Which RAW Product Should You Start With (Papers Cones Wraps)

If you are new to rolling or looking to switch to RAW products, choosing where to begin can seem confusing. With so many types available, from traditional papers to pre rolled cones and hemp wraps, each option offers a different kind of smoking experience. This article breaks down the differences between them, who they suit best, and how to decide which is right for you. It is written for UK smokers and herbal users who want a clean, natural rolling experience that reflects RAW’s philosophy of minimal processing and authentic taste.

Understanding the RAW Range

RAW offers three main types of products: rolling papers, pre rolled cones, and wraps. Each one is designed for a different kind of user and lifestyle. Rolling papers give you full control over the rolling process, cones offer convenience with minimal effort, and wraps provide a thicker material for longer, slower sessions. The beauty of the RAW range is that you can choose based on your skill level, time, and preference without compromising on quality.

Rolling papers are the original RAW product and remain the most versatile option. They come in a range of thicknesses and materials, from RAW Classic to RAW Organic Hemp and RAW Black. Pre rolled cones are made from the same unbleached paper but are shaped and ready to fill, ideal for those who prefer ease over precision. Wraps, usually made from natural hemp or other plant fibres, are thicker and designed for those who enjoy a more substantial roll and a longer session.

RAW Rolling Papers

RAW rolling papers are ideal for smokers who enjoy the hands on ritual of rolling. They provide the opportunity to control how tightly you roll, how much tobacco or herb you use, and the size of your smoke. The RAW Classic line is the most popular starting point, made from unrefined plant fibres that deliver a clean, even burn. The papers are naturally brown because they are unbleached and free from whitening chemicals.

RAW Organic Hemp papers are another excellent choice for those who want a slower burn and a slightly softer texture. Made entirely from organic hemp fibres, these papers are more environmentally friendly and are considered smoother on the throat. For more experienced rollers who prefer minimal paper flavour, RAW Black papers are ultra thin and nearly transparent, allowing the natural taste of the contents to dominate.

Rolling papers suit smokers who value precision and customisation. They are also the most economical choice, as a single booklet provides dozens of sheets at a lower cost than cones or wraps. However, beginners may find rolling tricky at first. The thinness of RAW papers, especially the Black variety, requires practice to master.

Pre Rolled Cones

RAW pre rolled cones are the most convenient option for those who want to enjoy the RAW experience without learning to roll. Each cone comes pre shaped with a built in tip, so all you need to do is fill, pack, and twist the end before lighting. This simplicity makes cones a favourite for beginners and anyone who values speed and consistency.

The cones are made from the same unrefined paper used in RAW’s rolling sheets, ensuring the same clean burn and natural flavour. They come in several sizes, from single cones for solo sessions to king size or larger options for sharing. Many smokers also use cones when on the go, as they eliminate the need for a flat surface or rolling tools.

Pre rolled cones are slightly more expensive per piece than loose papers, as you are paying for the convenience of the pre formed shape. However, they remove the frustration of uneven rolls and are ideal for users with limited dexterity. For UK smokers who want a straightforward, reliable smoke, RAW cones offer a balanced introduction to the brand.

RAW Wraps

For those who prefer a thicker roll with a longer burn time, RAW wraps are an excellent option. Unlike papers and cones, wraps are usually made from hemp or other natural plant fibres and resemble the texture of a blunt wrap. They are designed for users who want a more substantial smoking experience, often with a richer draw and a slower burn.

RAW wraps do not contain tobacco, which differentiates them from traditional blunt wraps. They are also free from artificial flavours, additives, and preservatives. This makes them a suitable choice for smokers who want the feel of a blunt without the extra chemicals found in conventional tobacco based wraps.

Because wraps are thicker, they require a bit more material to fill and more skill to roll tightly. They are best suited to users who already have some experience and want to experiment with larger rolls. Wraps burn longer, making them ideal for social settings or relaxed sessions.

Choosing the Right RAW Product for You

Choosing your first RAW product depends on your skill level, lifestyle, and what you value most in your smoking experience. If you enjoy craftsmanship and control, start with RAW rolling papers. If you prefer speed and convenience, choose pre rolled cones. If you like large, slow burning sessions, wraps are your best fit.

For those who want to learn rolling from scratch, RAW Classic or RAW Organic Hemp papers in a 1¼ size are the best entry point. This size provides enough paper to work with while remaining manageable for beginners. After practising and gaining confidence, you can explore thinner or larger papers such as RAW Black or King Size Slim.

If you do not want to roll manually, cones are the easiest introduction. They are ready to use out of the packet and provide consistent results with minimal effort. You simply fill them with your chosen blend and gently pack it down to achieve an even burn. For users who smoke socially or prefer larger sessions, wraps offer the slowest burn and the most robust texture, but they do require a little experience to handle properly.

Flavour and Burn Characteristics

Each RAW product provides a slightly different burn profile and flavour experience. RAW Classic papers have a balanced burn speed and a mild paper flavour, making them suitable for everyday use. RAW Organic Hemp burns a little slower and produces a lighter taste, ideal for those who prefer a smoother draw. RAW Black is almost flavourless, designed for users who want the purest possible taste of their blend.

Pre rolled cones provide the same flavour experience as their corresponding paper type but tend to burn slightly slower due to their cone shape. The wider base allows for an even distribution of material, which promotes consistent airflow. RAW wraps, on the other hand, offer the longest burn and a richer, warmer draw. They also hold more material, which enhances the overall depth of flavour.

Cost and Availability

RAW products are widely available throughout the UK, from local tobacconists to online retailers. Rolling papers are the most affordable, with a single booklet costing less than a pack of cones. Cones and wraps cost more per unit but save time and effort. For most users, the slight price difference is worth the convenience.

It is important to buy genuine RAW products, as counterfeit versions occasionally appear online. Authentic RAW products are packaged with clear branding, a textured finish, and watermarked paper. Always buy from reputable UK stockists to ensure quality and authenticity.

Environmental Impact

RAW has built its brand around environmental sustainability. The company claims to use renewable plant fibres, water based gum, and wind powered production facilities. The unbleached paper and recycled packaging reduce the ecological footprint compared with conventional rolling products. Hemp papers, in particular, are considered a sustainable option because hemp is fast growing and requires fewer resources than trees.

For environmentally conscious smokers, RAW offers reassurance that their products are made with care for the planet. While smoking itself cannot be considered sustainable due to waste and combustion, choosing cleaner materials and eco friendly brands can make a small but meaningful difference.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When using RAW papers for the first time, beginners often roll too tightly, which restricts airflow and leads to uneven burning. The key is to maintain even pressure and leave just enough room for air to circulate. With cones, avoid over packing, as this can cause the material to burn unevenly or extinguish early. When using wraps, ensure the material is ground evenly and packed gradually to maintain structure.

It is also important to store papers and wraps in a cool, dry place. Humidity can weaken the gum line and make the paper more fragile. If your papers become damp, let them dry naturally before use rather than exposing them to heat.

Final Thoughts

Choosing your first RAW product comes down to what kind of smoker you are. If you take pride in crafting each roll, start with RAW rolling papers and master the skill. If you value ease and consistency, pre rolled cones provide the perfect balance of quality and simplicity. If you prefer long, relaxed sessions with friends, RAW wraps deliver a smooth, slow burning experience that lasts.

Whichever you choose, you are getting the same RAW quality: natural, unrefined materials that showcase your tobacco or herbal blend without the interference of artificial additives. The brand’s commitment to sustainability, flavour purity, and craftsmanship has made it one of the most respected names in rolling. For UK smokers and enthusiasts seeking a more authentic and natural approach, RAW offers a product for every style, preference, and experience level.