What Is a Pre-Roll?

With the rise in the cannabis industry’s popularity, there have also been many outstanding advancements. One such ingenuity is the prized pre-roll joint or blunt. But what is a pre-roll exactly, and what does it offer?

While many enjoy rolling their joints, pre-rolls can help save time and supplies. That’s why we’ve noticed a big rise in the interest of these products and their benefits. So, if you’re looking for an inventive solution that will save you both time and money, this may be the one you’ve been looking for.

Knowing the ins and outs of pre-rolls lets you easily decide if they’re right for you. Continue reading to discover what pre-rolled products are while also focusing on questions like do pre-rolls smell and how much should a pre-roll cost!

What Is a Pre-Roll?

As the name suggests, a pre-roll in the cannabis industry refers to an already-made joint or blunt you can instantly use. They’re one of the most common ways people smoke marijuana and can come in different sizes, strengths, and strains. Furthermore, these products are easily accessible since they can be found at almost any dispensary. 

Before the federal government legalized this herb, most people rolled the cannabis themselves. This process required investing in rolling paper, filters, and grinders to prepare a joint or blunt efficiently. Not only was the whole ordeal time-consuming, but it also cost more due to all the materials needed.

In today’s age, you can walk to a nearby dispensary, buy a pre-rolled joint, and smoke it. The convenience lies in its ready-to-use nature, which saves up a noticeable amount of time and supplies.

Since they offer various strain options, people can easily experiment with different types to find the most suitable ones. This allows you to choose between a wide selection of strengths and flavors to match your taste best.

Source: shutterstock.com/ Photo Contributor: Alina

Components of a pre-roll

Now that we’ve explained its use and purpose, the next step is to define its components. The three main parts that a pre-roll consists of are the following:

• Ground cannabis

• Rolling paper

• Filter

Each component contributes to the overall experience and safety of the consumer. Hence, it’s important to know their use. Plus, with different types of cannabis, rolling papers, and filters available, you’ll find the desired combination faster and easier.

Ground cannabis

The main part of every pre-roll joint and blunt is the cannabis plant itself. Since this herb comes from a marijuana plant, it must be grounded before it can be smoked. 

Thanks to cutting-edge robotic technology, when buying a pre-rolled joint, you can expect freshly grounded and high-quality marijuana buds. This ensures the customer gets the best possible effect while enjoying the delightful taste. 

Many pre-roll manufacturers also want to incorporate a unique and creative user experience.

Thus, you can find the so-called mystery and rainbow rolls, which use different types of marijuana in a single joint.

Some even go as far as to infuse the pre-rolls with concentrates to achieve higher doses of CBD and THC. If you’re questioning the safety of such products, there’s no need to worry. Each pre-roll has undergone lab testing to ensure its safety and consistency. 

Rolling paper

The second component that pre-rolls are made of is the rolling paper. The key importance of the rolling paper is to keep the ground cannabis buds in place. But its importance goes beyond being just a medium holding the cannabis in place. High-quality rolling papers burn evenly and smoothly, do not introduce unwanted flavors or chemicals in the smoke, and help make the rolling process easier. 

The most common way the marijuana is rolled is in a cone form. The paper is rolled up in a tube-like form where the end of the filter is tighter while the other part of the rolling paper is wider.

Furthermore, there are different types of high-quality rolling papers, which also contribute to various textures. Some of the most common options available are the following:

• Refined white paper

• Unrefined brown paper

• 100% organic hemp paper

• Hemp wrap blunts

• Palm-leaf blunts

• Cotton cellulose paper

Filter

The last component of the pre-roll is a filter. Even though there are different lengths, these small pieces are often made from cardboard or paper. Since they’re placed at the end of the joint or blunt from where you smoke them, they aim to prevent and filter out unwanted particles. Plus, they keep the structural integrity intact by supporting it and preventing it from becoming too moist. 

By applying a filter to pre-rolls, the manufacturers ensure the users’ safety by stopping the small particles of plant matter and ash from damaging the respiratory system. They’re used to improve the overall quality and smell of the smoke to provide a better smoking experience.

Instead of having to roll your own filter, pre-rolls come with ones already inserted into the joint or blunt. This way, you won’t have to worry about their shape or size since these cylindrical shapes are already set. But remember that not all pre-rolls include this component.

Source: shutterstock.com/ Photo Contributor: Mitch M

Types of pre-rolls

Even though all pre-rolls are made for smoking, there are different types of products available on the market. While the variety is based on the shapes, sizes, and strengths, the two main forms they come in are joints and blunts. Since many beginners have difficulty distinguishing the two, we want to explain what's a pre-roll joint vs. what is a pre-roll blunt.

Joints

Joints are the most common form of pre-rolls and have been a go-to smoking form for ages. They’re made from thin rolling where the ground cannabis is nestled. A single joint usually contains around one-third of a gram of cannabis, so they’re compact and small. Since many people wonder how many pre-rolls in an ounce there are, you’ll get around 60 products if you go for this option.

Depending on the rolling paper, some people choose flavored options, while others prefer the strain's natural taste. Since the wrap also affects the burning time, you can choose between the slow-burning and fast-burning options. But remember that joints have a faster burn time than blunts.

Blunts

Blunts are made from tobacco leaf paper, pure tobacco leaves, or hemp paper. Due to the materials used for wrapping the ground cannabis buds, blunts tend to last longer and have a slower burning time. Furthermore, they can hold bigger quantities of marijuana than joints, around one to two grams. 

Regarding the taste, the cannabis strain will be mixed with a tobacco flavor. While some may enjoy this kick, others may find it a bit harsh because it takes away from the natural taste of the marijuana plant.

How to Use a Pre-Roll

Using a pre-roll is simple and easy. Since the hardest part has already been taken care of (rolling the joint or blunt), you only need to light it up and smoke it. 

While experienced users are familiar with the usage of pre-rolls, those unfamiliar with the product may need more guidance on how to enjoy their pre-rolls.

Here are the steps you need to take to ensure the best smoking experience:

• Taking the product out of the container

• Lighting the joint or blunt

• Putting the filter in your mouth

• Inhaling

Taking the product out of the container

The first step in smoking a pre-roll is taking the joint or blunt out of its container. They usually come in glass tube-like packages to ensure the safety of the users and the product's structure. There’s usually a small bottle cap on the top side, which you can flip open easily.

Once carefully removing the joint or blunt from the package, you should always check if it’s damaged. If you notice any tears in the rolling paper or damage to the filter, you may be eligible for a refund. After ensuring everything is in place, you can move on to the next step.

Lighting the joint or blunt

Next, you’ll have to light the product with a lighter or other fire-emitting tool. While it may appear straightforward, the way you light the joint or blunt is one of the most crucial stages that contributes to a good smoking session. 

You should always be careful with this part to ensure you don’t burn or hurt yourself. If you don’t light the joint or blunt properly, you also risk damaging the product. Not only will it burn faster, but it may even start to become uneven. This can lead to the dreaded “canoeing”, where only one side of the joint is burning and leaves a canoe-like shape.

To ensure the pre-roll is properly lit, you should always position the lighter in the center of the product. Once you light it, check if it starts to burn evenly. If you notice one side burning faster, light the other side again to achieve an even burn.

Putting the filter in your mouth

After ensuring your joint burns evenly, the next step is to indulge in your smoking session. To begin, position the filter into your mouth. This little, yet extremely crucial paper or cotton material acts as a barrier and ensures there’s no ground cannabis entering your mouth as you take your draws. Additionally, it prevents the smoke from directly entering the respiratory system.

Inhaling

After placing the filter in your mouth, the next and last step is to inhale it. If you haven’t smoked a joint before, you should start slowly. Try taking little breaths from the filter and holding the smoke for 10 to 15 seconds. 

But you should always watch out not to take too many short breaths. Once you get used to the feeling, you can take fuller and deeper breaths. Furthermore, taking only shallow breaths may waste the joint without feeling its effects.

Lastly, always take small breaks between the puffs. Doing so will ensure you have time to feel the effects before you’ve overstepped your limits. When smoking a joint, you should always take it slow and make it enjoyable. Don’t rush the process since it may only make you uncomfortable and stressed.

Source: shutterstock.com/ Photo Contributor: Paul Novel Aran

Benefits of Pre-Rolls

If you’re contemplating if you should try pre-rolls, there are several benefits that many users have praised. Even though the choice of using these products should always come down to personal preference, here are some of the advantages they may offer you:

• Convenience

• Time-saving

• Portability

• No equipment needed

• Discreet

• Controlled dosage

• Flavor preservation

• Variety

Convenience

The first and most important benefit that pre-rolls offer is their convenience. Instead of rolling the joints yourself, you can walk up to the nearest dispensary and get a pre-made one. All you need to do is open the package, light it up, and start smoking. This is especially useful if you’re only a beginner and have difficulty rolling.

Time-saving

This leads to the second benefit, which is the time-saving aspect. Instead of spending time getting the cannabis buds, grinding them, and rolling them yourself, skip all the unnecessary steps.

Portability

Another important benefit that can be expected of pre-rolls is their portability. These small and compact products can be easily fitted anywhere, even within your pockets. Thus, once you’ve bought them, you can easily move them around and take them wherever you go.

No equipment needed

If you’re the type of person who doesn’t want to bother about gathering the necessary materials and equipment, you’ll benefit gravely from pre-rolls. Unlike other consumption methods, pre-rolls don’t require pipes or vapes. Since these products are already pre-made, you don’t need to invest in additional equipment except a lighter. 

Discreet

Even though cannabis is legal in many states, some people still prefer to be discreet when smoking. The small sizes of pre-rolls are especially useful if you want to enjoy cannabis without other people noticing you. Furthermore, their cigarette-like shape will help you blend in with your surroundings instead of standing out. 

Controlled dosage

Another important benefit from pre-rolls is their controlled dosage. This is especially useful for beginners who still aren’t sure of the right strain for them. Most of these products contain additional information about the strength so you can choose the ones that fit your best. This way, you’ll know exactly what you’ll be getting so you don’t overstep your limits. 

Flavor preservation

Since pre-rolls are stored in tightly packed glass tubes, they’re prized for flavor preservation. This ensures the cannabis buds inside them stay fresh and keep their juicy flavor. So the next time you want to enjoy a smoke, it’ll be good as new with its flavor and aroma intact. 

Variety

Lastly, pre-rolls are highly prized for their variety. While some want to try different strains, others want to explore the flavors. Regardless of the reasons, the variety of pre-roll options is suitable for everyone’s taste.

Considerations Before Buying Pre-Rolls

Now that we’ve explained the benefits you can expect from pre-rolls, it’s also important to mention the factors you should consider before buying them. Even though these products are legal, you should always consider these aspects to ensure your safety:

• Strain selection

• Potency

• Brand reputation

• Ingredients

• Size and packaging

• Price

• Lab testing

• Terpene profile

Strain selection

The first factor on which people choose pre-rolls is strain selection. While different strain types offer different effects, it’s important to notice which ones work best for you. The three main types you’ll find on the market are:

• Indica

• Sativa

• Hybrid

Those looking for a calm and relaxed evening often go for India due to its soothing and sedative effect. On the other hand, if you want to get pumped up, Sativa offers a euphoric, uplifting, and energized effect. Brands who want to use both these qualities turn to creating hybrids that include the positive benefits of both Indica and Sativa.

Potency

The second factor that influences the user’s choice is potency. This stands for the percentage of THC present in the product. For instance, if you are new to cannabis or have a low tolerance, you should consider starting with pre-rolls with a lower THC content.

Brand reputation

Like any product, brand reputation is important in choosing a pre-roll product. If you’re looking for a high-quality product, you should always rely on trusted and reputable sources. That’s why it’s best to do thorough market research before deciding on the brand you want to try.

Ingredients

When buying pre-roll products, you should also check the ingredients they contain. Besides the cannabis buds, these products may contain concentrates like wax, hash, and kief. These ingredients allude to the fact that the pre-roll has been infused and is stronger than normal ones. 

Size and packaging

Even though it may sound irrelevant, the size and packaging should also be considered before buying pre-rolls. Checking the container will ensure that the product has been safely stored and hasn’t been compromised.

Price

The price has always played an important role when choosing products. Such is the case with pre-rolls as well. Before you decide on the product you want to try, we recommend checking the prices of its competitors. This way, you’ll know you’ll be getting your money's worth.

Lab testing

All legal products sold in state-licensed dispensaries are lab-tested, ensuring consumers that the manufactured product is safe for smoking. By getting the products tested, manufacturers assure consumers that the products are cleared of potentially dangerous contaminants, such as mold, or have a higher THC potency. 

Lab testing has shown to be very effective as it helps people avoid buying black market cannabis products that may be harmful to health as they can contain heavy metals and other toxic chemicals.

Source: shutterstock.com

Terpene profile

Lastly, many people rely on the terpene profile before purchasing the product. This element lets you know if the product has been infused for a stronger kick. Thus, if you’re a beginner, always check the label to ensure you don’t overstep your limits.

Thanks to the advanced technology you can rest assured that the pre-rolls are tested, packed appropriately, and are of high quality.

How Pre-Rolls Compare to Other Consumption Methods

Since the cannabis industry has a selection of products, the most common ways people use this herb are through:

Edibles

Edibles can include gummies, brownies, cookies, and chocolates. Unlike smoking, it takes longer to feel the effects when you eat them. Even though there are various strengths available, they have a shorter shelf life due to their ingredients.

Tinctures

With easy use and instant results, tinctures offer one of the best consumption methods. With various product types available, you can easily choose the right ones. Not only will you avoid irritating your lungs from the smoke, but they also come in small bottles that can be easily transported.

Topicals

By applying topicals on your skin, the cannabis-infused oil is absorbed through the epidermis. Cannabis topicals are used for external use and can come in various forms, from creams and lotions to lip balms and facial serums. While topical CBD is the only type of cannabis that doesn’t cause psychoactive effects, there are some topical creams that do in fact contain higher levels of THC, which may cause psychoactive effects.

Smokeless vaporizers

Smokeless vaporizers allow users to control the dosage, potency, and flavor. You can easily customize your smoking preference thanks to the vaporizing temperatures. The downside of this method is that it's quite expensive compared to pre-rolls. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize the content of a pre-roll?

Many brands from the cannabis industry want to create a unique smoking experience for users. That’s why there are many customized pre-roll options available. So, if you’re looking for a new experience with a group, you can try out the rainbow or mystery rolls. 

Are pre-rolls stronger than regular cannabis?

Pre-rolls are mostly made from regular cannabis buds. Thus, they have the same strength depending on your chosen type or strain. If you’re looking for something stronger, you can try out infused pre-rolls, which offer a stronger effect.

Do pre-rolls have a shelf life?

Since marijuana pre-rolls come from the natural cannabis plant, it’s only natural that their components may start to degrade over time. Since these products come in a sealed package, you’ll have about six to twelve months of shelf life before they dry out. 

Can I make my own pre-rolls at home?

Even though you can make your own pre-rolls at home, it’s costly and time-consuming. It requires getting quality cannabis buds, grinding, rolling, and storing them properly.

Are pre-rolls suitable for beginners?

Pre-rolls are one of the best options for beginners since they offer a variety of strengths and strains. Not only will you know the quality of the product, but you’ll also have the opportunity to find what type of product is most suitable for you.

Conclusion

So what is a pre-roll, and what are its benefits? These pre-made joints and blunts are cannabis-based products that can be bought at dispensaries and save the users from having to roll them themselves. Not only are they time-efficient, but they also offer a variety of strains and strengths. Suitable for beginners and long-time smokers, these tightly-packed products are a real game changer in the industry.

So, if you’re a business looking to implement these products in your strategy, contact Sorting Robotics to optimize your production processes and minimize expenses!