Peterson: Killarney Red (306) Fishtail Tobacco Pipe

Bent pipes, while offering a comfortably clenched smoking posture, aren't often as convenient for setting down when need arises. Peterson solves that dichotomy in their "306" bent Billiard, originally introduced back in 1992. Featuring a generous bend and flattened heel, the "306" affords the benefits of a bent pipe as well as that of Poker — allowing the pipe to sit upright on a flat surface. Shape-wise, it resembles the bold form of an Oom Paul and exemplifies the Irish marque's muscular approach to shaping, making for quite the versatile pipe in signature Peterson style.

Like many of Peterson's lines, the Killarney takes its name from an Irish town — in this case, one located in the southwest. Introduced in 1949, the Killarney features a vivid, ruby stain, over which a lacquer finish is applied for added protection and a higher sheen. The color palette calls to mind traditional English finishes of the early 20th century, hearkening back to an era when darker stains were the norm (lighter finishes wouldn't become popular until the decade before WWII). Fitted with twin rings of nickel, the Killarney boasts a formal, vintage appeal, similar to the black-and-chrome dress pipe motif, but with a more colorful persona.