How to Press Hash?

2009.05.11

After being collected, trichome resin (hashish powder) is usually pressed into solid mass called hashish. Hashish that has been rubbed by hand from live plants does not have to be pressed unless it will be stored for a long period.

Collecting hashish powder via methods other than rubbing will require pressing. Powder that has been sieved, collected with a pollenator, or with water will need to be pressed.

Pressing alters the chemistry and taste of the powder in a positive way, it also helps the burning characteristics (makes the produced hashish burn more evenly when smoked).

When done properly, it also makes the powder easier to transport (if dealing with large quantities) and allows the hashish to be stored for long periods (several years if stored in a dark, cold, airtight environment).

Among other things, pressing ruptures the resin glands and warms the resin. This enhances the distinctive taste of quality hashish. If you've gone through the trouble of collecting hashish powder, you should press it.

Some hashish powder can be pressed as is, but a small amount of alcohol (high percentage alcohol works best but you can use vodka) can be added to help powder stick together better.

When working with small quantities of powder, only add a few drops (use an eyedropper) of alcohol to help the powder stick together. Lower quality powders have to be heated (not recommended) in order to stick together.

It is not recommended, but the cheapest way to press hashish powder is to put a small amount (1-2 grams) in the palm of your hand and press it together with the fingers and/or thumb of your other hand. Keep doing this for about 30 minutes.

If the powder doesn't seem to be sticking together at all after about 5 minutes, add a few drops of alcohol (just a few drops of high percentage alcohol or vodka).

Another inexpensive method of pressing is placing the powder in your shoe and applying pressure by walking. Place about 3-4 grams of powder in a plastic or cellophane wrapper. Seal the wrapper with a bit of tape (if necessary) to prevent any spills.

After an hour of walking (or until walking is too uncomfortable) check and see if the powder is sticking together. If it is, you can keep it in your show for another hour or more. If the powder isn't sticking together, add a few drops of alcohol and continue walking on it.

For a better quality product or if pressing large amounts, a mechanical device is recommended. A mechanical device will allow you to press the powder for a longer time under more pressure.

You can leave the powder in a mechanical press for as little as about 8 hours (overnight) if you are in a rush. But for better results, a week or two will improve the finished product. It will also last longer (when pressed for a longer amount of time).

A small pollen press will handle up to about 4 grams of hashish at a time. They are fairly cheap (under $50) and do a very good job of pressing small quantities of powder. When working with large amounts of hashish powder, a larger machine is needed. If you have access to a hydraulic press (a hydraulic jack works well) you can use it to press a large quantity of powder under extreme pressure.

The amount of pressure required is dependant on the quantity and quality of powder. Larger amounts need more pressure to be applied. Lower quality powder will require a larger amount of pressure to be used, in order to be effective.

Start by placing the powder in some plastic or cellophane. Seal the bag and poke several small pin holes in the bag to allow trapped air to escape. Place the bag into a heavy-duty steel mold and apply pressure via the hydraulic press.

Hydraulic jacks allow varying the pressure. Start at lower pressures and work your way up. Hashish can be pressed with 10-20 tons of pressure if necessary.

If you have enough hash powder (100 grams or more is recommended) to consider using a commercial press, you can rent one for a reasonable price at most local tool rental stores.