The Benefits Of Using a Grinder

Before we get into the alternatives, there's a reason grinders are the standard. They offer a quick streamlined way to evenly grind a handful of cannabis flower at once. Many have a mesh filter to sift out extra kief. They can also act as a container for leftover bud, and they are easy to carry on the go.

There are also so many aesthetic options for grinders, it can make them a fun accessory. You can get a lux gold grinder like the Gold Signature Grinder from Sackville and Co. to match gold jewelry. Or you can find colorful grinders that match your cannabis devices, like this Greenstone Grinder from Pax that matches the Greenstone Pax 4.

But there are other options.

Using a Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife to Chop Up Cannabis

One of the simplest ways to break down cannabis is by using a knife and cutting board.

Most knives and boards will do the trick in a pinch but the best fit is a large chef's knife like the French Chef's Knife from Cutco, and a smooth wooden cutting board like this Italian Olivewood Charcuterie Board with Hole from Verve. Simply set your bud on the board, keep your fingers clear from the blade’s path, and use a rocking chopping motion to quickly chop the bud until the pieces are at your desired size. The smooth board will be easier to clean afterwards than other options.

How To Use A Pocket Knife to Breakdown Cannabis

You can make a travel sized set for this knife and board method by using a pocket knife like the Line of Trade x Craighill Limited Edition Rook Knife from Bespoke Post.

Add a small cutting board like the Cherry Small Single Live Edge "Citrus" Wood Cutting Board from Andrew Pearce. Given the small board, it is helpful to have something below the board to catch loose flower, like a paper plate or rolling tray.

Chopping Cannabis Using an Ulu Board and Ulu Knife

Another excellent substitute for a grinder is an Ulu Board and Ulu Knife. The curved board forms a cup that helps keep the buds from spilling over. The curved blade and easy to grab handle can be gripped by both hands for quick and powerful chopping.

The Acacia Ulu Board & Stand by Macellin and Ulu Knife by Dedfish would make a beautiful set to keep as part of your rolling kit.

Grinding Cannabis With A Mortar and Pestle

Cannabis can also be ground using a mortar and pestle. This ancient device for grinding herbs is a great option for quickly breaking down cannabis. Just put your cannabis in the mortar (the sturdy bowl) and use the pestle to grind it. This is a great method if you want your cannabis to be finely ground for vaping or cooking. If you’re smoking the flower, be careful not to break it down too far. You can crush your cannabis into a powder if you go too hard.

The Kitchen Wiz Cut & Prep Board from Uncommon Goods has mortar and pestle, embedded in a cutting board. This is a great choice for one piece that can offer two different ways to break down cannabis, knife and cutting board for a coarse grind, or mortar and pestle for a fine grind.

Using a Cheese Grater to Grind Cannabis

Another possibility is using a cheese grater to grind your cannabis. Smaller grates work better, like this Italian Olivewood Parmesan Cheese Grater from Verve. This grater also comes with an Olivewood box that will catch the ground cannabis flower as it is grated. Just be careful of your fingers, which should not go near the shape grates. Place the bud on the grater and use a wooden spatula or spoon to push the flower though the grates.

How to Break Down Cannabis With Scissors and a Cup

Finally, you could use scissors to break down your cannabis. This method is best for when you prefer a more coarse grain consistency of flower. The Crane Manual-Grind Bud Snipping Set: Cup + Scissors from Rogue Paq is a beautiful set designed for this mindful process. Hold the bud or let it rest in the cup as you delicately and intentionally trim it into pieces.