Nathan Armentrout Sandblasted Straight Billiard Estate Briar Pipe [SOLD OUT]

Description

Originally a science teacher in California, Nathan Armentrout began making pipes in 2009 and has since emerged as one of North America’s most talented, high-grade artisan pipe-makers. Inspired by Denmark’s legendary carvers, Nathan’s designs continue the legacy of the Danish pipe-making movement into the present day and expand that legacy through his own unique interpretations of the masters of old.

I love the Danish billiard, as it has come to be called. It’s one of my favorite shapes. Purists will tell you that it’s not really a billiard. Maybe they’re right – maybe it’s better. Pioneered by Danish artisans like Jess Chonowitsch and reinterpreted by Americans such as J. Alan and Adam Davidson, the Danish billiard is a wide, muscular billiard, typically with a mount or ring (as in this instance) at the end of the shank, and a flared stem, usually ebonite (as is also in this instance. Armentrout’s version here almost borders on the lovat, but the saddle stem is just long enough to make it more like a billiard.

I really enjoy Nathan’s sandblasting and staining work. This pipe, like most of Armentrout’s sandblasts, has a crisp, consistent ring grain around the bowl, and a subtle red-black contrast stain accentuating the contours of the finish. The rim is smooth polished, which is always a nice touch. The pipe is quite light despite being so muscular, so it can be clenched if that’s your style. The condition is excellent too. There’s really nothing to complain about here – and plenty to praise.

 

Details:

Length: 5″

Bowl Width: 19.0mm

Bowl Depth: 1.8″

Weight: 1.4oz / 41g