Rattray's: Bare Knuckle Sandblasted (144) (9mm) Tobacco Pipe

Rattray's "144" bent Apple is one of four shapes exclusive to the marque's Bare Knuckle series, alongside the "143," "145," and "146," and it presents with the line's characteristically robust construction. A rather wide transition gives way to a remarkably thick, short, slightly upturned shank, cultivating a substantial feel in hand while remaining travel-friendly. Up front, a rounded heel supports the bowl's supple, curvaceous walls as they grow to a low-set waistline and taper gently to the rim, showcasing a squat build that's charmingly chubby.

Rattray's Bare Knuckle series pays homage to the art of bare-knuckle boxing, and it centers around a quartet of stocky, pugilistic shapes in compact, Nosewarmer dimensions. Every pipe in the bare Knuckle line boasts thick musculature, with ample substance through the stummel, and they're paired to broad fitments of silvery metal at the shank end. This domed accent emulates the look of a spigot mount in tandem with a band of the same metal across the base of the stem, and they add a delightful, elegant contrast to the various finishes the line presents. Seen here is the Bare Knuckle's sandblasted finish, dressing the briar in an inky black stain and a crisp sandblast, revealing handsome grain and offering a timeless palette.