Chillums, or one-hitters, have been around for a long time. Hindu monks and India holy men have used them. Some say these spiritual people were using these pipes even before tobacco was around.
Today, chillum pipes are pretty mainstream. These pipes are often used for one or two quick hits of herb. They are also small and portable. You load the bowl end of the chillum pipe with your favorite dry herb, light it, inhale through the mouthpiece end, and get a strong, quick hit.