To clarify:
When speaking to a fountain pen affectionado you must realize they have certain knowledge of nibs. Some have SUBSTANTIAL knowledge. So, if you tell them the nib is iridium and they know there is no way that can be true, you have LOST credibility.
I stopped saying these were made in Germany when I learned the word "Germany" does NOT mean it's made there and when a Chinese supplier provided me with sample nibs (pictures - I never asked for actual samples) he made that had that exact wording.
Ya'all do what you wish. The skeptic in me is not convinced.
Oh, and as far as quality goes - they have frequently been affirmed as "good quality, steel nibs". So, I certainly would NOT expect anything better on a $8 kit. THAT was not the issue. Whether the Emperor nib is significantly better than a baron nib - THAT is a reasonable question. If so, why?
Since Eric is watching this thread, maybe we can get better informed to become more HONEST sales people for his products. (Although I do wonder with "as far as we know" as a qualifier - maybe out of professional curiosity, you might send some of your nibs to the guy and have him test them. - Nibs.com) An electron microscope could scientifically evaluate exactly what is there!!
I will do more research on the import law however. "Point of origin" or "point of manufacture" and stamping country names vs "made in...", it IS confusing.
Thanks for your attention, Eric.
Having dealt with thousands of salespeople in the last 3 decades, I am sympathetic to YOUR position; however, I am also VERY sensitive to telling MY customers the truth - accurately. Not "to the best of my knowledge" - if my knowledge is incomplete, they can find a better source somewhere else and I have not EARNED their business. But then, that's what's kept me in business, in a small town atmosphere.
Craft Supply has been selling these nibs for over a decade and none of YOU ever read "nibs.com"???? No one ever questioned the suppliers?
Wow, that shows a REAL LACK of curiosity - at best.[:0][:0][:0]
I was typing while Gerry posted, so this was mostly before I read his comments - last part was added after.