When it comes to size and function, consider whether you are looking for a tin to store your stash around the house, or something that is a bit more portable.  A larger tin that is somewhat decorative is likely to be great for home use, while something that fits neatly into a jacket pocket is a good idea for on the go.  With either size, make sure the lid to the tin seals firmly, so the contents are kept fresh at all times.

The design is also an important consideration.  Some people prefer a thin and somewhat narrow tin with a small lid at the top, while others enjoy a box style tin with a lid that is the same length and width as the main section of the storage area.  Go with something that you find appealing to the eye, and you’ll be much happier with the purchase.

Last, there is always the matter of price.  You can spend a great deal of money on a tobacco tin, especially if you want one that stores stash lighters, flints, and rolling papers along with the tobacco and herbs.  But there are also some bargains out there, especially if you are willing to look around a bit.

Check your local head shop, including second hand stores and charity shops, since you never know what will turn up in those establishments.  Don’t forget to look for online bargains as well.  With a little effort, you can find a tin that is ideal for your purposes and within your budget.

1. Rolling Papers

The better the rolling papers, the better your joint will smoke and the fewer unwanted chemicals you will inhale.
There are all sorts of good, natural papers on the market so it’s worth trying them out. Some of the best include OCB, Smoking, and Kulu. Rips are also great fun – you can tear these off at any length to get whatever size spliff you want!

Bad papers come far too thick so you take in a lot of carbon, they’re
bleached white and often the gum doesn’t stick properly. This gets very
frustrating, especially if you’ve already smoked a couple of fat ones!

2. Roach

Roach is used to filter much of the tar and carcinogens as well as stopping
you from getting bits of tobacco and weed in your mouth. It also gives a good
shape to the joint and makes passing it around much more practical.

Roach can be made from many things that you can find around the house, such
as empty papers packets, thick magazine covers, family get-together invitations…
As long as it’s thick enough to stay straight once you’ve rolled
it and thin enough for a reasonable sized joint end – well, you’ll
get the hang of it.

Some professional tokers prefer to buy roach rather than faff around tearing
things up all the time. It comes in little ready made books of strips that are
just the right size and thickness. Some even come with perforated lines to make
them easier to roll. It’s good to know that people get paid to think about
the true needs of the toking community!

3. Mixture

If you prepare a decent mix, rolling your joint will be much easier. Take time
to remove lumps or sticks if you’re using herb. Aim to get your mix as
fine as possible. A grinder is an invaluable tool for regular herb smokers.
Grinders crush up your bud so that you’re left with a mix that you can
spread evenly into your joint. A grinder is a good, economical investment –
you’ll find your weed lasts longer once it’s ground. A pestle and
mortar is another option, or a decent pair of scissors can also suffice.

If you’re using hash, try to crumble it into a fine powder as you put
it into your joint. You don’t want large lumps to get in there – they
always fall onto your best trousers and burn holes when you’re smoking
your joint. These lumps are called hot-rocks. The way your hash crumbles does
depend on the type and quality. If you need a hash grinder you can get these
at most good head shops.

Tobacco is generally used in joints to aid burning, to make your weed last
longer and to stop you getting too wasted too quickly. However, if you’re
using weed (not hash) a pure cannabis joint is a total treat.