Rolling your own smoke has become a popular choice among enthusiasts. It offers control over taste, quality, and overall experience. At the center of this ritual is the paper you choose. With so many options available, selecting the right one can be overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll compare the most common raw papers and help you determine which type is best for your needs.
Why Raw Papers Matter
Raw papers are more than just a rolling tool. They influence flavor, burn rate, and even health. Thin papers tend to burn slower, giving a longer session, while thicker ones offer more control. Some papers are natural, while others include additives to enhance durability or flavor. Choosing the right paper ensures a smooth and enjoyable smoking experience every time.
Types of Raw Papers
There are several types of raw papers, each with unique benefits. Understanding these can help you pick the perfect one.
1. Classic Hemp Papers
Hemp papers are made from natural fibers. They are thin but strong, making them easy to roll and durable enough to hold your smoke.
Pros:
Natural flavor
Slow and even burn
Eco-friendly
Cons:
Slightly higher cost than some alternatives
Best for: Smokers who prefer a natural and consistent experience.
Hemp papers often contain minimal chemicals. They also work well with sticky concentrates, providing a cleaner burn and pure taste.
2. Rice Papers
Rice papers are ultra-thin and almost transparent. They are known for a slow burn and clean taste.
Pros:
Very thin
Minimal interference with flavor
Burns slowly
Cons:
Can tear easily
More difficult for beginners to roll
Best for: Those who want a smooth and pure smoking experience.
Rice papers are preferred by flavor-focused smokers because they don’t affect the taste of your smoke.
3. Wood Pulp Papers
Wood pulp papers are thicker and easier to handle. They are widely available and suitable for beginners.
Pros:
Strong and durable
Easy to roll
Affordable
Cons:
Burns faster
Can produce slightly harsher smoke
Best for: New smokers or anyone who wants a reliable and practical option.
Many wood pulp papers include additives to ensure consistent burning. While they may slightly affect flavor, they are convenient and beginner-friendly.
4. Organic Papers
Organic papers are chemical-free and made from natural materials. They are designed for a smooth, clean smoking experience.
Pros:
Chemical-free
Eco-friendly
Smooth taste
Cons:
Slightly expensive
Limited availability
Best for: Health-conscious smokers who want a natural option.
Organic papers appeal to environmentally aware smokers. Their slow and even burn makes them a favorite among experienced users.
5. Flavored Papers
Flavored papers come in a variety of tastes, such as vanilla, strawberry, or chocolate. They add a fun twist to smoking.
Pros:
Available in many flavors
Easy to find
Adds a pleasant aroma
Cons:
Flavor may overpower natural smoke
May contain additives
Best for: Casual smokers or anyone looking to experiment with flavors.
Flavored papers are ideal for social settings or trying something new. However, the original flavor of your smoke may not come through as clearly.
Key Factors to Consider
When choosing raw papers, consider these factors carefully:
Burn Rate
The burn rate affects the length of your session. Thin papers burn slower, while thick papers burn faster and may produce more ash.
Paper Strength
Strong papers are easier to roll and less likely to tear. Hemp and organic papers usually provide the best balance.
Taste
Some papers can affect flavor. Rice and organic papers preserve taste, while wood pulp may add a slight harshness.
Chemical Content
Avoid papers with heavy chemicals or additives. Organic or natural hemp papers offer the cleanest smoke.
Rolling Ease
Beginners should start with thicker papers. Ultra-thin papers require more skill to handle.
Price
Paper prices vary widely. Flavored and organic papers tend to be more expensive, while wood pulp is affordable.
Popular Paper Brands
Some brands are known for consistent quality and performance:
RAW: Offers unbleached hemp, organic, and flavored options.
Elements: Famous for ultra-thin rice papers with slow burn.
OCB: Provides a wide range of papers, including organic and flavored.
Juicy Jay’s: Known for flavored papers with fun options.
These brands are trusted for quality, reliability, and innovation.
Paper Sizes
Raw papers come in various sizes, and size affects the smoking experience:
Single Wide: Compact and easy to roll, perfect for personal use.
1 1/4: Popular among casual smokers for a balanced size.
1 1/2 or King Size: Ideal for sharing or longer sessions.
Choosing the right size ensures even burning and a comfortable session.
Tips for Rolling the Perfect Joint
Even high-quality papers won’t help if rolling skills are weak. Follow these tips:
Use fresh papers: Old papers can tear or burn unevenly.
Grind your herb evenly: Ensures smooth burn and consistent flavor.
Roll tightly but not too tight: Avoid crushed paper or restricted airflow.
Seal properly: Slightly moisten the edge for a secure seal.
Practice regularly: Skill improves with repetition.
Starting with thicker papers helps beginners transition to thinner varieties more easily.
Papers for Different Occasions
Choose your paper based on the situation:
Solo sessions: Rice or hemp papers for slow, enjoyable smoking.
Group sessions: King-size or flavored papers to impress friends.
On-the-go: Single wide papers for convenience and discretion.
Matching paper type to occasion improves your overall experience. Many smokers keep multiple types handy.
Environmental Considerations
Eco-conscious smokers should consider hemp or organic papers. These are biodegradable and reduce environmental impact. Avoid heavily processed or chemically treated papers.
Additional Benefits of Raw Papers
Choosing the right paper offers more than taste improvement:
Healthier smoke: Fewer chemicals and toxins.
Better airflow: Leads to consistent burn.
Less waste: Produces minimal ash with clean combustion.
Even small improvements enhance the overall smoking experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these mistakes to get the best experience:
Using damp or old papers
Rolling too tightly or loosely
Ignoring flavor combinations
Choosing the wrong size for your session
Correcting these mistakes ensures smoother, more enjoyable sessions.
How to Store Raw Papers
Proper storage extends the life of your papers. Keep them cool, dry, and away from sunlight. Some smokers use cases to protect papers and rolling accessories. Proper storage prevents warping, tearing, or moisture damage.
