Abstract: A nib and shield for a writing implement are coextruded of plastic material. The shield is coextensive with the nib over a major portion of its length and reinforces the nib substantially throughout its length. The shield terminates at one end short of the end of the nib to expose the writing point. The shield also terminates short of the opposite end of the nib to expose the nib end for reception in an ink wad within the writing implement. The inner end of the shield is tapered to provide a lead-in when the nib and shield are inserted into the open end of the barrel of the writing implement.