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30 SEPTEMBER 2024
How to
It’s not about strapping anything to your back...
Back strapping, or back rolling, is simply the name of a technique that involves rolling a cigarette backwards with the cigarette paper inside out and the gum side of the paper facing outward.
But why? I hear you ask. Well, it’s popular with some smokers because it uses less paper and can result in a better taste.
After rolling, the excess paper is trimmed off, resulting in a slightly tighter roll and less paper used. This technique can be used by anyone looking to reduce the amount of paper in their smoke or achieve a more aesthetically pleasing roll.
BACK STRAPPING: ROLLING A CIGARETTE BACKWARDS
In this blog, we’ll look at the pros and cons of back strapping and explain the technique so you can try it for yourself. Rolling your own cigarettes has long been a popular choice for smokers who like to have more control over their smoking experience.
Whether it's to save money or simply for the satisfaction of a hands-on process, rolling your own cigarettes can offer a unique experience. But like any technique, it comes with its pros and cons so let's dive into the details.
back strapping
the pros
1. Less Paper to Smoke
One of the primary reasons smokers opt for back strapping is the reduction in paper. By rolling the cigarette with the gum on the outside and trimming the excess, you can significantly decrease the amount of paper in your cigarette which means you’ll burn less paper.
2. Better Taste
Less paper means the tobacco taste will tend to come through more prominently, and you may find the taste of the cigarette is enhanced.
3. Aesthetically Pleasing
Back rolling can produce a very neat looking cigarette since the paper is tightly wrapped, and the excess is trimmed away which can be particularly satisfying for anyone who takes pride in their rolling skills.
4. Customisation
The back strapping method allows smokers to customise their cigarette size more easily. If you prefer a thinner or shorter cigarette, back rolling gives you more control over the final product.
5. Cost-Efficiency
Since you're using less paper, you'll need to purchase
rolling papers less frequently. While the savings might be small, over time, it
can add up, especially for regular smokers.
6. Improved Burn Rate
When done correctly, back-rolled cigarettes tend to burn more evenly. The tighter roll and reduced paper can help the cigarette burn at a consistent rate.
back strapping
the cons
1. Increased Difficulty
Do you like a challenge? Back rolling is not the easiest method as the technique requires a steady hand, precision, and experience to get right. If you're not accustomed to rolling your own cigarettes, this method might be frustrating and time consuming.
2. The Tricky Bit
After rolling, you'll need to trim the excess paper which can be a bit tricky and may result in wasted tobacco if not done carefully.
3. Risk of Unravelling
The trimming process can leave less paper to hold the cigarette together, increasing the chance of it coming apart and because the gum is on the outside, there's a slight risk that the cigarette might unravel if it’s not rolled tightly enough.
4. It's Time Consuming
Compared to the standard rolling technique, back-rolling takes a little more time. You roll the cigarette, lick the gum, then need to trim the excess paper. For anyone looking for a quick smoke, this extra time might be a drawback.
5. Precision Required
Every step requires precision (though not necessarily Precision papers) and a slight mistake in rolling or trimming can ruin the entire cigarette, meaning you might have to start over.
How to Back strap with Rizla
If you’re a seasoned smoker who’s interested in giving it a try, here’s what you will need and how to back strap:
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Rolling paper
Depending on your preference of papers, you may choose Rizla Medium Thin Classic Green for this rather than a thinner paper like Precision or Silver.
Tobacco
Filter (OPTIONAL)
Rolling machine (optional)
Not everyone uses a rolling tray but the Rizla Rolling Machine can make rolling easier.
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1. Lay out your rolling paper
Lay out the paper with the adhesive strip facing you and the sticky side down. If you’re using a filter, place it at one end of the paper.
2. Add the tobacco
Add it by spreading your desired amount of tobacco along the length of the paper, making sure it’s distributed evenly to ensure a smooth roll.
Roll the paper by starting gently from the bottom, tucking the edge of the paper around the tobacco as you roll.
Roll it relatively tightly but not too tightly, as you want to ensure some airflow.
3. Lightly lick the adhesive strip
Once you have rolled the paper around the tobacco, lightly lick the adhesive strip. Since the paper is inside out, you’ll be licking the outside of the paper. Continue to roll until the adhesive strip sticks to the paper, securing the tobacco inside.
You may need to adjust the tightness to ensure the cigarette is firm but not
too tight. Find out more in How to Make a Rizla Stick.
4. Trim off any excess paper
If there’s any excess paper sticking out, you can trim it off with scissors or by carefully tearing it away. This step helps reduce the amount of paper you smoke, which can enhance the taste.
5. Pack the tobacco
Finally, gently pack the tobacco by tapping the filter end on a hard surface before lighting it for a new smoking experience.
So, back strapping your cigarette can offer some benefits, particularly for those who are skilled in rolling and seeking a new smoking experience.
The reduced paper content and the aesthetic appeal of a neatly rolled cigarette are significant advantages.
It's Challenging
The method does come with its challenges, including the increased difficulty, risk of unravelling, and the time it takes to perfect the roll.
For seasoned smokers who enjoy the art of rolling and are looking to enhance their smoking experience, back rolling can be a worthwhile technique to master. However, for beginner rollers or those who prioritize convenience, sticking to traditional rolling methods might be more practical.
Ultimately, whether or not to use the back strapping technique comes down to personal preference and the value you place on the pros versus the cons. If you like a challenge, you might find that the benefits outweigh the drawbacks for your rolling style.
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