The phrase "how many units is a cool shot?" is inherently ambiguous because it can refer to one of two completely different products: an alcoholic vodka miniature or a mentholated nicotine booster for vapes. The unit measurement varies drastically depending on the product, which is why clarification is essential.
Alcohol Units in a Cool Shot Vodka Miniature
For the alcoholic beverage, a Cool Shot is a flavoured vodka shot typically sold in a 20ml miniature bottle. The alcohol units are calculated based on the volume (in milliliters) and the alcohol by volume (ABV) percentage. The formula for calculating alcohol units is: (Volume in ml * ABV %) / 1000 = Units. A common Cool Shot vodka is 15% ABV.
To calculate the units:
- (20ml * 15%) / 1000 = 0.3 UK units of alcohol.
- It is important to note that different flavours or packs may have slightly different ABVs, and for responsible consumption, it's always best to check the bottle's label. Websites like Drinkaware provide authoritative guidance on alcohol units.
Nicotine Units in a Cool Shot Vape Booster
In the vaping world, a 'cool shot' is a nicotine booster shot used to add a cooling menthol effect and nicotine to a larger bottle of flavourless e-liquid, known as a 'shortfill'. These shots typically come in 10ml bottles with an 18mg/ml nicotine strength. The 'unit' in this context is the nicotine concentration, measured in milligrams per milliliter (mg/ml).
How to Calculate Your Final Nicotine Strength
- Step 1: Prepare your supplies. You will need a nicotine-free shortfill e-liquid, the correct number of cool shots, and a clean workspace to avoid spills.
- Step 2: Add the shot. Open the shortfill bottle and pour the entire contents of the 10ml cool shot into it.
- Step 3: Shake well. Replace the cap and shake the bottle vigorously for at least 60 seconds to ensure the nicotine is evenly distributed.
- Step 4: Steep (optional). For the best flavour, some vapers recommend letting the mixture steep for a period of time.
The resulting nicotine strength depends on the shortfill size. For example, adding one 10ml, 18mg cool shot to a 50ml shortfill creates 60ml of 3mg e-liquid. If you add two cool shots to a 100ml shortfill, you will get 120ml of 3mg e-liquid. Always check the packaging for precise mixing instructions.
Comparison Table: Cool Shot (Vodka) vs. Cool Shot (Vape)
| Feature | Cool Shot (Vodka) | Cool Shot (Vape) |
|---|---|---|
| Product Type | Flavoured vodka miniature | Nicotine booster shot |
| Container Size | 20ml | 10ml |
| Primary Unit Measure | UK Alcohol Units | Nicotine Concentration (mg/ml) |
| Typical Strength | 15% ABV | 18mg/ml |
| Unit Count | 0.3 units per 20ml bottle | 18mg per 10ml shot |
| Usage | Drunk directly as a shot or mixed | Mixed into larger zero-nicotine e-liquids |
| Effect | Alcoholic effect | Nicotine and cooling sensation |
Conclusion
To answer the question, "how many units is a cool shot?" you must first determine which product is being discussed. For the alcoholic vodka miniature, a standard 20ml bottle contains 0.3 units. For the vaping product, an 18mg, 10ml nicotine booster is the standard, and this is mixed to achieve a desired final nicotine strength. Always verify the specific product and check its label to confirm the unit measurement and ensure safe and responsible consumption or use.
For more information on alcohol units, visit the Drinkaware website: https://www.drinkaware.co.uk.
