Gathering the Necessary Materials
Rolling a fat backwood requires a few essential materials to ensure a smooth and successful process.
1. High-Quality Backwoods:
The foundation of a great backwood roll lies in the choice of high-quality backwoods. Look for fresh, non-crushed leaves that are pliable and free from holes or tears. Select larger leaves for a fatter roll.
- Shape: Choose leaves that are rectangular or oval in shape for easier rolling
- Texture: Opt for leaves with a smooth texture and avoid those with rough edges or ridges
- Moisture: Slightly moist leaves are ideal for rolling, as dry leaves tend to crack and crumble
Table: Recommended Backwoods Brands for Rolling
| Brand | Leaf Quality | Size |
|---|---|---|
| Dutch Masters | Soft, flexible leaves | Medium to large |
| Phillies Blunts | Silky smooth texture | Large and wide |
| White Owls | Mild flavor, pliable leaves | Medium-sized |
| Game Silver | Thin and delicate leaves | Large, ideal for extra fat rolls |
Preparing the Backwood
Step 1: Choose a Fresh Backwood
Select a fresh, pliable Backwood leaf. Avoid leaves that are brittle or have tears. The freshness of the leaf will affect the smoothness and quality of the roll.
Step 2: Remove the Stem and Ribs
Carefully remove the thick stem and any tough ribs from the leaf. Use a sharp knife or scissors to make a clean cut. Removing the stem and ribs will create a more even surface for rolling and improve the draw.
Detailed Instructions for Removing the Stem and Ribs:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Hold the Backwood leaf with one hand and use your other hand to locate the stem. |
| 2 | Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the stem away from the leaf. Make sure to cut close to the leaf without tearing it. |
| 3 | Once the stem is removed, use your fingers to gently separate the ribs from the leaf. |
| 4 | Continue removing the ribs until the leaf is smooth and pliable. |
Lighting the Backwood
Once your Backwood is rolled and sealed, it’s time to light it up. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensuring an even and flavorful burn:
1. **Prepare the tip:** Flatten the tip of the Backwood by gently squeezing it between your fingers. This will create a small cone-shaped opening.
2. **Apply a flame:** Use a lighter or match to hold a flame directly under the tip of the Backwood, about half an inch from the wrapper.
3. **Rotate the Backwood:** While holding the flame in place, slowly rotate the Backwood clockwise or counterclockwise. This will distribute the heat evenly and prevent the wrapper from burning too quickly.
4. **Extinguish the flame:** Once the entire tip is glowing, extinguish the flame by gently blowing on it.
5. **Draw gently:** Take a gentle draw on the Backwood to ensure the burn is stable and there are no harsh embers.
6. **Relight if necessary:** If the Backwood goes out or burns unevenly, simply relight the tip following the same steps as above. However, be cautious not to overlight the Backwood, as this can burn through the wrapper or create a harsh taste.
| Burn Pattern | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Uneven burn with dark spots | Overlighting or not rotating the Backwood | Relight and rotate the Backwood more evenly |
| Canoeing (burning too fast on one side) | Loosely packed or uneven rolling | Roll the Backwood more tightly and evenly |
| Burning too slowly | Too tightly packed | Loosen the Backwood slightly by gently squeezing it |
Taking the First Hit
Now that your backwood is rolled, it’s time to light it up and take a hit. Start by holding the backwood between your thumb and forefinger, with the lit end pointing slightly upward. Inhale slowly and steadily through the mouthpiece, taking care not to inhale too hard. The smoke will fill your lungs and give you a smooth, relaxing high.
Here are some tips for taking the perfect backwood hit:
- Take slow, steady breaths. Inhaling too hard will cause the backwood to burn too quickly and unevenly.
- Hold the backwood at a slight angle. This will help to prevent the ash from falling into your mouth.
- Don’t hold the backwood too close to your face. The heat from the flame can burn your lips and tongue.
- Inhale through the mouthpiece. This will help to filter out the tar and other impurities in the smoke.
- Exhale slowly and gently. This will help to prevent the backwood from canoeing (burning unevenly).
Once you’ve taken your first hit, you can relax and enjoy the high. Backwoods can provide a smooth, relaxing experience that can last for hours. So sit back, put your feet up, and enjoy the ride.
Maintaining the Backwood
Once your Backwood is rolled, there are a few things you can do to maintain its freshness and flavor:
1. Store in an airtight container
This will help to keep the Backwood from drying out and losing its flavor.
2. Keep in a cool, dark place
Heat and light can damage the Backwood, so it is best to store it in a cool, dark place.
3. Roll it loosely
This will help to prevent the Backwood from breaking or tearing.
4. Keep it away from water
Water can damage the Backwood, so it is important to keep it away from moisture.
5. Use a humidity pack
If you live in a dry climate, you can use a humidity pack to help keep the Backwood moist.
6. Avoid using a grinder
Grinding the Backwood will damage it and make it more difficult to roll.
7. Use a rolling machine
A rolling machine can help to make the rolling process easier and more consistent.
8. Experiment with different strains
| Strain | Effects |
|---|---|
| Blue Dream | Relaxing, Euphoric |
| Sour Diesel | Energetic, Cerebral |
| Purple Kush | Sleepy, Pain-relieving |
Finishing the Backwood
9. **Execute the Roll:**
With care, roll the paper into a cylinder shape, commencing with the adhesive edge. Gently press and smooth out its surface as you rotate it. Maintain an even hand and avoid applying excessive force, which could lead to tears or creases.
-
Check for Smoothness:
Once the paper is rolled, inspect it for smoothness and consistency. Any wrinkles or irregularities can hinder the rolling process and affect the overall quality of the backwood.
-
Seal the Adhesive:
When satisfied with the smoothness, moisten the adhesive strip thoroughly and firmly press it down to seal the paper into a secure cylinder. Use a damp finger or a wet q-tip for a precise application.
-
Shape the Ends:
To enhance the aesthetic appeal and provide a better grip, gently shape the ends of the backwood by rolling them slightly inward. This creates a flared shape that adds a professional touch and prevents the ends from fraying.
Proper Backwood Etiquette
Respecting the sanctity of the Backwood ritual is paramount. Here’s a comprehensive guide to proper Backwood etiquette:
1. Always Respect the Backwood
Treat the Backwood with reverence. It’s not just a cigar, it’s a symbol of fellowship and a vessel for relaxation.
2. Don’t Hog the Backwood
Pass the Backwood around, allowing everyone to savor the experience. Don’t dominate the smoking session or inhale excessively.
3. Roll with Precision
Take time to roll a perfect Backwood, ensuring it burns evenly and smoothly. Don’t rush or compromise on quality.
4. Don’t Ask for a Hit
Patience is key. Wait to be offered a hit rather than demanding one. Interruptions can disrupt the flow of the session.
5. Inhale Respectfully
Inhale gently and savor the flavor and aroma. Avoid taking large or harsh hits that can overpower your senses.
6. Extinguish the Backwood Properly
When finished, extinguish the Backwood safely and respectfully. Avoid flicking it away or leaving it burning unattended.
7. Share the Experience
Backwood smoking is a social experience. Invite friends and engage in meaningful conversations while enjoying the Backwood together.
8. Respect the Environment
Dispose of Backwood ashes and packaging properly. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid littering.
9. Clean Up After Yourself
Respect the location of your Backwood session. Clean up any mess and leave the area as you found it.
10. Additional Etiquette Tips
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a cigar cutter | Precisely cut the Backwood to ensure an even burn and draw. |
| Pack the Backwood tightly | Eliminate air pockets and promote an even burn. |
| Don’t over-lick the Backwood | Excessive moisture can weaken the wrap and make it difficult to roll. |
| Use a poker | Maintain the Backwood’s airflow by gently pushing a poker through the ash occasionally. |
| Offer a “healing hit” | If someone coughs or struggles with the Backwood, offer them a milder hit to help them recover. |
