship later this year
Rated 1 out of 5
William Hudson–
Do not waste your money on this pen. Why … simply because it does not work. No ink flows to the nib. Shaking, licking the nib and even passionate pleading had no effect. If you like fountain pens, spend a bit more and buy a superior brand, definitely not a Zebra.
Joyce Chan–
Hi William, thank you for your feedback. We’re listening and have redesigned the nib, shipping to a retailer near you later this year.
Rated 2 out of 5
Anthony Waters–
Nice fountain pen for price, but does not write most of the time. Writes when held upside down, but it is vary rough and scratches the paper. how can i go about to get the replacement that addresses this issue? right now its just a paper weight. two stars because the pen doesnt write
Joyce Chan–
Hi there. Sorry you are dissatisfied with the V-301 Fountain Pen. This January we are releasing a new nib so at that time please email our customer service department at [email protected] for a replacement.
Rated 2 out of 5
No Zebra–
Nice fountain pen for price, but does not write most of the time. Writes when held upside down, but it is vary rough and scratches the paper.
Could you please let me know how would I go about returning it?
Joyce Chan–
Hi there. Unfortunately, if you purchased the V-301 from a retailer, you would have to go back to the retailer and return it there.
Rated 2 out of 5
Bryan–
I was amazed to find this pen in a local drugstore and tried it on a lark. I have developed a fountain pen habit over the past year, so it’s always good to find new, inexpensive ways to introduce people to the traditional style pen.
On opening and loading the cartridge, I was incredibly disappointed and frustrated. As other reviewers noted, the pen barely writes at the 45-degree angle recommended on the package, and only after considerable wrangling (tapping, holding the pen perpendicular, writing “upside down” with the feed facing up, etc.). I spent 30 minutes on this, hoping it was just “new pen” rust. Nope. Anyone who bought this, or received it, hoping to find an enjoyable experience with fountain pens would be turned away – and that’s what’s disappointing to me.
I note some responses that a new nib is coming in January. I wish I’d known that before I spent $4 on this desk ornament. I did not rate it one star because it’s a worthwhile effort, and the pen has a nice look and feel. But a pen must write to get a good review.
(I contrasted this with my Pilot Varsity disposable fountain pen that had been sitting in my desk for two weeks. The Pilot wrote consistently the moment I removed the cap.)
Joyce Chan–
Hi Bryan, sorry to hear you are dissatisfied with the V-301 fountain pen. Zebra prides itself on high quality standards. As you know, we are offering a new nib in January. At that time please email our customer service department at [email protected] for a replacement.
Rated 2 out of 5
JOSIE–
Just purchased this pen and it doesn’t work. Impulse buy ’cause I’m a fan of fountain pens. Disappointed to see the refill is $1.50 a cartridge. Recommend R&D work a little harder before releasing product. I wish I could have tested it, but trashed it.
Joyce Chan–
Hi Josie, sorry to hear you are dissatisfied with the V-301 fountain pen. Zebra prides itself on high quality standards. Please email our customer service department at [email protected].
Rated 4 out of 5
Jeet–
I bought about ten of these and have been using five and gifted the others. I love fountain pens and this one was the most affordable. Yes, it does have ink flow issues, but I simply dipped the pen in an ink bottle for about four to eight hours and the pen works fine every time I use it. Thank you Zebra for being part of my fountain pen collection.
Rated 1 out of 5
Fred–
I DO NOT LIKE IT…….worst pen i spent my money on…..I want my money back
Joyce Chan–
Hi Fred. Sorry to hear you are dissatisfied with the V-301 Fountain Pen. Please email our customer service department at [email protected]
Rated 3 out of 5
Becca–
Same experience as others listed above. When it’s flowing it works nicely and has a sturdy feel to it, however, it frequently stops writing and will be difficult regarding placement. I don’t mind using it for doodling but would never utilize it for taking notes or writing reports required for my job. Disappointed since Zebra has always made reliable products.
Rated 1 out of 5
chris–
The pen only writes thin line when the nib upside down. Usually with fountain pen, the metal parts on the top side to write.
I was hoping this is a good one, I bought a pen and a refill package.
See video showing the problem here https://youtu.be/tIZbU6dVt3U
How do I get a refund on this bad pen?
Rated 2 out of 5
Randy A–
Beautiful Design! It’s comfortable to hold. Unfortunately as others have stated it doesn’t function properly. The issue lies in the cartridge. There’s guides out there on how to fix this yourself, but needless to say only enthusiasts will probably go through the trouble. When modded the pen works wonderfully, and I rather enjoy it. When a fixed version is released I’ll be purchasing one! For now, 2 stars. I have no idea how this made it to production as it is not the standard I usually expect from Zebra.
Rated 1 out of 5
Brian–
Found the pen at a Walgreen’s, chose it because it was the nicest looking one of the bunch and I had no prior experience with it. Unfortunately, the pen wrote terribly, especially for someone who not only wants, but needs to write fast. Not very smooth, and anytime you needed to make some sort of circle (an a, o, etc.), the pen would not even show up. Took about 5 seconds to write a single letter at times. Big waste of money in my opinion unless you want to just keep it on your desk or something – it has a nice look to it.
Rated 1 out of 5
Cayde–
Will be returning it as soon as possible. Does not write at all. I tried for half an hour and watched many videos of people writing with this pen, but the one I bought will not write.
Rated 4 out of 5
melanie–
Found the fountain pen in a drug store by accident. Love the pen. very substantial. But cannot find refills. went on zebra website and they were $1.50 each! too much. Also would like a fine point.
Rated 2 out of 5
White Stripes–
The pen only writes when I hold the nib “top down” – the opposite of every other fountain pen I’ve used. Since this manner is contrary to how I expect to write, I’m returning the pen. I was excited to find a fountain pen that could be “a beater” but if I have to think how to write, then it’s a no-go. Seems nice otherwise. I thought it would take my other standard cartridges without an issue, but that appears to be moot now.
Joyce Chan–
Hi White Stripes, thank you for your feedback! Our product development team has made improvements to the nib of our V-301 fountain pen and will be available in stores starting next year for black ink.
Rated 1 out of 5
Spencer N–
The first one I bought did not work. The replacement only writes with the point upside down. What is going on?
Joyce Chan–
Hi Spencer, we’re sorry to hear that you’re having trouble with our V-301 fountain pen. Our product development team is in the process of introducing an improved nib and will be available in stores next year.
Rated 2 out of 5
KG–
The pen feels good in hand, but does’nt write at all sometimes. You really have to work it to write a word, then it quits. If it writes at all it’s only when you hold it upside down. Wont buy another one.
Joyce Chan–
We’re sorry to hear that you’re experiencing problems with our V-301 fountain pen. Our product development team has since improved the nib to eliminate these issues and will be available in stores as early as January of next year.
Rated 5 out of 5
Crystal–
I own a number of fountain pens from a few manufacturers and this pen is excellent for the price. The only issue is with the cartridges: I cannot get any in my local area and I would like to see 6 per package, not just two because I own a few of the fountain pens and roller ball pens in both black and blue
Rated 4 out of 5
Walt–
Nice fountain pen for price. Would like to see finer point and user refillable cartridge to be able to use special color inks. Its a great companion to the other Zebra writing implements I use
Rated 5 out of 5
Eddie Aucoin–
Haven’t had a fountain pen in many years. Love this pen. Works great for an under $4 pen. Fun!
Rated 1 out of 5
Hector–
I bought it thinking that it would be as good as their other products, but the pen seems incorrectly manufactured. The fib seems to flimsy to maintain the ink. Somehow, it writes when you invert the fib upside-down.
Nonetheless, it is a beautiful pen, and has a good weight to it.
Rated 5 out of 5
Bill Holt–
love the pen, but can I get Green ink refills?
Rated 5 out of 5
Avery–
It is a very good pen for everyday writing and drawing, the only complaint is that the pocket bar picks up finger grease VERY easy. But overall it is a very nice pen for $4.
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Elizabeth –
This is more a questions than a review. Is there a converter for the fountain pen so that I can use the bottled inks? I love having the option of using a variety of colors as well as, it hopeful is better for the environment.
Zebra Support –
Hi Elizabeth. Zebra does not offer a converter for the V-301.
Bill DeYoung –
I have used your gel pens and love them. I saw this fountain pen today and I thought wow that’s cool. However I cannot get the ink to the point of the nib. Ink is present at the rear and I can blot some on a tissue but it won’t write.
Zebra Support –
Hi Bill, Sorry you are dissatisfied with your recent purchase of the v-301 fountain pen. Please email our customer service team at [email protected] so they can resolve this for you
Suzanne –
Great pen! I read it only comes in one size nib ( https://unsharpen.com/pen/zebra-v-301/ ) that’s true?
Albert Li –
Hours and hours the ink does not come out, when it come out, it is dry out quickly, such a pain to use the pen.
Zebra Support –
Hi Albert, Sorry you are dissatisfied with your recent purchase of the V-301 fountain pen. Please email our customer service team at [email protected] so they can resolve this for you
Toe –
This pen did not even write I am so disappointed I had high hopes for this pen
Zebra Support –
Hi Toe, Sorry you are dissatisfied with your recent purchase of the V-301 fountain pen. Please email our customer service team at [email protected] so they can resolve this for you
audra (verified owner) –
I love this pen. Great everyday writer that performs on a variety of paper. Ink placement is smooth and steady. Pen body is sturdy and light-weight. Comfortable.
Gloria –
This pen has given me issues since the moment I bought it. The ink flow just doesn’t continue and constantly skips, when trying to go over it the nib rips the paper or there ends up being a huge glob of ink on the paper.
Zebra Support –
Hi Gloria, Sorry you are dissatisfied with your recent purchase of the V-301 fountain pen. Please email our customer service team at [email protected] so they can resolve this for you
Chris –
Bought this pen on a whim and it has become may everyday work pen. I dropped it on the nib and thought it was done but after messing with it a bit it came back to life. I write heavy handed and this forces me to ease up. I love this pen.
Jackson “Buy Lamy” Billson –
TO ANYONE HAVING ISSUES WITH THIS PEN:
BUY LAMY BRAND REFILLS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Zebra, this is a good pen. I like it a lot, I really do. But the refills you ship with it are really hit or miss. I’ve read reviews where people have good luck, but I’ve never had a Zebra branded refill last longer than a few minutes before I start to have feed issues, breaking lines, etc. A Lamy refill is much longer, and stays seated on the feed much better. I’ve had one of these pens with a Lamy blue refill, sat on a desk for 6 months completely unused, and it worked perfectly when I tried it again today. Ink still wet on the nib.
THIS IS LITERALLY THE BEST PEN FOR THE MONEY, BUT THE REFILLS ARE ABSOLUTE TRASH. Lamy refills are supposed to be proprietary, but in practice you’ll find that they actually fit on a wide variety of other pens. It’s a tight fit, but that only aids the performance, as it has a much better seal than the regular refills.
Tanameir Jade –
It seems, like many others, I bought a pen that doesn’t work. I had to tear out a part of the pen to even get any ink flow. It’s a waste of money if you ask me. Which is disappointing because I was really excited to find this. I did some research and found that when you pop the cartridge open the ball that seals it goes back into the cartridge and when you tip the pen down the write it blocks the ink. I don’t think I will be buying one of these again.
Zebra Support –
Hi Tanameir, Sorry you are dissatisfied with your recent purchase of the v-301 fountain pen. Please email our customer service team at [email protected] so they can resolve this for you
Aaron –
I have been trying to give this pen the benefit of the doubt but it has never ever written well and now has only gotten worse. Sucks spending $5-6 on a single pen for it to suck.
Zebra Support –
Hi Aaron, Sorry you are dissatisfied with the V-301 fountain pen. Please email our customer service team at [email protected] so they can resolve this for you.
audreytaylor34 –
I really love this pen. It’s helped me discover fountain pens and the world of bottled/fancy inks! At the moment, I’m so in love with the Zebra ink that while I am moving on to a more aesthetically pleasing fountain pen, I am considering using the refillable found at the website so I can continue to use the ink used in this product. Glad I found the official Zebra Zenzations website. I am someone who likes to stick to brands they are familiar with for the most part, particularly when buying products that will need to be refilled or restocked later on. I am pleased to make Zebra my main pen/writing supplies brand.
Greg –
When the pen works it works great, for some reason I can not keep the ink flowing I love the pen tho does write smooth as ice when I can get it to write
Zebra Support –
Hi Greg, Sorry you are dissatisfied with your recent purchase of the V-301 fountain pen. Please email our customer service team at [email protected] so they can resolve this for you.
Dan Nguyen –
I saw the video of your v 301 fountain pen, it is very nice but I want to test it why people didn’t like this pen. Can you tell me where should I get this pen like OfficeMax, Staples, or Walmart please? Thank you
Zebra Support –
As of 2019, this item is available at Walgreens and on our website.
Clarence D.Shomette –
A nice writing everyday pen but the cap is worthless. No matter how I install it on the pen, it pops off into space. Suggestions or a replacement pen would be appreciated. Thank you
Zebra Support –
Hi Clarence, Sorry you are dissatisfied with your recent purchase of the v 301. Please email our customer service team at [email protected] so they can resolve this for you.
O’Bryan –
I like this hooded nib model better than the older model. The pen works great; no leaking and no skipping. I use it so often as an EDC that the cap is wearing out, but it’s expected. For $4, this is a very reasonable quality pen.
Paula (verified owner) –
Very satisfied with this pen. I did flip the pen upside down against the table surface when I was inserting the ink cartridge to make sure it clicks in place well. Followed the directions to shake it (up and down) before writing. Thus far, it has not acted weird since I started using it. I did but it direct from the Zebra USA website instead of a chain store. I’m it sure how long the pen will last as the nub is pretty thin, but so far so good.
Donald –
Let me start by saying I love zebra pens. My normal day to day pen is a F-701. I recently picked up the v-301 to try my hand at a fountain, also with the hopes of it becoming my signature pen. So far I am happy as can be small learning curve when using a fountain for the first time but it seams to be great. My biggest question is when can I get a v-701? i would love to have the all metal styling
Timothy (verified owner) –
I purchased this V-301 fountain pen from Zebra’s website in May. After arriving I inserted an ink refill in the pen and tried to use it and that’s where the problems and frustration began. It takes one to two minutes of shaking and scribbling with the pen after each uncap to get it to write. Works fine once I can get it going. I’ve tried everything I can think of to fix this problem but am at the point where I’m giving up. Disappointing for my first fountain pen, and also for a Zebra product.
Zebra Support –
Hi Timothy, Sorry you are dissatisfied with your recent purchase of the v-301 fountain pen. Please email our customer service team at [email protected] so they can resolve this for you.
Michael Andreasen –
Gen 1 pens were horrible, beautiful great looking pens but wrote horribly(of you could even get it to write). On the gen 1 the plastic finger grip and ink housing prices was cheap and crappy and the cap wiggled non stop on either end of the pen. Gen 2 is even beautiful the plastic finger grip and housing unit is now a nice rubbery plastic peice and the cap is now wiggle free! Great improvement great pen affordable(cheapest one I’ve seen at a store to date) my one gripe is the style of nib, I like the classic style nibs this one has a hooded nib, but this one actually writes so it’s a subjective non senseical gripe. All in all great pen I’m glad I gave it another shot!
Regina –
Love this pen!! It requires a light touch and a stream of thought from mind to hand. I love this pen. I have a more expensive Italian fountain pen, it’s all right, not as smooth as this little bundle of joy.
Ed Fortenberry –
On my 2nd V-301 in a year. The first suffered a violent end by my frustrated hand as I drove the innocent nib deep into my desktop. For some reason though, I found myself at the pharmacy check out with my poor impulse control medicine and would you believe another V-301? I wondered what the performance standards were backing the guarantee as my frustration mounted yet again. Determined, I read other reviews, found them dubious, but, found “The Trick” of overcoming the “tempermental” part of this admittedly sexy writing instrument. What I found was the V-301 is a fine writing instrument and I am a clod with the heavy hands of a gorilla. After modifying my touch and a couple days training my hand, The V-301 responds as advertised, less the temperment. Zebra has a new loyal fan and made something I enjoy doing even more so. 5 star product!
Zebra Support –
Hi Ed, we appreciate your feedback. We are so happy that you enjoy our V-301 fountain pen!
Michael –
I have one of these pens that I bought in 2015 and did have a bit of a problem getting it to write, however when I flipped the pen over (upside-down) it would fine with a crisp clean line. I also bought a lot of refills in black and have now run out. Three years of almost daily writing with the pen, I can’t seem to find black refills anywhere. Has Zebra quit making black refills for the V-301?
Joan Mulligan –
I am unable to rate the pen, but the message said I had to rate it before I could submit my issue. I bought it at Walgreen’s, and I am unable to get the ink to flow into the pen. I am so very disappointed, as the pen “looks good”! I use a lot of special pens…I want this one to become a personal favorite. I use a lot of your pens, (along with other pens), as I do a lot of writing…for work, various church responsibilities, as well as family and personal use. What am I to do with this pen? Should I send it to your office? Please advise, as I want one of these pens, (possibly several), and Walgreen’s does not have any more of them. Thank you.
Zebra Support –
Thank you for reaching out. We apologize for any issues you have had with our V-301 fountain pen. Please reach out to our customer service team at [email protected] so we can resolve this for you. Thank you.
David –
The pen works fine for me. I was delighted to find this pen in Duane Read as I missed my old drug store edition Scheaffer and inexpensive fountain pens seem to have disappeared from the market. It took a lot of priming to get it started. Seems to me that much of the problem is the ink. After using the first cartridge I tried other companies and almost every other brand gave a nicer flow. Improve your ink recipe is what I suggest.
Cheap Pen Lover –
I love this pen but I’m glad I got it after I had some experience with fountain pens. Even expensive, gold nibbed pens can have issues and collectors are prepared to deal with them. When you buy one in a blister pack you don’t expect to have to have to fiddle with it, I guess. With all fountain pens I’ve found you have to be lucky – lucky that the nib is smooth and that the tines have just the right amount of separation for ink to flow mostly. 10 people can buy the same pen and half will rave about it and the other half will call it crap – that’s just the way it is.
This pen’s flow issues were fixed with a quick rinse of the nib and some scribbling on mylar. If that hadn’t done it I’d have gently pressed down on the nib to create space between the tines for ink to flow. And, honestly, other inks work better and don’t bleed through paper. This ink also has tiny bleed-thru on some of my staunchest Japanese paper but does fine on 24# printer paper, which is weird.
I do like this pen’s appearance, the fine nib (I’d say it is about as fine as a 0.5mm gel pen) and that I won’t have a heart attack if I lose it. Good value here on the site because I paid $4.99 for it in Walgreen’s. I took off a star for the barrel threading and for the cap not posting securely.
Gonzalo Tirado –
I love this pen ever since i saw it and i got one and return it because it didn’t write well i got two more and i am using one and it writes better but not perfect i am talking about the first nib after that i bought three more with the new nib wich by the way works better but i dont like the design of this nib too small and thin and difficult to positioning to start writing please bring back the first nib and make it work i am big fan of this pen
Jason (verified owner) –
I was reluctant to buy this pen, due to the poor reviews, but it works very well for me, right from the package, with no tricks needed. It’s become my favorite pen.
Walter Beck –
I would rate it higher if it had a finer nib.
Nicole Wilson –
I had previously purchased the older version of this pen and it found it’s way to the back of my desk drawer. After I found it again, I was excited to find some refills. I could not remember why I had stopped writing with this pen. The point was fine which I like and the weight was perfect. After going to the local pharmacy, I purchased the newer pen and refills. This pen is horrible. It skips constantly and the ink flow will stop in the middle of writing. I have torn holes in my paper just trying to get the pen to write. Now I remember why I threw it in the back of my desk drawer. This pen has the potential to be a great affordable pen but Zebra, you have missed the mark on this one.
Drew –
As of my review in late 2017, the V-301 has certainly been improved. Now with a hooded nib and what looks like a felt feed system, the pen is much more consistent and feels to have an improved paper feel as well. The pen is lightweight, durable, inexpensive, and seem to perform just as well as many similarly marketed pens that cost easily 4x as much.
My only gripe is occasional difficulty with getting ink flow to start. I wish that a converter for bottled ink was available as I believe this startup issue to be a product of the ink formulation vs the new feed system. Once its going the pen is as good as any steel nib out there, even giving a slight line variation from F/M to M/B line, but not being able to put a line down right away can be taxing.
Also, can we get an ink window on the next version? That would really make this an awesome daily pen for me.
jim –
I’m left handed and have a hard time finding pens that write well and dont make a huge mess. This pen is my favorite at the moment. I use it extensively every day and really like how my penmanship is using this. The only issue I find is that it is very sensitive to paper type. Cheap office paper bleeds and becomes illegible, it works best using my molskine notebook. That combination is my favorite daily note taking set.
Michael Wacewicz –
Hi Jim. Thank you for your feedback!
Michael –
I have had this pen for about two years now and I too had trouble with the pen wanting to only write upside down, I continued to work on getting it to write right side up and have been able to do just that. I do have times where I have to scratch work the pen on scrap paper to write properly, but I have found that with a lot of fountain pens.
I have been having trouble finding the refills for the 301FP. I have found that some other fp style pens prefer the Zebra cartridge over the manufacturer suggested ones.
I would also like to suggest making more colors other than just black and blue. I like to write notes to people in a variety of colors, but this doesn’t come with a refillable cartridge for use with the bottled inks.
I do enjoy writing with this pen and have learned to even enjoy the quirks of it wanting to write upside down.
Keith –
I figured I would try out the fountain pen since i like the other Zebra steel products so much. I had read a lot of negative reviews for this pen but most had been dated over a year ago. I figured Zebra must have corrected the problem by now. The pen can be a little finicky on occasion but usually if I just remove the refill and then reinsert it writes fine. It has the usual Zebra ink in it which dries quickly and doesn’t smear like other pens I have used in the past. If someone is looking to try a fountain pen out I would definitely recommend the Zebra V-301. Cant beat it for the price!
Kristin Hlousek –
I “re-found” my pen after a very long time… due to moving and boxes and I forgot about it. I actually like my v-301 but the cap is seriously wicked hard to pull off and put on and I’m always worried and freaked I’m gonna snap or ruin the nib… but thankfully not yet and the fact it’s a cheap but solid pen in my opinion helps.. I just ran out of ink and was looking up cartidge refills and noticed that the pen has been remodeled and didn’t even know. I was looking into the new one but I only found med nib… does it come in Fine? And the cartridges for the “new” v-301… will they work with my old one?
Michael Wacewicz –
Hi Kristin. Yes, the new V-301 can use the same cartridge as the old V-301 Fountain Pen. Zebra only has one nib available, but we will let our product team know that there is interest in finer point sizes in fountain pens. Thank you.
Robyn –
Had been looking for a fountain pen for quite some time and found one at Walgreens so I bought one! Was very satisfied with the way it writes! Just hoping I will be able to purchase the refills somewhere! Going to try Staples or Office Depot! Wrote a very important paper with it and had no problems!
Kadeem Myrick –
Hi Robyn. We’re glad you like our V-301! Refills are available on our website in black and blue.
Andres –
I am from Mexico, and some time ago I bought the old version of this pen, it did not work, the same problem that other people had. So this time, I saw the pen again and I decided to give it another opportunity. When I opened the pen, to my surprise, there was a new updated version. But, when I tried to write, the pen did not work. I am very very disappointed, again, with this fountain pen. It’s a beautiful pen, but it doesn’t work. I would like to have this pen, but working…zebra, please help.
Paul Hartman –
I’ve had both versions of this pen. The first version was, well, horrible. The new version Is much better. Ink flow seems good though it is a “dryer” writing pen. A good bit of feedback and the cartridge seems to last a good long while. All in all a much better pen then my old standard pen, the F-301. The only issue I have with the pen is that there does not seem to be a converter available and refills are not to be found where I live.
Michael Wacewicz –
Hi Paul, you can find the refills for our V-301 here: https://www.zebrapen.com/product/v-301-refill-black-2pk/
Becky Keeney –
I recently purchased this pen as I have an obsession with such items, can’t walk past them…. I also had serious issue with getting the pen to write. Never one to give in to such a defeat, I carefully analyzed the situation and discovered that I was unable to apply adequate ‘force’ to pierce the ink cartridge by holding both pieces in my hands. With the ink refill in proper position, I rested the bottom (larger end) of the refill on the countertop and holding the grip, pressed down gently til the cartridge was properly engaged. The pen works perfectly!
Dave –
This review is on March 1st 2017. I specifically went into the pharmacy store to buy a nice writi pen as I wanted to get one. The pen looked nice hangig in the aisle and professional. Once I opened it at home and attempted to use it it would not write. I mean not at all. I’m an adult and this pen is pretty straight forward but it just flat out doesn’t work. If you want to use this pen to retire effortlessly DO NOT BUY. STAY AWAY FROM THIS PEN. I am putting that in all caps so that hopefully it catches the eye of a would be buyer. I don’t want anyone else wasting their money this worthless “fountain” pen.
What a disappointment. This company MAKES PENS! And they have made one which costs a good amount for a pen, yet it doesn’t even write no matter how you try to use it.
Michael Wacewicz –
Hi Dave, sorry you are dissatisfied with your recent purchase. We have recently relaunched our V-301 fountain pen with a new and improved nib. Please fill out the contact form at https://www.zebrapen.com/contact-us/ and a customer service representative will be in touch shortly. Thank you.
Wei C. Chang –
I owned almost 70 pens, from dirt cheap to super expensive ones, through the years of collection. And unfortunately this one is the number one in the button. Worst pen I have ever own.
The ink flow is unsteady, very annoying, not to mention smooth writing.
Michael Wacewicz –
Hi Wei. We are sorry to hear that. Zebra prides itself on high quality standards. Please fill out the contact form at https://www.zebrapen.com/contact-us/ and a customer service representative will be in touch with you shortly. Thank you.
crane112491 –
I must have gotten a pen with the new nibs because I have never had a problem writing with it. It puts down a good flow of ink, never skips, and requires little to no effort to write. I would like to eventually get a pen with a finer nib, but my current pen writes incredibly well.
rupeshboyalla (verified owner) –
I’m a loyal customer to “Zebra” pens for a long time I have purchased many pens. With the “V-301” Fountain pens made my heart full of sadness, While going to India I purchased 4 pens $4.99USD each (on Feb 2016 From OfficeDepo Sunnyvale, CA) for my childhood teachers as a gift and presented. Last week(after 6 months) I received “Post Card” from my teacher saying that “Is US pens works only in the USA ?” (he explained why wrote letter to me don’t present those pens moving forward to anyone because they feel bad is gift fountain pen doesn’t write) I don’t have any word to say and enquired another teacher also he also complained ink flow is not proper and his words are ” First time in my life I saw fountain pen is not working”.
“Feeling very sad to show my face again to my teachers again”
From my experience in India, fountain pens are available from 2 cents to $500USD. All my childhood I used “Hero pen which is ~$1 USD” which works absolutely works fine and i have used any 2 cents fountain pens also writes very good. Sad to know ” Zebra V-301 fountain pen is not working”.
PS: I don’t know who will read my concern If someone reads this, please do let me know if the same thing happens for you or if you’re in my situation what you will do ? I hope you got so many compliments about “V-301 Fountain Pen” what is the alternative you guys are doing ?
Please refund my bill.
Thanks!
Michael Wacewicz –
We are sorry to hear that! Zebra prides itself on high quality standards. Please fill out the contact form at https://www.zebrapen.com/contact-us/ and a customer service representative will be in touch with you shortly. Thank you.
Mrs.Hall –
So disappointed in this pen. I love all the other Zebra products that I have purchased except this one. It hardly writes more than a letter maybe two at a time. As my first fountain pen and so reasonably priced I’m really disappointed. I’ve spent days since buying this pen last week trying to get it to work. 🙁 suggestions?
Michael Wacewicz –
Hi Mrs. Hall. We are sorry to hear that! Zebra prides itself on high quality standards. Please fill out the contact form at https://www.zebrapen.com/contact-us/ and a customer service representative will be in touch with you shortly. Thank you
JP –
The new and improved nib is awesome. I write a lot of thank yous as I work for a non profit. This pen makes my handwriting so much better and has a great flow. No soreness after long periods of writing. Happy they improved this pen! Love all the Zebra steel products.
Luis Rodriguez –
This pen doesn’t write,I don’t like your steel pens but I wanted to prove a fountain pen, I was so happy when I found this, but sadly this pen is the worst I have because I can’t write with it.
Joel L Turnham –
I bought the black one and loved it. purchased two more in blue and it is a different designed nib and doesnt write well. The nib design on the blue pen is always starved for ink no matter what I try. Buy the black style if you want to try it and you will be happy.
Julie –
Hi there, is there a simple way to tell on the packaging (UPC code, wording, etc.) whether or not it’s the “improved” version of the pen or the “old” one? I’ve bought four of these over the years, two of them were lemons and I threw them out but I am happy with the other two. I would like to buy another but I don’t want to get stuck with another lemon if the store still has the old ones in stock.
Allfarid Morales García –
This pen does not write. I bought one, then I went back to the store to get a replacement because I thought it was defective, but the new one does not write either.
With the money I paid for this I could have bought 25 chinese gel pens and at least 10 would have worked.
Never buy this pen. If you can’t afford a decent fountain pen, buy a Pilot Varsity or a Jinhao, both really superior and cheaper
Brian –
An excellent pen, it writes beautifully. I have the black ink. Could make the cap fit a bit tighter tends to pop off when clipped to my pocket. Also looks to me there is more space to improve the size of the ink cartridge so it can hold more.
fruitypuffs (verified owner) –
I honestly don’t know how to feel about it. I like it. I got one in black and blue. The one in black works great. I love it. The one in blue is a nicer color but works upside down which I don’t mind. The improved nib on the black one is fantastic but i like the old nib too. It’s probably not as efficient though
Dru –
This pen is a waste of $5.00 please save your self the time and headache of this paper weight!!!! Currently looking for receipt to return it to the store!!! I’d rather buy 5 packs of paper mate ballpoint pens!!!
Felix Taborda –
was looking for an affordable FP and yesterday I bought the Zebra V301 from Walgreens but after installing the ink cartridge have not been able to make write, after the reviews a realized it works upside-down and when right up writes a few words then stop again. Will keep trying for few days and if does not works, will return. Have Zebra came up with the improved model?
Also I rate a two star as model looks nice and the SS body and finish
Brandon –
I bought the pen for y youngest son as my oldest has been getting into fountain pens, and he wanted to try them. I had a lot of issues getting the pen to work. I put the cartridge in and pressed it down to pop it, and let the pen sit nib down for hours. The pen would only sort of write and only at weird angles including with the nib upside down. Frustrated and determined a pulled the pen apart. Removed the ink cartridge and pulled the nib apart. I found that there is a felt stick running from the ink cartridge to the nib. I guess the ink is supposed to saturate it and provide ink to the nib, but it does a terrible job at it, it even tried to write with the pointy end of the felt and it barely put any ink on the paper. I used a tooth pick to press the felt piece out from the ink side and pulled it out from the feeder. I reassembled the pen and it now works much more like a fountain pen, the ink flow has been flawless (maybe even a little too wet).
I have the pen 2 stars because of the body of the pen, it feels nice in your hand.
Celia –
I’ve been using a Zebra fountain pen for a few years now and am very pleased with it. The only time I have a problem is when the cartridge runs low. I just use a syringe to refill it with a good ink, pop it back in, and away we go again. I love my Zebra pen and are recommending to my friends that they try one too.
Chris Hiatt –
For the price it is a decent pen. However, as a fountain pen I find that it writes little different than uni-ball onyx micro roller ball pen. I think they need to redesign the nib in order to give it more of a fountain pen feel and to produce the sort of style that a fountain pen normally does. I had a nice Lamy pen that has since gone missing. I think Zebra should perhaps look towards that particular nib design.
Kevin –
I like how the pen writes, however, the pen has a problem keeping the cap on while storing in pocket. I had this pen in pocket only to discover and ink stain on my pants. Also, when putting the cap on the back of the pen to stow while writing it doesn’t stay on.
Rodney Marois –
glad customer service sending me a replacement either inks or the pen.
Rodney Marois –
skips like hell. love the pen though style though. I only use in my planner and does not leak threw pages so fare.
J Milligan –
Purchased @Walgreens. I collect fountain pens and wanted to use daily. I could NOT get it write ONCE. Sad. May return.
Josh –
I lived in Argentina, where “plumas” (fountain pens) are used all the time in schools. There, I enjoyed the pens I bought there, though low quality most of the time, and used up every last cartridge back here in the USA. I looked for other fountain pens, but couldn’t bring myself to spend the cash on them. But, I saw this at the store and thought I’d try it out.
I, too, had problems with it at first. I wrote right-side and upside-down. The written material it comes with says that the pens adjust to your style as you use it. I’ve used the same pen for 3 months now, and I have NO problems with it at all. I use it daily as a school teacher and in my own personal writings/journaling. My only complaint is I run out of ink…
So, it does take some time to get used to, but most good things take time.
Maz –
I have used fountain pens for many years and I have to tell you this was one of the worst experiences I’ve had. Its very rough and stops writing half the time. I guess for the price I shouldn’t complain.
KD –
I purchased one of these pens over a year ago and it never wrote more than a few words. As others have said it works better upside down which is not the point of a fountain pen. I read somewhere online that by using a converter (from another manufacturer) that the pen worked great. I purchased the converter and the pen did indeed write wonderfully so it is not the pen it is the ink cartridge. I purchased two more of the pens because I like how it writes but I had to purchase two additional converters in order to have the pen write consistently. I did try to use the pen cartridges that came with the new pens and the problem I experienced with the first pen happened again. So Zebra, the pen itself is great. You really need to work on the ink cartridge. The reason I am giving one star is because the pen doesn’t work well with the ink that is provided by Zebra. If I hadn’t found a way to use this with a converter, the pen would be useless. Zebra, perhaps you should offer a converter for the pen as well.
Nicole –
Having the same issue with the pen I bought yesterday…only writes upside down. Sent an email to customer service. Otherwise great pen, just wish you offered it in purple, with purple ink.
Joyce Chan –
Hi Nicole,
Did you receive a reply from Customer Service regarding your V-301 issues? We guarantee the performance of all our writing instruments and will be launching an improved nib later this year.
Nicole –
Just bought this pen today…have the same problem with it as everyone else…only writes upside down. Love it otherwise. Would like some purple ink though…and maybe a purple pen.
Salvador som –
I just bought the v301 (1*11*2016) and only writes if you use it with the nib upside down. very disappointed!!!
Joyce Chan –
Hi Salvador, sorry to hear you are dissatisfied with the V-301 fountain pen. Zebra prides itself on high quality standards. Please email our customer service department at [email protected].
BryanH –
I have experienced the same problems with my fountain pen that have been mentioned by others. It writes upside down only at times. I found that detaching the cartridge and pushing it back in lets me write as the pen is intended, and I love it when it does this. I would like to know if the new nib is out. I would definitely buy it if the nib has been fixed, I really like the pen a lot!
Joyce Chan –
Hi Bryan, thank you for your support of this item! We are releasing the V-301 with a new nib later this year. Keep an eye out!
ABHIJIT NAIK –
I bought these pens (about 13 of them) in 2011 and gifted about 6 to friends who wrote a lot. Initially the pens sis not work as they kept going dry or I had to squeeze the refill ink with my teeth (yes the small thingy is that hard). So I dipped the pen in Parker’s Quink for about 24 hours. Now the pens work fine anytime I write with them. The ink dries pretty fast so I have to write and quickly replace the cap. Overall, I would definitely buy more of these for the price. Hope Zebra comes up with some more elegant and corporate style designs offered by other brands.
Stephanie Michels –
I am an author and I love fountain pens. One of my fans gifted me with the Zebra V301 for Christmas. I was so excited about using it at my next booksigning. I put in the refill and started making circles on a scratch pad to prime it, but all I did was scratch the paper. For the life of me, I couldn’t get it to work. Finally, I came to your website and saw the reviews. I tried the pen with the nib down and lo and behold, I got ink! I am disappointed though because it not only looks awkward, it also doesn’t write smoothly. For such a well made appearing instrument, it’s definitely a let down.
Luke –
There is no point in buying a pen that will not write! I LOVE the F-701 and the other Zebra products, I thought, I know, I will try a 301, the products ive had before are awesome, so I grab one from Walgreens, pop the cartridge in and BOOM …… only writes upside down ….. guuuurrrfreakinreat!
Joyce Chan –
Hi Luke, sorry you’re experiencing issues with the V-301. You are not the first to bring it to our attention and we’re listening. The V-301 has been redesigned with an improved nib, ready to ship later this year
William Hudson –
Do not waste your money on this pen. Why … simply because it does not work. No ink flows to the nib. Shaking, licking the nib and even passionate pleading had no effect. If you like fountain pens, spend a bit more and buy a superior brand, definitely not a Zebra.
Joyce Chan –
Hi William, thank you for your feedback. We’re listening and have redesigned the nib, shipping to a retailer near you later this year.
Anthony Waters –
Nice fountain pen for price, but does not write most of the time. Writes when held upside down, but it is vary rough and scratches the paper. how can i go about to get the replacement that addresses this issue? right now its just a paper weight. two stars because the pen doesnt write
Joyce Chan –
Hi there. Sorry you are dissatisfied with the V-301 Fountain Pen. This January we are releasing a new nib so at that time please email our customer service department at [email protected] for a replacement.
No Zebra –
Nice fountain pen for price, but does not write most of the time. Writes when held upside down, but it is vary rough and scratches the paper.
Could you please let me know how would I go about returning it?
Joyce Chan –
Hi there. Unfortunately, if you purchased the V-301 from a retailer, you would have to go back to the retailer and return it there.
Bryan –
I was amazed to find this pen in a local drugstore and tried it on a lark. I have developed a fountain pen habit over the past year, so it’s always good to find new, inexpensive ways to introduce people to the traditional style pen.
On opening and loading the cartridge, I was incredibly disappointed and frustrated. As other reviewers noted, the pen barely writes at the 45-degree angle recommended on the package, and only after considerable wrangling (tapping, holding the pen perpendicular, writing “upside down” with the feed facing up, etc.). I spent 30 minutes on this, hoping it was just “new pen” rust. Nope. Anyone who bought this, or received it, hoping to find an enjoyable experience with fountain pens would be turned away – and that’s what’s disappointing to me.
I note some responses that a new nib is coming in January. I wish I’d known that before I spent $4 on this desk ornament. I did not rate it one star because it’s a worthwhile effort, and the pen has a nice look and feel. But a pen must write to get a good review.
(I contrasted this with my Pilot Varsity disposable fountain pen that had been sitting in my desk for two weeks. The Pilot wrote consistently the moment I removed the cap.)
Joyce Chan –
Hi Bryan, sorry to hear you are dissatisfied with the V-301 fountain pen. Zebra prides itself on high quality standards. As you know, we are offering a new nib in January. At that time please email our customer service department at [email protected] for a replacement.
JOSIE –
Just purchased this pen and it doesn’t work. Impulse buy ’cause I’m a fan of fountain pens. Disappointed to see the refill is $1.50 a cartridge. Recommend R&D work a little harder before releasing product. I wish I could have tested it, but trashed it.
Joyce Chan –
Hi Josie, sorry to hear you are dissatisfied with the V-301 fountain pen. Zebra prides itself on high quality standards. Please email our customer service department at [email protected].
Jeet –
I bought about ten of these and have been using five and gifted the others. I love fountain pens and this one was the most affordable. Yes, it does have ink flow issues, but I simply dipped the pen in an ink bottle for about four to eight hours and the pen works fine every time I use it. Thank you Zebra for being part of my fountain pen collection.
Fred –
I DO NOT LIKE IT…….worst pen i spent my money on…..I want my money back
Joyce Chan –
Hi Fred. Sorry to hear you are dissatisfied with the V-301 Fountain Pen. Please email our customer service department at [email protected]
Becca –
Same experience as others listed above. When it’s flowing it works nicely and has a sturdy feel to it, however, it frequently stops writing and will be difficult regarding placement. I don’t mind using it for doodling but would never utilize it for taking notes or writing reports required for my job. Disappointed since Zebra has always made reliable products.
chris –
The pen only writes thin line when the nib upside down. Usually with fountain pen, the metal parts on the top side to write.
I was hoping this is a good one, I bought a pen and a refill package.
See video showing the problem here https://youtu.be/tIZbU6dVt3U
How do I get a refund on this bad pen?
Randy A –
Beautiful Design! It’s comfortable to hold. Unfortunately as others have stated it doesn’t function properly. The issue lies in the cartridge. There’s guides out there on how to fix this yourself, but needless to say only enthusiasts will probably go through the trouble. When modded the pen works wonderfully, and I rather enjoy it. When a fixed version is released I’ll be purchasing one! For now, 2 stars. I have no idea how this made it to production as it is not the standard I usually expect from Zebra.
Brian –
Found the pen at a Walgreen’s, chose it because it was the nicest looking one of the bunch and I had no prior experience with it. Unfortunately, the pen wrote terribly, especially for someone who not only wants, but needs to write fast. Not very smooth, and anytime you needed to make some sort of circle (an a, o, etc.), the pen would not even show up. Took about 5 seconds to write a single letter at times. Big waste of money in my opinion unless you want to just keep it on your desk or something – it has a nice look to it.
Cayde –
Will be returning it as soon as possible. Does not write at all. I tried for half an hour and watched many videos of people writing with this pen, but the one I bought will not write.
melanie –
Found the fountain pen in a drug store by accident. Love the pen. very substantial. But cannot find refills. went on zebra website and they were $1.50 each! too much. Also would like a fine point.
White Stripes –
The pen only writes when I hold the nib “top down” – the opposite of every other fountain pen I’ve used. Since this manner is contrary to how I expect to write, I’m returning the pen. I was excited to find a fountain pen that could be “a beater” but if I have to think how to write, then it’s a no-go. Seems nice otherwise. I thought it would take my other standard cartridges without an issue, but that appears to be moot now.
Joyce Chan –
Hi White Stripes, thank you for your feedback! Our product development team has made improvements to the nib of our V-301 fountain pen and will be available in stores starting next year for black ink.
Spencer N –
The first one I bought did not work. The replacement only writes with the point upside down. What is going on?
Joyce Chan –
Hi Spencer, we’re sorry to hear that you’re having trouble with our V-301 fountain pen. Our product development team is in the process of introducing an improved nib and will be available in stores next year.
KG –
The pen feels good in hand, but does’nt write at all sometimes. You really have to work it to write a word, then it quits. If it writes at all it’s only when you hold it upside down. Wont buy another one.
Joyce Chan –
We’re sorry to hear that you’re experiencing problems with our V-301 fountain pen. Our product development team has since improved the nib to eliminate these issues and will be available in stores as early as January of next year.
Crystal –
I own a number of fountain pens from a few manufacturers and this pen is excellent for the price. The only issue is with the cartridges: I cannot get any in my local area and I would like to see 6 per package, not just two because I own a few of the fountain pens and roller ball pens in both black and blue
Walt –
Nice fountain pen for price. Would like to see finer point and user refillable cartridge to be able to use special color inks. Its a great companion to the other Zebra writing implements I use
Eddie Aucoin –
Haven’t had a fountain pen in many years. Love this pen. Works great for an under $4 pen. Fun!
Hector –
I bought it thinking that it would be as good as their other products, but the pen seems incorrectly manufactured. The fib seems to flimsy to maintain the ink. Somehow, it writes when you invert the fib upside-down.
Nonetheless, it is a beautiful pen, and has a good weight to it.
Bill Holt –
love the pen, but can I get Green ink refills?
Avery –
It is a very good pen for everyday writing and drawing, the only complaint is that the pocket bar picks up finger grease VERY easy. But overall it is a very nice pen for $4.