TWSBI Vac Mini Fountain Pen - Smoke/Clear

A surprisingly capable little vac filler

The TWSBI Vac Mini takes the full vacuum filling system from the Vac 700R and shrinks it into something much easier to carry every day. The smoke transparent body keeps the demonstrator feel, but tones it down with a darker, more understated look. Despite the smaller size, it still manages impressive ink capacity, a shut-off valve for travel, and even a threaded posting system so the cap locks securely onto the back of the pen.

What sets it apart

• Vacuum filling system with surprisingly large ink capacity for the size
• Smoke transparent body gives the demonstrator look a darker feel
• Compact when capped, but posts into a comfortable full length pen
• Reliable stainless steel nib shared with the TWSBI Eco
• User serviceable with included wrench

Feel in the hand

The Vac Mini feels denser and more capable than most pens this size. Posted, it becomes a genuinely comfortable full length writer, while the darker transparent body keeps the demonstrator look from feeling too flashy.

Who it’s for

• Writers who want a portable vacuum filler
• Demonstrator fans who prefer darker, more restrained finishes
• Everyday carry fountain pen users
• TWSBI users wanting more ink capacity without moving to the larger Vac 700R
• People who like compact pens that still feel substantial

Not for

• People who dislike posting smaller pens
• Writers wanting the lightest possible pocket pen
• Cartridge users who want zero maintenance
• Anyone wanting the simplest possible filling system

Practical tips

• Pull the rod out slowly and push in quickly to get a maximum fill
• For long writing sessions, open the rear blind cap slightly to allow ink to move past the shut-off valve

FAQs

Is it much smaller than the Vac 700R?
Yes, it’s noticeably shorter and more portable, but still substantial once posted.

Does it hold less ink than the Vac 700R?
Yes, but still more than most cartridge or converter fountain pens.

Can you use it unposted?
Yes, though many users prefer it posted for better balance and length.

Is it difficult to fill?
No, but it takes a little practice at first. We recommend doing the first fill with a cup of water, to both flush the pen and get a feel for the mechanism movement.

Is it difficult to clean?
Not really. Use the mechanism to expel any remaining ink, then do a few cycles of water into the pen to rinse out the barrel.

Can the nib be swapped?
Yes, compatible nib units are available separately. They screw on and are easy to exchange.

Does it come with ink?
No, bottled fountain pen ink is required.

Can I use it with document or shimmer ink?
Yes, but cleaning the barrel is not as easy compared to cartridge/converter and piston filler pens. 

Why did my pen stop writing?
For long writing sessions, you need to unscrew the end cap a few rotations to enable ink to flow. If the ink starts skipping, check you have undone the end cap enough.

What’s included

• TWSBI Vac Mini Smoke Fountain Pen
• Presentation case
• Wrench
• Silicone grease
• Instruction leaflet
• Free tuning option from LarryPOST

Ink pairing suggestions

• Deep blues and blue-blacks suit the darker demonstrator body especially well
• Grey and charcoal inks lean into the more understated look
• The clear smoke barrel works with almost any ink colour without clashing

Build your practice

• The Twsbi Vac20A Ink Well makes filling cleaner and less awkward
• Replacement Vac Mini nibs are available if you want to experiment with line width
• The 1.1mm stub works especially well in the smaller format
• Pairs nicely with the Traveler's Co refillable notebook system

Specifications

• Brand: TWSBI
• Brand series: Vac Mini
• Launch: 2016
• Origin: Taiwan
• Nib: Stainless steel
• Nib sizes: EF, F, M, B, 1.1mm stub
• Filling system: Vac filler (2mL)
• Body: Transparent polycarbonate
• Trim: Stainless steel
• Cap: Twist
• Grip: approx. 9.5mm
• Diametre: approx. 13.5mm
• Length: approx. 123mm (capped)
• Length: approx. 145mm (posted)
• Weight: approx. 26g (capped)
• Comparable size: Pilot Prera, Pilot Kakuno, Pelikan M200