I actually did check the nib of the 303 and the tines seem slightly twisted (I'm not sure if it's a manufacturing fault or if I damaged it while trying to write) - I aligned them somewhat again and was able to write temporarily but it eventually snaps back into twisted mode .. I do have a couple more which look fine & I will be trying them in the future... Yesterday I decided to try a Leonardt Crown (41) and as I do with every different nib I try, said 'This is the one I love!' - I never expected such big differences between nibs.. I love that.... In general, I'm having MUCH less trouble now with flow, pressure, catching upstrokes... and enjoying every minute of it (and probably too much).