WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT CANNABIS PRE-ROLLS

Cannabis flower and pre-rolls consistently top the charts as best-selling product categories in legal cannabis markets. In California, flower remains dominant, and pre-rolls offer one of the most convenient ways to enjoy it.

Whether you're new to cannabis or just want a more efficient option than hand-rolling, here’s everything to know about pre-rolls—from how they’re made to what to look for.

What Is a Cannabis Pre-Roll?

A cannabis pre-roll is a ready-made joint, meaning the flower is already ground, rolled, and packaged for you. Most pre-rolls come with a crutch (filter tip or mouthpiece) for better airflow and easier handling. While some joints are still hand-rolled, most commercial pre-rolls are filled using automated equipment for consistency.

Pre-rolls come in various sizes, with 0.5g, 0.7g, and 1g joints being the most common. Depending on the brand, you can buy them as singles or in multi-packs (usually 3, 5, or 7-packs).

What’s Inside the Pre-Roll Matters

Not all pre-rolls are created equal. One of the biggest indicators of quality is the type of cannabis used inside.

• Full-flower pre-rolls are packed with the same top-shelf nugs you’d buy by the eighth.

• Shake refers to the small bits of flower that fall off larger buds—still usable, but less robust.

• Trim consists of fan leaves and sugar leaves removed during the harvesting process, which typically contain lower levels of cannabinoids and terpenes.

Pro tip: If a pre-roll is noticeably more cost effective, it may be made from shake or trim. These offer a different experience than full-flower options and may lack the overall quality consumers are seeking.

Pre-Rolls vs Blunts

It’s common to hear people compare joints and blunts, especially since both can come pre-rolled.

• Pre-rolls are joints typically wrapped in rice, hemp, or other plant-based rolling papers.

• Blunts are usually rolled with tobacco or hemp wraps, offering a different burn and flavor profile.

• Some pre-rolls come in hemp wraps for those who prefer a fuller-bodied smoke without tobacco. Just note that tobacco-based wraps introduce nicotine, which alters the smoking experience and may be too harsh for some users.
  

Do you prefer buying cannabis pre-rolls or rolling your own?

What to Look For in a Quality Pre-Roll

If you're browsing dispensary shelves or online menus, here's what to consider before adding a pre-roll to your cart:

1. Harvest Date

The fresher, the better. Like all plant-based products, cannabis degrades over time, especially after being ground.

2. Input Material

Brands using full-flower tend to highlight it directly on their packaging. If it doesn’t say “full-flower,” there’s a good chance it’s made from shake or trim.

3. Brand Reputation

Stick with brands known for cultivating and sourcing premium flower. They’re more likely to ensure pre-roll quality matches the rest of their product lineup.

4. Packaging

Look for pre-rolls that are well-sealed and stored properly. Airtight tubes or pouches help maintain freshness, especially when they include humidity packs.

What's your preferred pre-roll size? .5 or a gram?

How Are Pre-Rolls Made?

Most large-scale pre-rolls are made using automated filling and rolling machines like the JuanaRoll, which can produce thousands of joints per hour. These machines ensure uniformity in packing and minimize air gaps or over-compression.

Wrapping materials also vary: rice paper, hemp paper, palm leaves, bamboo, and cellulose wraps are all used in modern pre-roll manufacturing. Some are even flavored, though regulations may restrict this in some markets.

Blunts provide a slightly different type of high.

Choosing Between Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid Pre-Rolls

These categories have long been used to help consumers navigate the cannabis market. However, what’s more meaningful is the cannabinoid and terpene profile of each strain. Plant compounds—not just labels—play a bigger role in how cannabis interacts with your body.

Since everyone's endocannabinoid system is different, trying a few strains and journaling your experiences can help you identify what works best for you.

Pre-Roll Sizes: What's Right for You?

Pre-rolls are designed with variety in mind. Whether you’re looking for a quick solo session or something to share, you’ll find:

• 0.5g pre-rolls for smaller or personal sessions

• 1g pre-rolls for longer sessions or sharing

• Multipacks totaling up to 3.5g (an eighth) for convenience

Some consumers prefer starting small and saving what’s left in a doob tube or joint case for later.

How Much Does a Pre-Roll Cost?

Pre-roll prices vary based on brand, quality, and location. Here's a general breakdown:

• Single pre-rolls range from $5 to $15
  

• Multipacks range from $20 to $60
  

Be cautious with extremely low-priced joints (under $5). While tempting, they often use lower-quality inputs and may deliver a less enjoyable experience.

Why Choose STIIIZY Pre-Rolls?

At STIIIZY, we’re committed to crafting cannabis experiences across all product formats—including pre-rolls. Our STIIIZY 40's pre-rolls are rolled with indoor flower and carefully selected inputs to maintain consistent quality, batch after batch.

Every pre-roll we produce is packed for freshness and intended for consumers who value excellence from the first spark to the last ash. Explore all of STIIIZY’s products here.