Pre Rolled Cones: Everything You Need to Know

The pre rolled cone is one of the ubiquitous symbols of the modern cannabis industry, a perfect consumer product that provides a quick and easy way to consume cannabis. Plus, the ease of use in packing a pre-roll, instead of rolling a joint, has led many to creating these fine products at home on their own.

But the pre rolled cone is also the perfect canvas for innovation and craft. This has led to a wide array of choices, from sizes that range from the personal mini pre rolled cone to giant party pass-arounds, all in multiple paper types from the classic refined white to natural brown and organic hemp, and even hemp pre rolled cones made with hemp wraps. Modern pre-roll consumers can even add premium wood, glass or ceramic filter tips to further personalize their experience.

So let’s breakdown everything you need to know about the pre-rolled cone, it’s cousin the pre rolled tube and how to craft your own versions to make sure you always Enjoy Your Day.

1. What is a Pre-Rolled Cone?
2. What is the Difference Between Pre Rolled Cones and Pre Rolled Tubes?
3. Pre-Rolled Cone Sizes
   • The Pre Rolled Cross Cone
4. Pre Rolled Cone Paper Choices
   • Refined White
   • Natural Brown
   • Organic Hemp
5. The Different Kinds of Pre-Rolls
• Individually Wrapped Pre-Rolls
• Home Packed Pre Roll Cones
• Pre-Roll Blunts
6. Pre Rolled Cones vs Pre Rolled Blunts
   • Hemp Wrap Pre Rolled Blunt Tubes
   • Hybrid Hemp Wrap Pre-Roll Blunt Cones
7. Non-Traditional and Botanical Pre Rolled Cones
8. Why Choose Pre Rolled Cones?
9. How To Pack a Pre Rolled Cone
10. Infused Pre Rolls and How to Make Them
11. Pre Rolled Cones with Premium Filter Tips
12. Pre Rolled Cone Fillers
    • The Perfect Pack Machine
    • The Fast Fill Rolling Tray
13. Pro-Tip: How to Prevent a Pre Roll from Canoeing

What is a Pre-Rolled Cone?

A pre-roll is simply a joint that’s been prepared ahead of time and is ready to smoke, whether purchased at a dispensary or packed at home in preparation for a future session.

Typically crafted with care and usually including a filter – sometimes called a crutch – to create an optimal smoking experience. The only difference from traditional joints and blunts is you don't have to roll them to enjoy.

When filled, these ready-to-go joints are sometimes called different names based on various factors like texture, filling, width and size. For example, you might encounter them as cannabis cigarettes, caviar cones or even "dogwalkers," with each label hinting at a unique journey, but all following the same basic idea to its own unique conclusion.

Pre rolled cones come in multiple paper types and sizes, offering each smoker the opportunity to create their perfect smoking experience.

What is the Difference Between Pre Rolled Cones and Pre Rolled Tubes?

Though similar to the traditional cone in many ways, the pre rolled tube provides its own unique smoking experience that some consumers prefer.

Unlike pre-rolled cones, which have a funnel-like shape, pre-rolled tubes are cylindrical shaped and maintain a consistent width throughout. Their design is reminiscent of classic tobacco cigarettes, which adds to their appeal to many users.

The uniformity provided by the shape makes them easier to pack, but may result in a less intense smoking experience compared to cones.

Like cones, pre rolled tubes come in various paper and size options, providing something for every taste. There are however differences between pre rolled cones and pre rolled tubes, so it’s worth trying out each to see what you prefer and which works best for your lifestyle or plans.

Pre-Rolled Cone Sizes

The Pre Rolled Cone can be made in any size, but there are a few standard sizes that line up with popular weights for pre-rolled joints, with the standard caveat that particle size and moisture content may affect weight.

The standard sizes for pre-roll cones are 109mm, 98mm, 84mm and 70mm in length. They come in a variety of diameters and are designed to fit between one and a quarter gram of flower. Traditionally, pre rolled cones have a 26mm filter.

But while the length in millimeters is key for producers, consumers know them by more familiar names, like Kingsize, 1 ¼ or dogwalkers, but how do they relate and how much do each hold?

The most common sizes are the Kingsize cone, which measures 109mm and holds about 1 gram of flower, and the 1 ¼ size cone, which measures 84mm and will hold a half gram of flower. The “dogwalker,” or mini cone, is a fairly new addition to the mix, measuring 70mm and able to hold about 0.3 grams of flower, perfect for a quick smoke when, say, walking the dog.

There are also 98mm cones, which will hold about 0.7 grams of flower, as well as “reefer” or slim cones, which also measure 98mm, but only hold about a half gram.

For pre rolled tubes, the sizes are similar. The 1 ¼ size artisan tubes, for example, measure 84mm and will hold about a half gram of flower.

However, when checking sizes of pre rolled tubes, it is important to check the diameter of the tube. For example, a Kingsize, or 109mm pre rolled blunt tube with a 9mm diameter will hold a full gram, which is pretty standard for that length.

Our Fill-a Blunts “Fatty” pre rolled blunt tubes, however, have a diameter of 11mm, so they will hold about 2 grams of flower, despite being the same 109mm length

The Pre Rolled Cross Cone

While rolling a joint can be difficult at times, rolling complicated joints, such as the classic cross joint is even more so.

First seen in the mid-1990s, the cross joint broke into the national consciousness in the 2008 stoner comedy "Pineapple Express" starring Seth Rogen and James Franco and written by Rogen and his writing partner, Evan Goldberg.

Rolling your own cross joint is not an easy process master, but it can be done. However, much like joints, there is a modern option available: the Smoke Temple Pre Rolled Cross Cone. A three-tipped version of the classic pre rolled cone, the Smoke Temple Cross Cone comes in two ready-to-pack sizes, the 1/14 size that will hold about a gram of flower and a Kingsize version that can pack up to 3 grams.

Simply pack the three ends of the cone like you would a traditional pre rolled cone, twist and then grab a friend to help you light it!

Pre Rolled Cone Paper Choices

Like traditional rolling paper booklets, pre-rolled cones are available in various options to suit different tastes. The choices are abundant, from ultra-refined white paper to less-refined, natural brown paper, palm leaf, organic hemp wraps and organic hemp paper. Each material offers unique characteristics, affecting burn rate, flavor and overall smoking experience.

So whether you prefer a classic clean burn or a natural, earthier taste, there's a pre-rolled cone to match your preferences.

Refined White

Refined white paper pre rolled cones are among the most traditional and widely used types of pre-roll cones.

Sometimes referred to as “rice paper,” the name is a misnomer as these cones are typically made from wood pulp sourced from sustainable forests that have been refined to remove as much wood pulp as possible. The refining process removes impurities from the paper, resulting in a smooth and clean smoking experience, leaving them with their bright, white color and totally flavor-free.

Natural Brown

Natural Brown paper pre-roll cones offer a distinct alternative to white paper counterparts, adding a rustic and natural aesthetic to the smoking experience. Typically crafted from less-refined paper, natural brown paper pre-roll cones retain more natural fibers and texture than refined white paper, giving them their color.

One of the notable features of brown paper cones is their earthy appearance, which often appeals to consumers seeking a more natural or organic smoking experience.

Organic Hemp

Organic hemp paper is a compelling option for those seeking a classic joint experience with an eco-friendly twist. Crafters use sustainable hemp fibers to make organic hemp paper, providing smokers with a slow-burning, eco-friendly alternative to traditional rolling papers.

One of the key benefits of organic hemp paper is its sustainability. Hemp is known for its rapid growth and minimal environmental impact, making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious consumers.

Organic hemp paper also offers a slow-burning experience, allowing smokers to savor their herbs for extended periods. Furthermore, organic hemp paper sometimes imparts a subtle "earthy" flavor to the smoking experience, adding a unique twist to each puff.

The Different Kinds of Pre-Rolls

Because of its simplicity, innovation within the pre roll category is high and consumers have myriad choices to find the one that is right for them or their mood.

Individually Wrapped Pre-Rolls

Individually wrapped pre-rolls offer a straightforward solution, particularly for those prioritizing convenience. It is ideal for individuals with time constraints or those desiring a quick and straightforward cannabis experience without complications. The discreet packaging makes individually wrapped pre-rolls suitable for both on-the-go and at-home consumption, providing a quick and accessible way to consume.

Home-Packed Pre Roll Cones

Pre rolled cones are an ideal choice for those seeking to break free from dispensary offerings and create their own experience.

Pre rolled, but not pre-packed, these beauties allow you to easily fill the cone of your choice with your preferred flower. The efficiency and control over the packing of the pre rolled cones make them a popular option for those who value a personalized streamlined cannabis experience.

Pre-Roll Blunts

Pre rolled blunts are the answer for the enthusiast who wants the classic blunt experience without all the work. Usually made with hemp wraps or other non-tobacco-based papers, pre rolled blunt cones offer the signature taste and slower-smoking experience of a blunt without the need for intricate rolling.

Pre Rolled Cones vs Pre Rolled Blunts

While the traditional pre rolled cone is designed to replicate the joint experience, they are not the only cones on the market. Some smokers prefer the slower-burning and more flavorful blunt to the traditional joint, leading to the development of the blunt cone.

Blunt cones are easy-to-pack pre-rolled cones that simulate classic tobacco wraps, but without the health concerns that come with the nicotine and other chemicals in traditional cigar wraps. Though there are several different types of blunt wraps and blunt cones on the market, ranging from tea leaves or palm leaves to other botanical options like cocoa or Goji berry, the most common non-tobacco wraps are made with hemp or a hemp hybrid.

Hemp Wrap Pre Rolled Blunt Tubes

With a rich, brown color and earthy taste, hemp wrap blunts are a great full-flavor alternative to traditional tobacco-wrapped blunts and a perfect complement to your flower, no matter the strain.

Classic hemp wraps are made with ground up hemp biomass and a small amount of hemp fiber. These wraps contain a lot of water and the hydrogen bonds in the water add strength to the hemp fibers, but when these wraps dry out, the water bonds go away and they have a tendency to crack.

At DaySavers, our hemp wraps are sourced from Europe and are all regulated by the EU. Our Fill-a Blunts hemp wrap blunt tubes are made with the finest all-natural, 100% tobacco-free hemp.

However, hemp wraps are not perfect and there are a few downsides to be factored in, particularly their moisture sensitivity. Hemp wraps can dry out and become brittle if not used quickly or properly cared for, such as being stored with a humidity pack.

Which is why we developed our special DaySavers hybrid hemp blunt wraps and pre rolled blunt tubes.

Hybrid Hemp Wrap Pre-Roll Blunt Cones

Made in the U.S.A., our hybrid hemp wrap is made with a higher percentage of hemp fiber and lower moisture content, so they do not rely on the hydrogen bonds in the water for strength.

Compared to traditional hemp wraps, which dry out over time, the hybrid hemp wrap pre rolled blunt cones (available in brown and green) and our hybrid hemp wrap artisan tubes (in green and pink) are more durable and less moisture-sensitive, so they provide the smooth-burning, slow smoke that blunt fans expect without drying out and cracking like traditional hemp wraps.

And like the classic hemp wrap, our hybrid hemp wrap blunt cones are THC- and tobacco-free. They are also flavor-free, but have a subtle, earthy flavor that also enhances but never overpowers the flower you pack into them.

Non-Traditional and Botanical Pre Rolled Cones

In the modern cannabis industry, paper and hemp are not the only choices for making pre-rolled cones, with many companies offering cones made of rose petals, palm leaves or other botanical ingredients.

But while these products make interesting novelties and alternatives to more traditional pre rolled cones, the products themselves are not always the wisest choice, as they can hide dangers that are not present in paper products.

Rose petals, for example, have a distinctive look and feel and offer a unique and fragrant experience for consumers. However, roses are notoriously difficult to cultivate without the use of pesticides. While this may not pose a significant issue for consumers using flowers for ornamental purposes, inhaling pesticides into your lungs can be hazardous to your health.

At DaySavers, we do not carry rose petal pre rolled products because we have been unable to consistently source rose petals that meet safety standards, some testing positive for harmful substances such as aspergillus, a fungus known to cause serious illness when inhaled, or pesticides like acephate, azoxystrobin, or cyprodinil.

It’s a similar situation with palm leaf pre-rolled cones and tubes. Like rose cones, the natural leaves and materials used to make palm leaf cones and tubes can often contain unsafe levels of heavy metals, pesticides and/or mold. The heavy metals come from the soil these palm style leaves grow in and the pesticides are sprayed directly on these crops or drift from nearly farms.

In fact, in 2022, the Colorado Medical Enforcement Division issued a recall for several palm leaf products that were found to contain unsafe mold and yeast levels. That report came on the heels of a 2021 study from SC Labs that found several rolling paper and palm wrap brands failing testing for pesticides, including several palm leaf wraps.

Why Choose Pre Rolled Cones?

There are plenty of reasons to smoke pre-rolls, from the convenience to the innovative nature of the product, but at its heart, the reason to choose a pre rolled cone is even simpler: everyone loves a joint, but not everyone can roll a joint.

Pre rolled cones are easier to use than traditional rolling papers – especially if paired with a cone filling machine like the Perfect Pack or an accessory like the Fast Fill Rolling Tray – and already come with a filter built in. They also allow for a great deal of personalization, from the choice of paper and filter to the flower you pack inside, as well as any concentrates you might add. Plus, they are easy to share and last longer than packing a bowl or bong.

How To Pack a Pre Rolled Cone

Pre-rolls are among the most popular products at dispensaries across the country, with sales ranking third among categories. But more and more people are making their own pre-rolls at home, using pre-rolled cones as the foundation.

Packing a pre-roll at home is an easy way to ensure that your pre-roll provides exactly the experience you want to allow you to enjoy your day, your way. All it takes is a few simple steps:

First, choose your pre rolled cone. Pick the size and paper type that works best for you and the session you are planning.

Next, grind your flower. We recommend a Flower Mill, but a traditional toothed grinder gets the job done. For a pre-roll, give about 7-10 turns.

Then simply begin loading the ground flower into your cone little by little, using a packing tool or wooden poking stick to achieve your preferred density (this will take some experimentation to find your sweet spot). Bouncing the filter side on a flat surface or rolling tray will help ensure a proper pack.

That’s it, really. But for a step-by-step look at exactly what to do, as well as a few tips and tricks, check out our blog on How to Pack a Pre-Roll.

For an easier way to pack a pre-foll, consider picking up a Perfect Pack Machine, designed specifically for cannabis and able to pack any size pre rolled cone or tube in just seconds. Similarly, the Fast Fill Rolling Tray is a simple and easy way to pack a pre-roll. Simply drop your pre-rolled cone into one of the included funnels, push your flower into the hole, tamp it down and you’re ready to go.

Infused Pre Rolls and How to Make Them

One of the main reasons pre-rolls are so popular is that they provide an excellent canvas for innovation, which has led to the rise of the infused pre-roll as the top segment of the pre-roll category. Infused pre-rolls combine flower with a concentrate or concentrates to enhance the potency and/or flavor of the pre-roll.

But like packing your own pre-roll, you can infuse your own pre-rolls at home with your choice of flower and concentrate, as well as paper type and cone size. It’s a cost-efficient and customizable way to replicate the high-potency, high-flavor experience of an infused pre-roll.

One of the most common methods of infusing concentrates into pre-rolls is applying the concentrate to the outside joint. You can create many combinations, but distillate mixed with kief is the most popular. This is when a layer of distillate is added to the outside of the joint and then sprinkled with kief.

Pre-rolls that are infused internally are also popular and have the benefit of not directly combusting the oil as much as pre-rolls that are painted on the outside. There are several effective methods for infusing pre-rolls internally.

One common approach is to infuse pre-rolls internally by mixing the ground flower with concentrate after grinding. You can also line the center of the flower with concentrate before packing or rolling or inject it down the middle of the joint for a concentrated core.

Another approach is to smear the oil onto a rolling paper with a dab tool. You can also roll the oil into a rod or snake and roll the joint. Alternatively, you can use the dab tool to take a small piece of oil and mix it into ground flower, which gives you small chunks of infused flower to mix into the joint. You can also break up or mix in “dry” concentrates (like THC isolate, kief, and hash) more easily.

It takes a little practice, but the results are well worth it.

Pre Rolled Cones with Premium Filter Tips

Among the innovations the modern cannabis industry has brought to pre rolls in recent years, premium filter tips are among the most exciting for enhancing the pre-roll experience.

While most pre-rolls come with a paper filter rolled right in, upgrading to a premium filter tip allows for a new level of personalization.

Wood filter tips provide an additional level of protection against particles coming through and help cool the smoke, plus the natural feel of a wood filter on the lips is an immediately noticeable upgrade over standard paper. Wood filter tips are also available in multiple flavors, such as vanilla- or sugar-flavored, and because the filter tips themselves are infused with the flavor – as opposed to the paper or through a flavor bead – the taste stays on the lips and does not interfere with the flavor of the flower in the pre-roll.

For pre-roll smokers looking for a little luxury, glass filters tips can easily elevate any pre-roll session. The smooth, glass filters not only block particles from getting through, but the glass filter helps further cool the smoke and the additional weight of the glass on the lips truly denotes a premium item.

For the height of pre-roll luxury, choose a ceramic filter tip. With the same smooth feel and particle-blocking power as a glass filter tip, but an enhanced cooling feature due to the nature of ceramics over glass. Plus, the additional weight and cool feel on the lips make any pre-roll an immediate luxury item.

Pre Rolled Cone Fillers

While most cone-filling machines are designed for producers and processors, there are several small devices designed to help home-packers get the most from their pre-rolls. Two of the best options are the Perfect Pack Machine and the Fast Fill Rolling Tray.

The Perfect Pack Machine

Designed exclusively for cannabis, the Perfect Pack uses an auger to fill pre rolled cones and pre rolled tubes from the filter-up, resulting in perfectly packed cones every time. In just seconds, the Perfect Pack can fill almost any size cone or tube, and the built-in compression knob allows users to dial in the right density for their choice of flower, resulting in a personalized, premium pre-roll after each use.

The Fast Fill Rolling Tray

For a quick, manual option, the Fast Fill Rolling Tray provides users with a simple way to pack their pre-rolled cones.

The Fast Fill Rolling Tray is a small, portable rolling tray with legs to lift it off the table and built-in slots for adding included funnels that fit pre-rolled cones in all standard sizes. Made of coated metal, like a standard rolling tray, consumers simply empty their ground flower on to the tray and then use the included brush to push the flower into the cones. The included tamping tool can then be used to achieve the right density for the chosen flower, no matter the particle size.

Pro-Tip: How to Prevent a Pre Roll from Canoeing

Whether store bought, home rolled or hand packed, nothing ruins a session like a pre roll canoeing, or burning unevenly down one side of the cone. But it is easy to prevent your pre rolls from canoeing, especially if you are packing your own pre-rolls.

One of the main reasons for a pre roll to canoe is packing uneven particle sizes, so again, make sure you give your flower a good grind before packing it into your cone. There can also be uneven moisture content in your flower, so if you can, let it sit out for a bit to let excess moisture evaporate, or consider protecting your stash with a humidity pack to create an equilibrium in your storage jar.

It’s also important to evenly pack your pre-roll so there are no air pockets, which can lead to hot spots and uneven burning. So make sure you use a tamping tool to pack your cones as evenly as possible.

And of course, always pick the best pre rolled cones on the market to ensure the paper itself burns evenly and slowly.

Brian Beckley spent 20 years as an award-winning newspaper journalist and editor, covering cities on both coasts before becoming Managing Editor of Marijuana Venture magazine, where he covered all aspects of the cannabis industry for five years. In his role with the magazine, he spoke at numerous cannabis conferences and hosted several media panels. Brian joined Custom Cones USA as lead copywriter in 2023.