Why Use a Weed Grinder?
Many cannabis enthusiasts find weed grinders convenient for transporting dry herb. In addition to grinding buds into a fine powder, the best models are airtight, which means you don't have to worry about oxidization, which can lead to potency loss. Keeping kief away from sunlight also extends its shelf life to two years.
The small size of a weed grinder also makes it easier to carry around. It can fit in a pocket or purse inconspicuously. Airtight models also limit smell, so you don't have to worry about getting weird looks in public.
Herb grinders are also incredibly efficient compared to other pulverization methods, such as mortar and pestle. Even manual grinders require minimal effort to produce a fine powder. Finally, reducing buds to powder releases the oils responsible for the classic cannabis scent and taste. As a result, ground herb tastes and smells more pungent.
What Are the Best Tips for Using a Grinder for Weed?
You don't have to press very hard when using a weed grinder. You should avoid exerting excess force, as it won't grind the bud any finer and may damage the blades. If you aren't getting as fine a powder as you'd like, try turning the grinder upside down before using it. This approach keeps the flower in contact with the blades longer, resulting in a finer powder. If this doesn't work, you may need to clean the device or get a new one.
Speaking of cleaning, a grinder for weed usually accumulates sticky residue. You should regularly remove this residue, as it can gum up blades, rendering them less efficient. Last but not least, pack your weed grinder correctly. Only load the bud around the edge of the grinder in a "donut" shape, as the middle must be accessible for rotation.
Which Grinder Is Best for You?
Power
There are two types of weed grinders: manual and automatic. You have to turn manual grinders by hand, while automatic ones do all the work for you. Understandably, manual models are more affordable. The most basic option is the grinder card, which is a credit card-sized piece of metal with a small grater in the middle.
A weed grinder card is perfect for anyone who prioritizes inconspicuousness. You can store it in a wallet, and most people won't recognize it unless they've seen one before. Its lightweight and slim profile also makes it easy to transport without taking up too much room.
Manual, puck-shaped grinders eliminate a lot of these issues seen in grinder cards, making them extremely popular. You can find simple models for the same price as a grinder card, making them an excellent investment for first-time users.
Automatic weed grinders tend to be the most high-end since they have moving parts. Additionally, you must plug them in or charge them, which means you're out of luck if you can't find an outlet.
Despite this downside, automatic options may appeal to individuals with arthritis or other conditions that impact grip strength. These models grind at a simple button press and provide greater control over powder consistency.
Number of Pieces
A weed grinder has at least two pieces, though we sell models with up to four. Four-part herb grinders include the following pieces:
- Lid
- Grinding chamber
- Pollen screen
- Catching chamber
When you use a two-part model, the powder remains in the grinding chamber. Four- and three-part models have holes in the bottom of the grinding chamber that allow powder to sift through, resulting in a finer and more evenly ground powder.
The difference between a four- and three-part grinder is the pollen screen. A three-part model catches all the powder in a single catching chamber, ready for use. A four-part model has a pollen screen above the catching chamber, which separates the resulting powder into regular cannabis and kief (also called pollen).
Materials
Herb grinders come in a variety of materials:
- Acrylic Grinders
- Glass Grinders
- Metal Grinders
- Plastic Grinders
- Wooden Grinders
Some contain a small glass or clear plastic piece that allows you to check the powder consistency without opening the device.
The most affordable option is acrylic, which is a type of plastic. They're lightweight and easy to clean, making them appealing to casual cannabis users.
Metal grinders are typically higher-end, but also more durable. Metal blades are also more effective, producing a finer powder. Most automatic grinders are predominately metal, contributing to their higher cost.
Aluminum and steel are the most common metals utilized in grinders. Aluminum is lightweight and rust-resistant, making it a good option for anyone who wants an on-the-go weed grinder. However, it's not as durable as steel, putting your device at risk of dents.
Steel is much harder than aluminum, keeping your stash safe in transit. However, it can corrode when exposed to moisture, so it's crucial to keep steel models dry.
Wood grinders have a wooden exterior and metal blades. The use of wood is mainly for aesthetic purposes, and the various species offer different shades and grains:
- Walnut
- Rosewood
- Beech
Some companies sustainably source their materials, making wood grinders a great option for the environmentally minded. They are also incredibly durable and can be heavy depending on the density of the wood.
Size
The final factor to consider when choosing a weed grinder is size. We sell models with diameters between 1.5 and 3 inches, which is standard. Height varies more widely depending on the material and the number of pieces. A two-piece model may only be an inch tall, while a four-piece can measure nearly 7 inches.
Why Choose a Weed Grinder From SMOKEA®?
Whether you need a weed grinder or edibles, SMOKEA® has you covered. We're your one-stop shop for high-quality vapes, accessories, and THC products. Check out our greatest deals to get started.