This is a common question that many people have when it comes to shot glasses. The short answer is that standard shot glasses in the United States are typically 1.5 oz. However, shot glass sizes can vary from 1 oz to 2 oz or even larger. Understanding the different shot glass sizes and oz measurements is important for measuring alcoholic drinks properly.
What is the Standard Shot Glass Size?
The most common standard size for a shot glass in the US is 1.5 oz. This means it holds 1.5 fluid ounces of liquid. The 1.5 oz size has become the standard over the years, especially for commercial barware and measuring liquor pours. So if you go to a bar or restaurant in the US and order a “shot”, you can expect to get 1.5 oz of spirit.
Some key things to know about the 1.5 oz standard shot glass size:
- It is equivalent to 3 tablespoons or 44.3 ml.
- A “jigger” (dual measuring shot glass) is usually 1.5 oz on one side.
- Most recipes specify a shot as 1.5 oz.
- Liquor bottles may reference a “standard shot” as 1.5 oz on the label.
While 1.5 oz is very common, shot glasses come in other sizes too. The closest standard sizes are 1 oz and 2 oz.
1 oz Shot Glasses
Some shot glasses are sized at exactly 1 oz or one fluid ounce. These are a bit smaller than the standard 1.5 oz version. Reasons you may see 1 oz shot glasses include:
- Some bars or restaurants may use them for specialty drinks.
- Those monitoring alcohol intake may prefer them.
- They allow for measuring small amounts of liquor.
- Smaller glasses can be appealing in a collection or set.
One ounce is approximately:
- 2 tablespoons
- 29.6 ml
- 1/8 of a cup
So a 1 oz shot glass holds exactly one fluid ounce. This is half the amount of the standard 1.5 oz shot glass.
2 oz Shot Glasses
On the opposite end, some oversized shot glasses hold 2 oz. Reasons for these larger glasses include:
- Double shots of 1 oz liquor.
- Measuring larger quantities of liquor.
- Specialty cocktail recipes specifying 2 oz.
- Souvenir glasses meant more for display.
Two fluid ounces equals:
- 1/4 cup
- 4 tablespoons
- 59 ml
So a 2 oz shot glass holds 1 oz more than the common 1.5 oz size. This allows for pouring larger volumes.
Other Shot Glass Sizes
While 1, 1.5, and 2 ounces are the most popular sizes, shot glasses can also commonly hold:
- 1.25 oz
- 1.75 oz
- 3 oz
The range allows for customization based on preference. However, anything outside the standard 1 – 2 oz range is less common.
Measuring and Pouring with Shot Glasses
Understanding shot glass sizes allows you to measure liquor properly. For example:
- A 1.5 oz shot glass holds a standard shot.
- A 1 oz glass pours less liquor for a lighter drink.
- A 2 oz glass fits more liquor for a strong drink.
When pouring into a shot glass, fill it up to the very top or rim. This ensures you get the full stated volume. Do not eyeball pours or estimate based on looking at the glass.
Be very precise when measuring liquor with shot glasses. Even small differences in amounts can impact flavor and alcohol strength. It is also important for accurately tracking drinks and intake.
Only use measuring shot glasses for their intended purpose. Do not drink directly from them. Pour the measured liquor into a separate drinking glass before consuming.
Cocktail Recipes Specifying Shot Sizes
Many cocktail recipes will specify shot glass sizes for ingredients. For example:
- “Add 1 oz tequila to a cocktail shaker.”
- “Shake with 1.5 oz vodka and 0.5 oz triple sec.”
- “Pour 2 oz bourbon into an old fashioned glass.”
When following recipes, carefully note shot glass types called for:
- Standard shot = 1.5 oz
- Jigger shot = 1 oz
- Double shot = 2 oz
Using the correct oz shot glasses will ensure the drink turns out as intended. Do not substitute different sizes unless you also adjust other ingredients.
How Many Shots in a Liquor Bottle?
| Bottle Size | 1 oz Shots | 1.5 oz Shots | 2 oz Shots |
|---|---|---|---|
| 750 ml | 25.4 | 16.9 | 12.5 |
| 1 liter | 33.8 | 22.5 | 16.7 |
| 1.75 liter | 59.1 | 39.3 | 29.6 |
Knowing shot glass sizes allows you to calculate the number of shots in different liquor bottle sizes. This helps give an idea of how far a bottle can go.
For example, a standard 750 ml bottle contains approximately:
- 16.9 shots at 1.5 oz each
- 25.4 shots at 1 oz each
- 12.5 shots at 2 oz each
Bigger 1 liter and 1.75 liter sizes will have correspondingly more shots.
Shopping for Shot Glasses
When shopping for shot glasses, check for oz markings to verify sizes. Look for:
- Etched or imprinted oz lines
- Etched numbers like 1, 1.5, 2
- Markings inside glasses
- Descriptions listing exact ounces
Standard sets will often come with 1 oz, 1.5 oz, and 2 oz glasses. Specialty sets may have unique oz amounts like 1.25 or 1.75 oz. Examine them closely to understand what you are getting.
If glasses do not have any size markings, you will need to manually measure them to verify amounts. Fill with water at room temperature and pour into a measuring cup to check.
How Shot Sizes Can Vary By Country
While the US typically uses 1, 1.5, and 2 oz shot glasses, sizes can vary in other countries:
- UK – 25 ml and 35 ml are common
- Australia – 30 ml shots
- Japan – 45 ml is standard
- Russia – 50 ml and 100 ml shots
So if you are traveling or importing glasses, be aware the oz amounts may differ. Check for markings to confirm sizes.
The Importance of Precise Measurement
Having tools to precisely measure shots is extremely important when mixing drinks. Small variations in liquor volume can greatly change a cocktail’s profile and alcohol percentage. That’s why specific sized shot glasses are a key bartender tool.
For consistent pours:
- Always fill a shot glass to the brim.
- Use glasses with etched or imprinted volume markings.
- Verify any unmarked glasses with a measuring cup.
With the right practices, shot glasses allow you to perfectly portion cocktails and track alcohol intake responsibly.
Conclusion
While shot glasses typically hold 1, 1.5, or 2 oz of liquor, there are some variations. Standards to remember include:
- A standard US shot is 1.5 oz
- Jiggers and ponies = 1 oz
- Double shots = 2 oz
When using shot glasses for measuring:
- Always fill to the top of the glass.
- Use etched/imprinted oz markings for precision.
- Reference recipes for any called out shot sizes.
Understanding shot glass sizes allows you to precisely portion liquor for cocktails. It helps ensure consistency and proper alcohol amounts. So while there may be some variations, standard glasses are either 1, 1.5, or 2 ounces.