Rattray's: Marlin (4) (9mm) Tobacco Pipe

Rattray's "4" design is a low-slung bent Brandy, featuring a firm base and muscular proportions throughout. Shape-wise, it's reminiscent of the classic Diplomat, but opts for a round shank rather than one with an oval cross section. The "4" does well to retain the classic form of the Brandy shape, displaying a beautiful taper from the bowl's broad base up toward the gently beveled rim. The plump proportions are pleasing in hand while the saddle stem further accentuates the bowl's heartiness and terminates in a gentle downturn to allow for a comfortable, hands-free smoking posture.

Honoring one of the Scottish marque's most popular tobaccos, Marlin Flake, Rattray's Marlin series consists of classic shapes fittingly dressed in a timeless finish. The designs are the same ones found in the Old Gowrie line, offering six shapes that are more slender and filterless, while the other six are slightly stouter and designed to accommodate 9mm filters. This particular design wears a deep, ruby-tinged stain that hearkens back to those used on vintage English pipes. Such a stain further accentuates the traditional appeal of this piece, ensuring it'll fit right in with any collection of classic pipes.