Peterson: Killarney Red (408) Fishtail Tobacco Pipe

Combining elements of the Author, Prince, and bent Apple, Peterson's "408" maintains a classic profile yet doesn't fit exactly into the traditional pipe chart. The voluptuous bowl and hearty shank cater well to the Irish marque's muscular design aesthetic, and the unique form demands attention — showcasing classic shaping cues and offering a plump in hand presence.

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.