Todd Johnson Smooth Blowfish (Phalanx) (Q) Tobacco Pipe

Todd Johnson is one of the most well-known and respected names in American pipe making. His experience spans over two decades, and his style is heavily influenced by his time spent studying under Tom Eltang, as well as his master's degree in aesthetics. Combined, this has fostered a singularly unique approach to pipe making. With firm paneling and crisp line work, this Blowfish from Johnson is an architectural rendering of the shape. He's done an excellent job here of shaping the pipe to follow the patterns of the grain inherent within the briar. Compared to many of his other renditions of the Blowfish, this pipe is a bit stiffer, with a longer shank that curls less than usual. The bowl is more elongated and takes up less of the pipe's overall visual weight. The heel is long and softened to provide a comfortable fit to the palm when smoking, a comfort that is further promoted by the pipe's relatively protracted length. Johnson has also done a nice job incorporating the stem into the overall composition. Its expansion ring is angled to mimic the craggy slope of the plateau-kissed shank face within which the stem base is nestled. This pipe has been awarded Johnson's prestigious Phalanx grade for its outstanding grain.