Blunt vs. Joint: A Comprehensive Comparison
Cannabis consumption has evolved significantly over the years, and two of the most popular methods of smoking are through blunts and joints. While they may seem similar at first glance, they differ in several crucial aspects. As a cannabis consumer, I would say that blunts and joints are special in my consumption practice. But what’s the difference between a blunt and a joint? And why do people prefer one over the other?
Let’s look at the differences between blunts and joints, covering everything from their history and construction to the experiences they offer and their cultural significance.
Cannabis smoking history
Although there are many different ways to consume cannabis, the most popular and well-known method of consumption is through combustion. Whether through a pipe, bong, bubbler, vape, blunt or joint. The most effective way to consume cannabis is by burning the flower and inhaling the smoke.
Before the world invented (some of the greatest) tools to consume cannabis, people have been consuming cannabis through papers and blunts for, we don’t really know for how long but we’ll say since man invented fire (don’t quote me on this). Suffice it to say for a very long time, both blunts and joints have a rich and enduring history in people’s lives, and with such a rich history, what’s the difference between a blunt and a joint that makes them so similar yet so polarizing?
So what’s a blunt?
Blunts have their roots in hip-hop and urban culture. They became popular in the 1990s and became a mainstream method to combine cannabis with tobacco. The name “blunt” comes from the brand Phillies Blunt, which was often used to roll them. The tobacco in the cigar was emptied, and cannabis was inserted, creating a unique smoking experience.
And what’s a joint?
Joints, also known as doobies, j’s, spliff, puff, the list goes on forever, have a longer history. They have been used for centuries across various cultures for the consumption of cannabis and tobacco and closely resemble cigarettes. Joints gained widespread popularity during the counterculture movements of the 1960s and 1970s. They’re typically rolled with thin, unflavoured rolling papers, allowing the pure taste of cannabis to shine through.
1. Joint rolling paper vs. Blunt wrap
So, what’s the difference between a blunt and a joint? The most noticeable difference between blunts and joints is the material used to wrap and roll the cannabis. Blunts are traditionally rolled using tobacco leaves or cigar paper. The tobacco leaf imparts a distinct flavour and aroma to the experience, combining the earthy notes of tobacco with the cannabis. This unique fusion can be appealing to some consumers but overpowering to others.
Given that traditionally, blunts are rolled with tobacco leaves, it also means that you will be consuming tobacco, and if this is a hard pass for you, many will opt for a hemp leaf or a natural alternative to avoid tobacco. Depending on the quality of the leaf alternative, it may or may not affect the flavours of the flower in your blunt.
Joints on the other hand are rolled with thin, unflavoured rolling papers. Rolling papers generally don’t introduce any additional taste to the smoking experience. Many rolling paper producers, brands and companies have introduced flavoured rolling papers and cones in various colours, patterns, and sizes.
However, it’s not known whether these flavoured rolling papers add to the smoking experience, but they make for a fun and colourful gimmick. This makes joints the preferred choice for those who want to taste the pure essence of their chosen strains because it allows consumers to fully appreciate the natural flavours and nuances of the cannabis strains they consume.
2. Size and Shape
Another noticeable difference between blunts and joints is their size and shape. A blunt and a joint are rolled in a way that resembles a cone; both usually consist of a filter with cannabis rolled tighter and thinner closer to the filter.
Blunts are typically larger and thicker than joints. The tobacco leaf or cigar paper is generally larger, but they also come in smaller sizes, allowing a more substantial amount of cannabis to be rolled into the wrap. Blunts burn more slowly and last longer than joints, making them ideal for larger group sessions.
Joints are super popular and are generally slimmer and more compact. Rolling papers and cones come in all sizes, with larger cones dubbed “king cones.” They are often rolled for solo smoking sessions or sharing with a small group of friends. The smaller size of joints means that they burn faster compared to blunts.
3. Cannabis taste, flavour and aroma profile
The choice between blunts and joints can significantly impact the flavour and aroma of your cannabis experience. Due to the use of tobacco leaves or cigar paper, blunts offer a unique flavour profile. You’ll experience a combination of the cannabis’s natural taste with the rich, earthy tobacco notes. This can be an acquired taste, appreciated by those who enjoy the fusion of these flavours.
Joints are usually rolled with unflavoured rolling papers, allowing the full spectrum of cannabis flavours to shine. This is particularly attractive to cannabis connoisseurs who want to savour the nuances of different strains without any interference from additional tastes. If you value the pure taste of cannabis, joints are likely your preferred choice.
4. Blunt and joint potency
The potency of your cannabis experience can vary depending on whether you choose a blunt or a joint. Blunts, being larger and capable of holding more cannabis, often pack a more potent punch. They suit consumers with higher tolerance levels or those seeking a stronger experience.
Joints, due to their smaller size, tend to contain less cannabis and are typically milder in potency. They are an excellent choice for those new to cannabis or prefer a more controlled and moderate high.
5. Rolling Difficulty
Rolling blunts and joints require different skills and techniques. Blunts can be more challenging to roll, especially for beginners. The thicker, less pliable nature of tobacco leaves or cigar paper can make achieving a tight and even roll more challenging. It often takes practice to master the art of rolling a perfect blunt.
Joints, with their thin rolling papers, are generally easier for beginners to roll. The papers are more forgiving and easier to manipulate, making joint rolling a good starting point for novice cannabis enthusiasts. Joint rolling papers are also extremely versatile and offer crafty cannabis consumers many ways to get creative with their joints.
Joint vs. Blunt: Which is better?
What’s the difference between a blunt and a joint that makes them so mild yet vast? Both blunts and joints have social and cultural connotations. They are sometimes seen as a social activity, with groups of friends passing a blunt or joint around as a symbol of camaraderie and relaxation.
Choosing between a blunt and a joint ultimately depends on personal preference. Your decision may be influenced by flavour, potency, rolling difficulty, and cultural context. Whether you prefer the robust taste of a blunt or the pure cannabis flavour of a joint, both options offer a unique and enjoyable way to consume cannabis responsibly. It’s essential to consume in moderation and compliance with local laws and regulations. Ultimately, deciding between a blunt and a joint is a matter of individual taste and the experience you seek from your cannabis consumption.
Please note this article is written for general, entertainment and public education purposes only. Although we conducted our research on this topic from sources that are believed to be reliable. We do not claim the information presented here is accurate. The team at Very Jessica Fung is not responsible for injury, loss, or damage, personal or otherwise, that could occur when consuming cannabis and/or drugs. Please review the VJF legal disclosure for more information regarding our content.
