Fountain Pen Ink Review: Montblanc Lavender Purple with an Italix Parson's Essential pen, M italic nib

This Montblanc Lavender Purple ink is nicely saturated.

But I wish that it had more shading properties. The color is rich.

It might not be for everyone, but I personally find it very pleasing. To me, it's fun in an understated and classy way.

I give this ink an 8.75 on a scale of 1-10.

Fountain Pen Ink Review: Private Reserve Claret

Private Reserve Claret is an ink that is true to its name. It does look like a beautiful wine. 

It writes smoothly even with a medium steel nib in my Parker 45 fountain pen. 

I used it in the Parker 45 pen because the color of the ink is fairly close to the color of the barrel of my particular pen.  

The ink is fairly saturated but it does not have much shading.  Actually, I would like to try this ink with either a broad nib or with an italic nib. Perhaps then some shading would occur. 

Overall, I give this ink a 7.5 rating. 

10 tips for enjoying your fountain pen over the long haul

I recently came across these ten tips on the Parker Pens site that will help us continue to enjoy our fountain pens longer. 

These simple tips will help you keep your pens safe and will protect your investment. If you take of your pens, you can find joy in eventually giving some of your pens away to family and friends. Taking care of your pens will equip you to pass your pens along to the next generation.

1. If you don't want to lend your fountain pen, always keep a ballpoint in your pocket as a lender.

2. If you don't mind lending your fountain pen, keep the cap, that way it won't "accidently" be pocketed.

3. If you write with small letters, use a fine nib and vice versa.

4. If you're bothered by a scratchier nib, choose a broad one.

5. Always replace the cap with the nib upwards, that way the air pocket will force excess ink back into the pen.

6. If you're going to fly with your fountain pen, keep it full or empty. A little air could expand and force out some ink.

7. If you're not going to use your pen for a while keep it full or empty. The acid in inks together with oxygen starts oxidation, which corrodes your rubber sac.

8. Write with your cap posted, if you accidently drop your pen, the heaviest part will reach the floor first.

9. Replace the cap when you put your pen down, or keep it posted at all times, that way it won't roll off the table.

10. Rinse your pen once a month by filling it with luke warm water until no more residue escapes.

Question: What tips would you add to this list?

Note: Picture is a Parker 45.