Archive 1

Posted by cheap & chippy chopper on Sunday, 08-Apr-2007

Ah! Thank you, Mike P!

One of my first projects (when my first order, including a hand-held and a TOM, arrives) is to blend up a Lucky clone-only-better for my man. He's a pipe smoker, but used to love the 'toasties.'

You've made it easy. Very much appreciating your info & link4more,

CCC

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Posted by clarence w. walker on Sunday, 08-Apr-2007

When all else fails, you might wish to try toasting your own tobaccos a bit. On a recent blog entry at [link] I discussed how I went about toasting mine. It was WELL worth the effort and provided just the right amount of sweetness with that delicious toasted flavor...BUT...just BARELY toasted and turned often.The toasting causes the residual sugars in the tobacco to become more pronounced while seeming to smooth the tobacco considerably. Be sure your tobacco is not TOO dry before toasting.

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Posted by cheap & chippy chopper on Wednesday, 11-Apr-2007

Good tips! The 'seedman' videos mention brief toasting, as well; but he was using a Virginia style mid leaf, so I didn't make the connection. Thanks!

To resemble Lucks, I tried both straight Two Timer (D&R) and an 80/20 TT/Ramback blend, stuffed in Atheys. Both had the "right idea" but not enough "toast," so I'll try my hand at oomphing it along in the oven. <- I make this sound like fun, lol.

This morning, the fancy tins arrived: Robert McConnell 'Special London;' Charles Fairmorn 'Bright Virginia Shag,' and 'Dark Fired Shag.' WOOF, that Dark is sah-MOKey! Not sure I'll be firing that one up solo. For the blonde in the house though, I'm wondering if a pinch of DFS might accentuate the Luck-ishness of TT/Ramback? Maybe not; I mean, it really smells like last night's woodfire.

Happy quick discovery: Dunhill Menthol International, my brand for 15 years or so: 80% Special London / 20% Wingate (D&R). Clone success (only better, as really fresh always is)! :-)

[ sorry Dave, looks like I've yapped up Brand Clones in the Handhelds section... :-/ ]

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Posted by Clarence Walker on Wednesday, 11-Apr-2007

You might also consider a touch of Cockstrong from D&R. Talk about flavor! BUT, a little goes a LONG way. Great taste and great aroma, but it packs a punch, so us as a spice..after you smoke a short one to truly experience the depth. A bit like smoking a LUCKY STRIKE or Camel unfiltered. Clarence Walker
[link]

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Filterless Tubes Injectors

Posted by cheap & chippy chopper on Thursday, 12-Apr-2007

Clarence, thank you kindly.

Last night, the Chas Fairmorn Dark Fired Shag that I ordered came in... and His Blondeness took one whiff and special-requested a pure DFS in a VC Nocturne, which he absolutely loved. Of course, being a pipe smoker he's not signed on for 24/7, but...

my question (while Dave figures out how to move this thread to the right place, apologies remain Dave) is:

Is DFS of kindred spirit to Cockstrong?

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Re: Brand Compositions: Posted by Clarence Walker on Thursday, 12-Apr-2007
Not surprising that your pipe smoking husband would enjoy the Charles Fairmorn as it is a "halfzware" with considerable flavor. When I began with custom made I was using Bali Shag blue, a fairly hearty halfzware as my base tobacco. Then I obtained each of the Stokkebye halfzwares. Some halfzwares can really open your sinuses! Most are fairly heavily cased and topped in the European style. Now, I like the Bali Shag light as it works with VA, Burley and Turkish to develop a smooth base without being too heavy. You can then modify the base ingredients per the individual's pleasure. That is one reason I love my little 1.25 sized roller, to be better able to experiment moment by moment. A good filter such as a RAYO full size in the roller helps to smooth out the rough edges that a heartier, stout, full bodied blend may deliver while giving the pipe smoker the flavor and aroma they want.
Try a mix of Ryback gold, a 1/4th of the halfzware with a bit of your husband's favorite English blend sprinkled in. You may have to rub the pipe tobacco in your hands a bit.
[link]
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Injector Advice

Posted by AusD on Sunday, 26-Feb-2006

I am pretty new to stuffing my own cigarettes, but I love it, the flavour and creativity.

I use an El Rey handheld injector, and it's a little crappy. It cloggs easily and underfills the cigarette every time. The cigarette feels loose, no-matter how I experiement with filling it (or the machine blocks and I have to remove the ripped tube and clean the tobacco out.

I was wondering what the best tube injectors are (of any type). I use Vera Cruz and Windsail tubes (occasionally Zen lights) and D&R's Ramback Turkish tobacco.

I would be greatful for any advice.

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Re: Injector Advice: Posted by Mary on Monday, 27-Feb-2006
I really like the Top-O-Matic. Works very well and is low maintenance.
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Re: Injector Advice: Posted by Dano on Tuesday, 28-Feb-2006
The blue Premier with the square top is a great hand held injector. That's all I use anymore. It's like $5.
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Re: Injector Advice: Posted by Bob on Tuesday, 28-Feb-2006
The Top-O-Matic is the best injector I have ever used. No maintenance, no cleaning, no tweaking.

I like it so well I have picked up a spare, just in case it does break, and they aren't available anymore. No more Premier for me.
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Posted by Warren on Monday, 18-Jul-2005

Does anyone know which of the smaller injectors work for filterless tubes. I use Premier Suprematic with Excel filterless tubes and that does work Ok. I am looking for a smaller unit (for travel and as a backup) that can fill the filterless tubes properly. The Excel machine I got recently doesn't work (leaves empty 1/2 inch at the nozzle end), a limitation which I found out only after buying the machine and sending it for a repair needlessly (having assumed that it was some adjustment problem).

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Re: Filterless Tubes Injectors: Posted by cheap & chippy chopper on Wednesday, 25-Apr-2007
Warren, fyi I did a bunch of Athey tubes with the Gizeh GTP. They came out great, firm pack and almost perfect. Just had to snip a bit off each end.

Haven't tried the Excel filterless so can't comment there.
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best handheld injector?

Posted by jeff on Friday, 24-Jun-2005

what's your favorite handheld injector?

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Re: best handheld injector?: Posted by chris c. on Saturday, 25-Jun-2005
I like my Top. First on I have bought. It's the blue/yellow design.
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Posted by Kerry on Saturday, 25-Jun-2005

I haven't tried many hand held models, but of the 2 brands I have tried:

I liked the "old" ZigZag models and HATE the new larger ZigZag model. The older model was easier to grip and the new, larger model, is so hard to grip that I won't use it unless I am forced to. Also, the later larger model is prone to not closing properly due to the wide "ledges" next to the tobacco chamber. Even the most efficient person will most likely find it to be a PITA.

The Bugler hand held is OK and similar to the old ZigZag model, but it is harder to grip than the older ZigZag model with its straight design with no flaring at the end for extra finger grip.

As these are the only 2 brands I tried (3 if you count the old and new ZigZag models), I don't know if my experience is even a qualifier... LOL!

One thing that these handheld models have over the Supermatic is that they are MUCH more forgiving when injecting excessively humid or "shake" tobacco.

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Re: best handheld injector?: Posted by Hans on Friday, 21-Jul-2006
I really found the new Zig-Zag design awkward to use. I eventually broke down and got a Premier Supermatic II, which I am pleased with. However, I missed a good hand injector. I just got an Escort Deluxe. I had one years ago but forgot about it. Well, now I find this to be the best hand injector around for me. When the machine is removed from the base, it's very similar to the old zig-zag model. It's comfortable and easy to use. I am actually using it with the base sometimes and it's even easier. This price is right too. It's only $7.50 at American Thrust or $8.95 at D & R. I have to admit that I've been spoiled by my Premier Supermatic II and use that the most, but this comes in handy when I'm not at home.
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Re: best handheld injector?: Posted by Rich on Friday, 01-Jul-2005
I like my original Zig-Zag. I got one made by Gambler at my local Smoke Shop and wouldn't recommend it to anyone. I'll stick with my Excel and keep the handhelds for emergencies.
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Re: best handheld injector?: Posted by G on Saturday, 02-Jul-2005
I use the blue Rizla Deluxe and have good results with it, including with the Rizla Cigarette Size tubes. http://www.ryocigarette.com/rizladelux.html.

I have tried the Excel but prefer the above handheld.
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Re: best handheld injector?: Posted by Smok-Daddy on Monday, 04-Jul-2005
I prefer my old blue handheld Rizla injector to all others.
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Posted by Dano on Wednesday, 01-Feb-2006

I like the old Premier hand held, the one with the square top, not the new one that's kind of rounded on the sides.

When I first got into MYO I picked up a Supermatic II which worked great for a almost a year. It just litterally fell apart. I thought that a big machine was the only way to go, but when it fell apart I was forced to pick up a hand injector.

Four years later i'm still using the same $10 hand injector with noooo problems! I'd never go back to a big machine.

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Posted by Bob on Saturday, 04-Feb-2006

Never go back? I use a Top-O-Matic, I can roll a pack in three minutes. Can you do that with your hand injector?

I've had it for about 4 months now, shows no signs of wear yet, but even if it needs to be replaced once a year, it's more than worth the $35 I paid for it. The time savings is worth 10 times that.

I'm thinking of picking up a couple more, just in case they are not available when I need another.

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Posted by Dano on Monday, 06-Feb-2006

Don't get me wrong. When I first started myo I thought a big machine was the way to go because frankly I thought a little hand injector just wasn't going to cut it. I picked up a Supermatic II and was very happy with it. Unfortunately after about 6 months it became obvious to me that this machine was going down hill, after a year it shook itself apart, spring broke, nuts falling off, all the parts underneath just wore out. I don't know anything about the Top O Matic but I suspect it will wear out pretty much in the same fashion.

So there I was, dead machine and no cigs. I rushed over to the smoke shop and out of desperation picked up a little $5 or $10 Premier hand injector while thinking how fast I could have someone mail order me a new big machine.

It took me about two packs of cigs to realize that this cheapo little hand injector was doing a better job than the expensive big machine. 1 moving part, no cleaning the residue off of the cutter or nib, no stretching your hand over the big machine to hold it in place while you crank it and it makes cigs faster than the big machine simply because you don't have to use one hand to steady the machine while you crank it.

I have nothing against the big machines. I think anyone first getting into MYO should start with a big machine because they work great out of the box and the new comer will see the benefits of MYO, but ultimately they are going to shake themselves apart.

I don't know how long it takes me to roll a pack but it's well under 5 minutes. You keep buying your $35 machines, I spent about $5 dollars years ago for this maintenance free little speed demon and from the looks of things I won't be spending any more money on injectors in this decade.

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Posted by Bob on Tuesday, 07-Feb-2006

I don't think you can compare a Supermatic II to the Top. The Top is all metal. Mine is 4 months old, I have never cleaned it, never had to tweak it, and it operates as good as the day I got it. I find it works a lot better than my Supermatic I.

I started with the premeir hand injector, it would take me at least 15-20 minutes to do a pack after months of practice.

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Posted by Kev on Tuesday, 07-Feb-2006

My first MYO experience 2 years ago was with a hand stuffer and cheap, dry tobacco. Maybe I'll go try my stuffer again since I've learned a few things.

Shortly thereafter, I purchased a Premier which quickly had issues and required frequent cleaning. Never mind that those issues were self-induced by overstuffing, too dry/humid tobacco, etc. I bought another Premier last spring and it hasn't been cleaned. I only stuff about 5 packs of 100mm a week for the wife though. My pride of all things - an Excel that is almost a year old. While it's mostly plastic the only item that has broken is the metal return spring. I don't know why I like smashing tobacco rather than cutting it. But I can stuff faster on an Excel.

There aren't any perfect stuffers. We seem to latch on to one type due to our methods, agility or personality.

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Re: best handheld injector?: Posted by Dano on Wednesday, 08-Feb-2006
I had to laugh, yeah those issues you talk about? I know them well. When I was a newbie I guess you could say I beat the Sh*t out of that Supermatic II :) I'm glad CTC didn't have a check up on owner policy otherwise mine would have been revoked :)

I agree there aren't any perfect stuffers and if people ask me about getting into MYO I tell them to get a big machine to start with. Ultimately though I think smaller is better/faster for the experienced user. Those little Excel's look cool, i've never used one but I wouldn't be adverse to picking one up if I ever needed another injector.

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Re: best handheld injector?: Posted by steveO on Monday, 13-Feb-2006
"There aren't any perfect stuffers. We seem to latch on to one type due to our methods, agility or personality" --- I totally agree.
I started stuffing my own 3mo ago with the Gambler & ZigZag Precision Pro hand injectors. There are pros & cons to using both but have learned the limits of what they can take & both do a pretty good job if used correctly. I would love to give a crank injector a try & own one someday but with no job at the present, I'll stick to hand injecting. My girlfriend just started smoking the gambler brand so now I have to hand stuff for 2. I don't mind since it gives me something to do when I'm bored plus the amount of money saved is a good trade off.
I wish I would have discovered MYO years ago. We've been throwing our money away to big tobacco & the govt for too long.
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Re: best handheld injector?: Posted by Dano on Wednesday, 08-Feb-2006
Actually after I posted the last msg. and said 'it takes me well under 5 minutes a pac' I thought to myself, well how long DOES it actually take? I mean, it seemed to me to be well under five minutes, so I set the timer on the microwave and went about it in my usual way, not trying to break any records, just doing the usual thang. Buy the time I was done, got up and walked back to the micro to check the time, the timer went off. So 'just a hair under 5 minutes' seems to be the case. lol :)

I wasn't trying to compair the Supermatic II with the Top. When I got mine years ago there was no Top. If I ever did get another big machine for sure I would be inclined to go with the Top because I see people like you and others saying good things about it.

I'm not bad mouthing the Supermatic II either. It worked well for me until it died and sold me on MYO. It served it's purpose and was worth the price.
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Top handheld injector question

Posted by Kerry on Sunday, 12-Feb-2006

One thing you said bothered me about your post, but I waited to see if anyone else would post about it.

As no posts were made making the point, here I am doing it.

You said "...makes cigs faster than the big machine simply because you don't have to use one hand to steady the machine while you crank it."

I have used small hand operated injectors, and every single one of them required the use of BOTH hands. Also, unless you have some technique I never discovered, I had to use a tool to pack the chamber tightly to get a good cig. All this took time and much longer than the Supermatic.

Given, the hand held injectors are more forgiving with too moist tobacco. Yet, they are not nearly as consistent in quality of production.

I am not calling you a liar, just that I would have to see what you produce and measure how long it takes you before I would believe you.

Kerry

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Re: best handheld injector?: Posted by Dano on Thursday, 16-Feb-2006
I didn't mean to imply that I used 1 hand with my lil ole hand held injector and I suppose I should have said that stuffing a tube is faster for me using the little machine.

And yes, I use the tamper to pack down the tobacco.

I don't do anything revolutionary. I sit down, put a pile of tubes to my left, a pile of tobacco in front of me and the open case to my right. In goes z tobacco, tamp it once or twice, on goes z tube, pull z machine the filled tube pops off tap it once or twice WaaLaa.. into z case it goes.

My point was that for me, there was an economy of motion in using the little machine. Don't kid yourself, the little machine (in this case my little Premier with the square top) consistently makes cigs at the same quality level as the big machine.

I'm not bad mouthing the big machines, remember I said that I originally used a Supermatic II and was forced to get a lil hand held when it fell apart. I liked the big machine! But after being forced to use the little one I got used to it and soon came to like it much better.

I think a lot of people are scared of the little machines thinking they don't do as good a job. I know that was my concern. But with just a little use I think most would be surprised at how well they do work and without all the cleaning, tightening hassles etc.

I recently received a free Rizla cig sized hand held machine, and I don't like that nearly as much as my Premier. So I suppose there is a case to be made as to which hand held injector is more comfortable to use.

Ultimately it all comes down to what you like, and what you like is what you should use :)

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Posted by jeff on Wednesday, 22-Jun-2005

Hi. I've been using an Excel platinum with Premeire tubes successfully but last week I ran out of tubes so I went to my local CVS and bought a box of Top tubes. They didn't work so well with the Excel. The end of the cigarettes usually were empty so the resulting smokes were smokeable but not satisfying. I figured that maybe there's an incompatibility with Top tubes and the Excel machine so i went back to CVS that night and bought the Top handheld injector for about six dollars.

The problem I'm having with the Top injector is that at the point where you pull the injector back, the tube dislodges from the machine. I've tried this with Premiere tubes and it's the same experience. I've yet to make one cigarette with the Top injector. Has anyone else experienced this problem? Is it likely a defective injector, or a badly designed injector? Any suggestions - TIA.

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Posted by chris c. on Wednesday, 22-Jun-2005

I use the top injector daily, have made about 4 cartons with one. Make sure the tube is all the way against the machine and that you don't overstuff it, that might cause the injector to not grab the tube firmly enough. Hope this helps. For what its worth I couldn't make a decent smoke with the excel. All the tubes that I've tried except for the rizlas come out well. For the rizla tubes I just add more tobacco to the end where the tube goes and it usually works out well.

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Posted by jeff on Thursday, 23-Jun-2005

that's interesting. i find the excel to perform effortlessly with premier king tubes. not so good with top tubes.

no luck whatsoever with the top handheld injector. i even tried doing a "test run" without any tobacco at all and it lost its grip toward the end of the pullback. i'll experiment with less tobacco but i'm sure that i've already done this. i know that there's a little clear plastic grip that presses against the tube and i wonder if maybe it's too short?

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Posted by chris c. on Saturday, 25-Jun-2005

Try holding the injector in your hand. Don't try to use it on the table.
Hold the top of the injector with one hand and the base with the other.

HTH,

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Posted by jeff on Saturday, 25-Jun-2005

Yes, what you describe is exactly what I've been doing, and exactly what the instructions describe. The best results so far is a loosely filled cigarette. I like the design and feel of the machine, I suspect that I may have bought an imperfect one. Thanks for your input.

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Posted by chris c. on Sunday, 26-Jun-2005

Sounds like it's a defect. I even tried putting a empty tube on the injector
and doing a test run. It gripped the tube w/ no problem.
Is your injector missing the plastic/rubber tube holder on the inside of the handle?

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Posted by jeff on Sunday, 26-Jun-2005

It probably is a defect. i stopped by CVS tonight and bought another one and it works fine. Only challenge I see if making cigarettes that are tighter, more tobacco filled. As is, not bad, certainly simple and easy enough to clean.

The first injector did have the gripper but for some reason it didn't grip properly.

Since I bought both injectors at CVS (lost the first receipt) and I'll try and return the first one with the new receipt.

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