the device for feeding cigarettes , or the like , is particularly adapted for use in a machine for filling the trays intended for supplying a cigarette - packing machine . the device comprises at least one upstanding or inclined cigarette - guiding channel , which at both sides is delimited by at least one small belt , and along which the cigarettes coming , for example , from an overlying cigarette mass contained in a cigarette - feeding hopper descend in a horizontal disposition , and as a mass flow . the sides of the lower mouth of the cigarette - guiding channel are bound by two endless conveyor members consisting of rollers , or preferably of small belts , set in a facing and reciprocally shiftable relation , and which are drawn apart by the thrust of the cigarettes and are moved into a position for opening the lower mouth of the cigarette - guiding channel , these endless conveyor members being again moved by the action of suitable returning forces into a channel - mouth closing position , as soon as the said thrust ceases or decreases .