How Many Shots Is 2 Ounces of Bourbon?

October 31, 2025 •

3 min read

In the United States, a standard shot is defined as 1.5 fluid ounces. Based on this measurement, 2 ounces of bourbon is equivalent to 1 and 1/3 standard shots. However, various factors can influence this, including the bar's specific pour size or whether you are measuring for a mixed drink or a neat pour.

Quick Summary

Based on the U.S. standard of a 1.5-ounce shot, 2 ounces of bourbon equals 1.33 shots. This guide details standard and alternative pour sizes, explaining why this measurement can vary between establishments and depending on the drink type.

Key Points

1.33 standard shots: In the U.S., where a standard shot is 1.5 ounces, 2 ounces of bourbon is equal to 1.33 shots.
One neat pour: When ordered neat or on the rocks, a 2-ounce pour is often considered a single serving, not a shot.
Use a jigger for accuracy: To measure precisely, use a double jigger with a 2-ounce side or measuring spoons (four tablespoons).
Shot size is not universal: The measurement of a 'shot' can vary by bar, state, and country, so relying on a standard can be misleading.
A 'double shot' is 3 ounces: Most bars consider a double shot to be 3 ounces, making 2 ounces less than a full double.

Standard Versus Alternative Shot Sizes

Understanding shot measurements is crucial for both bartenders and home mixologists. While the 1.5-ounce pour is widely recognized as the standard in the United States, it is by no means the only measure used. Many high-end bars or those with a focus on specific craft cocktails may opt for a different standard. Additionally, other factors can change the typical pour size, such as the preference for a 'neat' pour or a 'rocks' pour, which are often larger than a standard shot.

The 1.5-Ounce Standard

The 1.5-ounce, or 44-milliliter, standard pour is the most common in the U.S., forming the basis for many cocktail recipes.

Easy Calculation: This size makes it simple to mentally calculate how much liquor you are consuming or how many shots are in a bottle.
Consistency: Bartenders use this standard to ensure every cocktail is consistent, which also helps control pour costs.
CDC Guidance: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) uses this 1.5-ounce measure of 80-proof liquor to define one 'standard drink'.

Pouring for Neat and Rocks

When a customer orders bourbon 'neat' (straight up) or 'on the rocks' (with ice), they are typically served a larger pour, usually 2 ounces. This is because the liquor is the star of the show, not hidden behind mixers, and is meant to be savored rather than consumed quickly.

How to Measure 2 Ounces of Bourbon

For home bartenders, precision is key to replicating cocktail recipes accurately. Luckily, there are a variety of tools to help you measure exactly 2 ounces.

List of tools for measuring:

Jigger: The most common tool, featuring different measuring capacities on each side. A standard double jigger will have a 2-ounce side, perfect for your needs.
Measuring spoons: If a jigger isn't available, remember that 1 tablespoon equals 0.5 ounces. Therefore, four tablespoons will give you precisely 2 ounces.
Measuring cup: A kitchen measuring cup marked with fluid ounces is another straightforward option for accurate pours.
Speed pourers: For a practiced free-pour, bartenders use measured counts. The count can vary, but a consistent tempo can help you measure out 2 ounces reliably.

Bourbon Measurement Breakdown: Shots vs. Neat Pours

When comparing different serving styles, the number of 'shots' in a 2-ounce pour changes based on the definition used. The table below outlines how 2 ounces of bourbon is interpreted across different pour sizes.


Pour Type	Size (oz)	2 oz Bourbon Equivalent	Context
Standard U.S. Shot	1.5	1.33 shots	Most common bar and cocktail recipe standard
Neat/Rocks Pour	2	1 pour	Standard for sipping whiskey or spirits straight
Pony Shot	1	2 shots	A smaller shot, sometimes used for lighter spirits or cocktails
Double Shot (common)	3	0.67 double shots	Twice the standard U.S. pour, but can vary

Why Shot Size Is Not Always Standardized

It is important to remember that 'shot' is not a universally standardized unit of measurement. While the 1.5-ounce definition is the most common in the US, some states, like Utah, have legally defined it, while others leave it up to the establishment. This flexibility allows bars to adjust their portions based on price point, clientele, and the type of spirit. Upscale bars serving expensive, high-end bourbon might use a different pour size than a dive bar focusing on volume. For consistent results, especially when making cocktails, it is always best to use a measuring tool like a jigger to ensure accuracy.

Conclusion

To determine how many shots are in 2 ounces of bourbon, you must first define what a 'shot' is. Assuming the most widely accepted US standard of 1.5 ounces, 2 ounces of bourbon provides exactly 1 and 1/3 standard shots. However, a 2-ounce pour is also the standard size for a neat or rocks serving, making it a single pour in that context. Using a jigger is the most reliable method for precise measurement, ensuring consistent drinks whether at home or in a professional setting.

For more advanced bartending techniques and recipe guidance, consider a resource like Difford's Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, a standard drink in the US contains 0.6 ounces of pure alcohol, which equates to 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor. At 2 ounces, your drink would be 1.33 standard drinks and contain more alcohol.

You can measure 2 ounces by using standard kitchen measuring tools. Since 1 tablespoon is 0.5 ounces, you can use four tablespoons to achieve the correct amount. Alternatively, a measuring cup with ounce markers will work perfectly.

A 'shot' is typically 1.5 ounces and intended for quick consumption. A 'neat pour' is often a larger, 2-ounce serving meant for savoring and sipping slowly.

Assuming a standard 3-ounce double shot in the U.S., 2 ounces of bourbon is only two-thirds of a double shot.

Some corporate or high-volume establishments may pour smaller shots (e.g., 1.25 ounces) to control pour costs and maximize profits. In contrast, some high-end bars might pour larger 2-ounce shots for premium spirits to satisfy their clientele.

An 'on the rocks' order means a 2-ounce pour of bourbon is served over ice in a lowball glass. This larger portion size is meant for a sippable drink.

Two fluid ounces is equivalent to approximately 59.147 milliliters. This is a useful conversion when following international cocktail recipes.