Roll Your Own vs. Pre-Rolls: Which Hemp Option is Better?

Hemp enthusiasts are constantly debating which smoking option reigns supreme: rolling your own hemp joints or going with pre-rolled ones. Both have their perks and drawbacks, and the better choice often depends on your personal preferences, lifestyle, and budget. So then, we’ll delve deep into the pros and cons of both, helping you make an informed decision on your hemp-smoking journey.

To Get on a ‘Roll’, You Gotta Understand the Basics

Before we jump into the pros and cons, it’s essential to understand what makes these two options distinct.

Roll Your Own (RYO) Hemp Joints: Rolling your own hemp joint involves purchasing loose hemp flower, grinding it, and rolling it into a paper or blunt wrap. It requires tools such as a grinder, rolling papers, and often a bit of skill to perfect the art of rolling.

Pre-Rolls: These are ready-to-smoke joints filled with hemp flower, often purchased from dispensaries or hemp retailers. They’re convenient, pre-made, and typically come in various sizes, blends, and strains.

Roll Your Own vs. Pre-Rolls

Now, we can get to breaking down the case for each hemp smoking method.

The Case for Rolling Your Own

Rolling your own hemp joints is often favored by seasoned smokers and DIY enthusiasts. Let’s explore why this option might be better for you.

Reason #1: Full Control Over Quality

When you roll your own joints, you get to choose the exact strain, grind level, and quantity of hemp flower used. This ensures you’re smoking pure, high-quality flower without any additives.

Advantages:

• Control over strain and terpene profiles.
• Assurance of freshness if you source quality hemp flower.

Disadvantage:

• Requires knowledge of hemp strains and quality checks.

Reason #2: Cost-Effectiveness

Buying loose hemp flower in bulk is often more affordable than purchasing pre-rolls. Over time, this can lead to significant savings for regular smokers.

Advantages:

• Lower cost per joint.
• Better value for heavy users.

Disadvantage:

• Initial investment in tools like grinders and papers.

Reason #3: Customization

Rolling your own allows you to tailor your smoking experience. Want to add kief, concentrate, or mix strains? You have the freedom to experiment.

Advantages:

• Creative control over your joint’s potency and flavor.
• Freedom to mix hemp with other herbs.

Disadvantage:

• Can be overwhelming for beginners.

Reason #4: Ritualistic Experience

For many, rolling a joint is a meditative and rewarding process. The tactile experience of grinding, packing, and rolling can enhance the overall enjoyment of hemp smoking.

Advantages:

• Adds a personal touch.
• Connects you more intimately with the process.

Disadvantage:

• Time-consuming compared to ready-made options.

The Case for Pre-Rolls

Pre-rolls are the epitome of convenience and simplicity, appealing to those who value time and ease over customization.

Reason #1: Convenience and Accessibility

Pre-rolls are perfect for smokers who want a ready-to-go option. Whether you’re on the road, at a social gathering, or relaxing at home, pre-rolls save time and effort.

Advantages:

• No tools or rolling skills required.
• Quick and hassle-free.

Disadvantage:

• Less control over what’s inside.

Reason #2: Professional Rolling Quality

Not everyone has the skill to roll a perfect joint. Pre-rolls, made with professional rolling machines, ensure even burning and a consistent smoking experience.

Advantages:

• Smooth, even burn.
• Reliable quality.

Disadvantage:

• Limited personalization.

Reason #3: Great for Beginners

For those new to hemp smoking, pre-rolls eliminate the intimidation of learning how to roll. They allow novices to focus on enjoying the experience without any added pressure.

Advantages:

• Simple and approachable.
• Widely available in stores and online.

Disadvantage:

• Less opportunity to learn and experiment.

Reason #4: Variety and Portability

Pre-rolls often come in convenient packs with multiple joints, making them ideal for travel or sharing. They’re also available in a wide range of strains, from sativa and indica to hybrid blends.

Advantages:

• Compact and easy to carry.
• Strain-specific options.

Disadvantage:

• May lack freshness compared to loose flower.

What to Consider Before Choosing

Of course, there are going to be several key considerations you will need to keep in mind.

Consideration #1: Your Smoking Habits

Frequent Smokers: Rolling your own is more cost-effective and sustainable.

Occasional Smokers: Pre-rolls offer convenience without the need for extra tools.

Consideration #2: Your Lifestyle

On-the-Go Lifestyle: Pre-rolls are perfect for quick, portable use.

Relaxed Home Use: Rolling your own can be part of your unwinding routine.

Consideration #3: Your Budget

If you’re on a budget and smoke regularly, investing in rolling tools and loose flower is the smarter choice. For those willing to spend a bit more for convenience, pre-rolls are a viable option.

Consideration #4: Your Skill Level

Beginners might feel overwhelmed by rolling their own joints, making pre-rolls a better starting point. On the other hand, experienced smokers often enjoy the precision and creativity of rolling their own.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Rolling Your Own: Rolling your own joints can be a more sustainable option if you purchase hemp flower in eco-friendly packaging. Additionally, you can choose biodegradable rolling papers or reusable rolling tools to reduce waste.

Pre-Rolls: While convenient, pre-rolls often come with packaging that can contribute to environmental waste. Many pre-roll brands are now opting for recyclable or biodegradable packaging, but it’s worth checking before purchasing.

Which Hemp Smoking Option is Better?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to whether rolling your own or pre-rolls are better. It ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. Here’s a quick recap to help you decide:

Choose Roll Your Own If:

• You enjoy the ritual of rolling and customizing your joints.
• You’re looking for a cost-effective solution.
• You want full control over the quality and composition of your joint.

Choose Pre-Rolls If:

• You prioritize convenience and ease.
• You’re a beginner or infrequent smoker.
• You need a portable, ready-to-use option.

Bottom Line: Whether you decide to roll your own hemp joints or opt for pre-rolls, both options offer unique advantages that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. Take the time to experiment and find what works best for you. After all, enjoying hemp should be about relaxation and pleasure, regardless of how you choose to consume it.