| Compatibility | Standard Holders, Adjustable Holders |
| Skill Level | Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced |
I would compare the 404 to a G nib. It's a little stiff, and I had trouble making it work in a straight holder. It's funny, the tip is very sharp but the fine line isn't all that fine. When I say sharp, it will shred the paper and pick up fibers if you're not careful. But things got much better when I put it in an oblique holder. It will probably stay there.
The Gillott 404 is not recommended for beginners, and I am a beginner who’s been using pointy nibs enthusiastically, but only for three or four months. This is my experience with the Gillott 404: it is a little bit stiffer than both the Gillott 303 and the Hunt 101. It makes nice thick and thin lines, although not as thin as the those made by the Gillott 303. It holds ink well, lays it down well--it does everything a good pointy nib should do and does it well. What I dislike about the Gillott 404 is its scratchiness. It catches on Canson Pro-Layout Marker Paper and that’s the smoothest paper I have. On https://www.paperinkarts.com/ blog/gillott-nibs/ the 404 is described as smooth, but that has not been my experience.
Great nib for all textured papers or Metallic inks. Cheap And good.
