Rattray's: Bare Knuckle Green Smooth (143) (9mm) Tobacco Pipe

Rattray's "143" Dublin is one of four shapes exclusive to the marque's Bare Knuckle series, alongside the "144," "145," and "146," and it presents with the line's characteristically robust construction. A wide transition out back gives way to a cylindrical shank whose build is remarkably thick and quite short, cultivating a substantial feel in hand while remaining travel-friendly. Up front, a sturdy heel supports the bowl's walls as they take on a reserved flare to the domed and subtly chamfered rim, insulating a capacious chamber while offering a comfortable feel in hand.

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 Green Smooth finish, dressing the briar in a verdant emerald stain and a glossy topcoat, revealing handsome grain and offering an expressive palette.