Is a Shot 1oz or 2? Understanding Standard Pour Sizes

November 14, 2025 •

3 min read

Globally, the size of a standard shot of liquor varies dramatically, ranging from as little as 0.68 ounces in Germany to over 2 ounces in Japan. This means that while a 1.5-ounce pour is considered standard in the United States, there is no universal answer to whether a shot is 1oz or 2. The correct measurement depends heavily on your location and the establishment you are in.

Quick Summary

The size of a shot is not universal. In the US, the standard is 1.5 ounces, but this measurement can differ by state and even by individual bar practices. Internationally, shot sizes vary even more, with some countries measuring in milliliters. Measuring tools like a jigger provide accuracy, which is crucial for balanced cocktails and responsible drinking.

Key Points

US Standard is 1.5 oz: In the United States, a single shot is generally considered to be 1.5 fluid ounces, or about 44 milliliters.
Sizes Vary by Location: The volume of a shot can differ significantly around the world and even between bars in the same country due to varying laws and practices.
Jiggers Provide Accuracy: For precise measurements in cocktails, a jigger—a specialized bar tool—is far more accurate than using a standard shot glass.
A Double is Not Always Double: While a double shot in the US is often 2 ounces, this is not always twice the standard 1.5-ounce pour.
Responsible Drinking Awareness: Understanding shot size variations is crucial for both bartenders and consumers to accurately monitor alcohol consumption.
International Examples Exist: Standard shots range from smaller sizes in the UK (25 ml) and Germany (20 ml) to larger ones in Japan (60 ml).
History Influences Standards: The 1.5-ounce standard in the US dates back to regulations introduced in the 1960s, while international standards are based on different historical practices.

The American Standard vs. Bar Practices

In the United States, the most widely accepted standard for a single shot of liquor is 1.5 fluid ounces, or about 44 milliliters. This is a crucial reference point for both bartenders and consumers. However, this is not a federally mandated rule, and some variation exists. For example, some corporate-owned bars might pour 1.25-ounce shots to increase profit margins, while other high-end establishments might serve a larger, 2-ounce pour. Utah is one of the few states to legally define a shot at 1.5 ounces.

The perception of a shot's size can also be influenced by the type of glass used. A "cheater glass" might look like a standard shot glass but has a thick base that makes the liquid level seem higher, masking a smaller pour. Knowing the difference is important for both accurate cocktail making and keeping track of your alcohol consumption.

International Shot Sizes: A Global Tour

Travelers often experience firsthand how drastically shot sizes can change from one country to another. Cultural traditions, historical context, and local laws all influence these measurements. For instance, the UK introduced the "pub measure" in 1985 to standardize a single shot at 25 milliliters (about 0.85 ounces), with a double at 50 milliliters. This contrasts sharply with countries like Japan and Israel, where a shot can be up to 60 milliliters (over 2 ounces).

Shot sizes by country

United States: 1.5 oz (approx. 44 ml)
United Kingdom: 0.85 oz / 25 ml (single)
Australia: 1 oz / 30 ml (single)
Germany: 0.68 oz / 20 ml (single)
Japan: ~2 oz / 60 ml
Canada: 1.5 oz / 44 ml

The Role of Jiggers in Precision

For those who prioritize accuracy in their drinks, whether at a professional bar or at home, a jigger is the indispensable tool. A jigger is an hourglass-shaped measuring device with different volumes on each end. A standard US jigger typically measures 1.5 ounces on one side and 1 ounce on the other, while Japanese-style jiggers often feature 2 ounces on one side and 1 ounce on the other.

Jigger vs. Shot Glass: A Comparison


Feature	Jigger	Shot Glass
Primary Use	Measuring liquid for cocktails.	Serving a straight shot of liquor.
Accuracy	High. Marked with specific, precise volumes.	Variable. Often used for drinking and less precise for measurement.
Standard Capacity	Typically dual-sided (e.g., 1.5 oz and 1 oz).	Can hold a standard 1.5 oz pour, but overall capacity can vary widely.
Shape	Hourglass or bell shape for easy pouring.	Varies from classic tapered base to tall shooter styles.
Material	Usually stainless steel for durability.	Glass.

Using a jigger ensures consistency and balance in cocktails, preventing over-pouring and ensuring the intended flavor profile is achieved every time. While a shot glass can be used for rough measurements in a pinch, a jigger is the tool of choice for professional results.

What a 'Double Shot' Means

Ordering a "double shot" can also lead to different results depending on the bar. While it might seem intuitive that a double is simply two standard shots, this isn't always the case. In the US, a double shot often equates to 2 ounces, not double the standard 1.5 ounces. This means a double is effectively a 2-ounce pour, a common measurement, especially for spirits served neat or on the rocks. Being aware of this difference is important for managing your alcohol intake responsibly.

Conclusion

So, is a shot 1oz or 2? The definitive answer is neither. In the United States, the standard is 1.5 ounces, but this is a guideline, not a strict law. The size can fluctuate based on the establishment's policies and location, and varies significantly across international borders. For precise measurement, especially in cocktails, a jigger is the proper tool. Ultimately, understanding these variations allows for more knowledgeable and responsible drinking, whether at a local bar or mixing a drink at home. The key is to remember that a single, standard shot is not a universally fixed measurement, and context is everything. Find a comprehensive list of international shot sizes here.

Frequently Asked Questions

The size of a shot is not universally standardized due to differences in cultural drinking practices, historical context, and local alcohol regulations, with some countries measuring in ounces and others in milliliters.

In the United States, a standard shot is widely accepted as 1.5 fluid ounces, equivalent to approximately 44 milliliters.

A jigger is a professional measuring tool with precise, dual-sided volumes used to measure ingredients for cocktails, while a shot glass is primarily a drinking vessel whose capacity can vary significantly.

For accurate measurements, use a jigger with clearly marked volumes. If you don't have one, remember that a standard 1.5-ounce shot is equivalent to 3 tablespoons, which can be measured using standard kitchen tools.

In the US, a double shot is often a 2-ounce pour, rather than a literal doubling of the standard 1.5-ounce shot. However, this can still vary by bar and drink.

No, not all bars serve the same size shot. Some corporate establishments might use slightly smaller pours to save costs, while others may offer larger pours depending on their clientele and pricing strategy.

Precise measurement is crucial for making consistent, balanced cocktails. It also helps with responsible alcohol service and for consumers to better track their alcohol consumption.

A pony shot is a smaller measure, typically 1 ounce, and is sometimes used for higher-proof spirits or specific cocktail applications.