Bill Shalosky: Sandblasted Eye Scorcher with Deer Antler (384) Tobacco Pipe

Bill Shalosky's "Eye Scorcher" takes the nosewarmer to a different level. Indeed, at less than four and a half inches in length, but with two full inches of chamber depth, it combines the abbreviated stature of a nosewarmer with a Stack, making for a unique shape. What might seem, in theory, to be a rather unbalanced piece instead feels quite cohesive, the trim stretch of a saddle stem serving to balance the weight of the bowl, and a subtle line to its transition giving it a supple, easy sensibility. It's quite comfortable in hand, as well, thanks in part to the careful precision in its shaping, as well as the crisp, low-profile sandblast used to finish — its warm and smoky stain pairing perfectly with a thin accent of natural deer antler.