How to Choose the Right Rolling Machine

Did you know rolling machines can make rolling a joint easier? Have you considered purchasing a rolling machine but are not sure which type is right for you? Have you wondered if you would enjoy using one? Are rolling machines challenging to use? In this article, we will address all of the above. We will also take a look at hand rolling versus machine rolling and provide you with a guide to rolling the perfect joint using a rolling machine. Stay with us to find out more!

Hand Rolling vs. Machine Rolling

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Choosing to hand-roll your joints or opting for a machine is primarily a matter of preference. Both methods have pros and cons. In this section, we will look at these two processes and find out more about what is involved in each technique. Later in this article, we will look at some of the factors you should consider when selecting a rolling machine.

Hand Rolling

Hand rolling the perfect joint is one of the most satisfying aspects of the smoking ritual. However, it’s not easy. Rolling the ideal joint by hand takes practice. You will more than likely end up with a heap of rejected joints before you can roll out beautifully crafted masterpieces. But with time and a bit of practice, you will be rolling joints with ease.

When rolling by hand, you may sacrifice uniformity; one joint may look slightly different from the next. This shouldn’t be a big deal unless you have a touch of OCD. Rolling a joint by hand offers you greater control over the size and shape of your joints. You will be able to create large cone-shaped joints for those social occasions and tiny single servings! Choosing to master the craft of handing-rolling joints means that you will have less to carry around with you, which may appeal to the minimalist.

Machine Rolling

Rolling machines are great for novices and veterans alike. Unlike rolling by hand, rolling machines don't require fine motor skills. Consequently, they are an easy entry into the world of joint rolling and offer convenience and ease of use. While crafting a joint by hand can take time, rolling with a rolling machine can be much faster. It means you will be able to roll a few joints in a matter of minutes!

What you sacrifice for ease of use is the lack of control. When using a rolling machine, you will be limited to a single size and shape. Lucky for us, there are different size rolling machines on the market! Rolling machines offer uniformity. Once you learn how to use a rolling machine, each joint will look identical. Using rolling machines to roll joints means you have one extra thing to carry around. But most rolling machines are small enough to slip onto your pocket.

When deciding if a rolling machine is right for you, remember that there are no rules. You don’t have to commit to using the device exclusively. Feel free to mix it up! A novice may wish to practice the art of hand-rolling on the weekend, and use a machine to get the job done quickly during the week. A veteran joint roller may want a tool to help roll a stack of joints in minutes. Whatever the case may be, a quality rolling machine will get the job done fast and produce uniform joints every time!

Types of Rolling Machines

Now that you know the benefits of using a rolling machine, you may be wondering which one is right for you. There are a few different types of rolling machines available today. Each offers various levels of automation. Some devices are designed simply and will fit in your pocket. Others are more cumbersome, and some even need electricity. Before we look at the factors that you should consider, let's look at some of the types of rolling machines.

Automatic Rolling Machines

Automatic machines are ultra-convenient. Some of these machines come in the form of a case that fits easily in your pocket. They usually have a compartment for storing your rolling papers as well as your ground herb. Automatic rolling machines are the perfect option for someone who values ease of use and portability.

Electric Rolling Machines

As the name suggests, electric rolling machines run on electricity. These rolling machines can be expensive. They take all the effort out of joint rolling by doing most of the work for you. But, you will still need to grind your herb before using these machines. Electric machines can make lots of uniform joints quickly, but they are not very portable.

Injector Machines 

Injector machines usually have a reservoir to store your herb filler. These machines fill your empty joint by injecting a pre-rolled paper with your favorite herb. They tend to be a bit bulky and don’t allow for much control over the size and density of your joint. Some of these machines are manually operated, while others are automatic and electric.

Cone Filling Machines

Cone filling machines are like injecting machines because they need pre-rolled paper cones. These machines are very convenient and can make filling pre-rolled cone papers easy. Some cone filling machines allow you to create many joints at once and others only one at a time. Cone filling machines are the ideal companion to Zig-Zag Cones, which are available in various of sizes.

Thumb Rolling Machines

The thumb roller is a classic hand rolling machine. This simple device has been around since the 1980s and has remained popular for a good reason. Thumb rolling machines are affordable and relatively easy to use.

You will be able to take a thumb rolling machine anywhere as it is lightweight and will fit in your pocket or handbag. They come in a variety of different sizes but the only downfall is that they can only create cylindrically shaped joints. The thumb roller may take a bit of getting used to, but it is far easier than rolling by hand and can produce a uniform joint in seconds.

Essential Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rolling Machine

With all the options out there, you may be struggling to settle on a rolling machine. The best place to start is to look at your needs and lifestyle. If you are always on the move, a big bulky rolling machine isn’t ideal. If you are looking to pack seriously fat cones, a small hand rolling machine is probably not the best option. Read on to learn more about the factors to consider when choosing a rolling machine.

Frequency

If you plan to use your rolling machine often, you need to consider the brand. Firstly, choose a rolling machine that has been manufactured by a brand known for high-quality products to ensure that your rolling machine will survive the rigors of frequent use. Consider the material used in the construction as some materials are stronger than others. Some brands will supply replacement parts, and others will provide a warranty. These are things to consider, especially when purchasing an expensive rolling machine.

Joint Size and Shape

If you are looking for total creative freedom, rolling machines may not be suitable for you. But, if you are looking for an easy and fast way to roll joints, then rolling machines are your best bet. Filling-type rolling machines will allow you to easily fill large pre-rolled cones but will not do the rolling part for you.

Automatic rolling machines will only allow you to roll joints in a single size and shape. You won’t be able to roll tapered joints with one of these rolling machines. The same goes for thumb rolling machines. But, you will be able to vary the size of your joints by using different-sized thumb rolling machines.

Rolling Machine Portability

Pocket-sized automatic rolling machines and thumb rollers are highly portable making them ideal for travelers or people on the move. Electric rolling machines often require a power outlet and adapters and are far less portable. Consider your lifestyle before investing in a large and expensive rolling machine.

Cost Considerations

Rolling machines can be expensive. This is not to say that cheaper machines are not a good option. In fact, the classic thumb rolling machine is an inexpensive option that will get the job done just as well as an expensive automatic roller. Consider how much you’re willing to spend and be sure to focus on a brand that is known for producing good quality products. As a rule of thumb, thumb rollers are the cheapest option, and electric rollers are some of the most expensive machines available.

How to Roll using a Thumb Rolling Machine

The thumb roller has been around for decades, and it is a favorite among long-time joint rollers and newcomers alike. This inexpensive machine is impressively simple and inexpensive. The thumb rolling machine consists of two roller rails within a frame and a soft sheet of vinyl that circles them. One roller is fixed, and the other roller slides to create an opening. Stay with us to find out how to roll joints with this handy hand rolling machine!

Loading the Thumb Rolling Machine

Slide the roller into the open position. Use your finger to press the vinyl sheet between the rollers to create room for your herb. Make sure not to use too much herb or too little herb. Using the correct amount is key to producing a joint that is not packed too tight or too loose. A joint that is packed too tight won’t draw well. A joint packed too loosely will be at risk of not burning evenly. Using the correct amount may take a little trial and error.

Place the herb into the rolling machine and make sure that it is evenly distributed within the length of the machine. Slide the roller into the closed position. Roll both rollers with your thumbs by dragging your thumbs over the top of the device. This readies the herb to accept the rolling paper.

Loading the Rolling Paper

With the fixed roller closest to you, feed a sheet of rolling paper into the thumb roller with the gum strip on top and facing you. Be sure to roll both rollers simultaneously to avoid the joint being too tight. It may take a few rolls before the initial pinch - when the edge of the paper catches in the rollers and feeds through. Roll with your thumb and fingers until just the gum strip is sticking out of the roller. Lick or moisten the gum strip before completing the roll. Roll both rollers to feed the rest of the paper into the machine. Roll the rails a bit more to ensure the gum adheres to the paper inside the machine.

Release the Joint

Once you have inserted the rolling paper, licked, and rolled the rollers, you can slide the rail into the open position to release the joint. If it is rolled too tightly, try using less herb and rolling both rails together on your next try. If the joint is loosely filled, try using more herb filler. When using a thumb roller, you can place a filter tip next to the herb before you roll. You might not get the perfect joint on your first try, but once you know how much filler to use, you will be rolling perfect joints in no time.

Zig-Zag Rolling Machines

Zig-Zag rolling machines are made from high-quality materials and are designed to withstand frequent use. Zig-Zag rolling machines are available in 70mm, 78mm, and 100mm. These sizes allow you to roll small 1 ¼ sized joints as well as the much-loved king size. These rolling machines are the perfect companion to Zig-Zag rolling papers. Try out the classic French Orange or the Zig-Zag Organic Hemp range. Create more uniform joints without the hassle of rolling by hand with the help of Zig-Zag rolling machines.

Conclusion

When choosing a rolling machine, you need to consider your lifestyle, budget, and specific needs. Cone filling machines are great for filling pre-rolled cones. Most other rollers are not able to roll tapered joints. Instead, they roll joints with the same diameter from one end to the other. Electric rolling machines can  roll joints quickly but need to be plugged in. Automatic rollers and Thumb rollers are ideal for tossing into a backpack and are relatively inexpensive. Whatever machine you decide on, be sure to support a reputable brand known for producing high-quality products.