How Many ML is a Shot? (Updated, 2024)

If you’ve ever been out for drinks at a bar or restaurant, you’ve probably heard someone order a “shot.” But how much liquid is actually in a shot glass? Is it the same for every kind of alcohol?

So let’s get straight into it. A shot glass typically consists of 1.5 ounces (44.4ml) of liquor, which is equal to one standard-sized shot glass. In reality, though, the exact amount can vary from bartender to bartender and from bar to bar (1).

While there are variations in size based on the type of alcohol and the type of liquor, most shots contain this exact amount. For example, vodka shots usually consist of 1.5 ounces (44.4 ml), while whiskey shots usually consist of 2 ounces (59 ml).

It’s important to note that different countries have different definitions for what constitutes a “shot,” so certain measurements may be slightly different depending on where you are located.

When I went to Russia, for example, I was really surprised to see how large their shot glasses were. They were approximately 1.7 fl oz or 50 ml, much bigger than the standard 1.5 fl oz or 44 ml shot glass in America (2).

So if you’re unsure about how much liquor makes up a shot, just remember that it’s usually equal to one standard-sized shot glass – no matter what kind of alcohol it is.

How Much Liquor Is In A Shot?

The amount of liquor in a shot can vary from country to country and from one type of alcohol to another. The most common definition for a shot is 1.5 ounces (44 milliliters). This means that one shot contains about three times as much alcohol as one can of beer or one glass of wine (which are each 12 ounces).

Some countries may use smaller measurements for shots; for example, in Australia, a “standard” shot is equal to 30 ml (1 ounce). 

The table below will show in more detail the standard measurement for shots in different countries around the world:

So if you’re planning on enjoying a night out with friends or having a drink at home, keep in mind that the amount of liquor in a shot can vary depending on the country and the type of alcohol you’re drinking.

When you are on a night out, it’s important to know these details before consuming any alcoholic beverage.

What Is A Shot Glass?

An alcohol shot glass is a small container that holds a single serving of an alcoholic beverage. It is typically made from glass or ceramic and often comes in different colors or shapes.

Whether it be tequila, vodka, or your favorite beverage of choice – a shot glass is the ideal drinking vessel for people who want to quickly and easily enjoy their favorite liquor.

One of the main benefits of a shot glass is that it can help prevent you from accidentally consuming too much alcohol, which could lead to alcohol poisoning or other negative health effects.

The shape of the shot glass allows for easy pouring and measuring of the drink. This makes it very convenient for bartenders as well as home mixologists. Constructed with a heavy-duty glass base, a shot glass is designed to withstand impact even when dropped or slammed against a bar countertop.

Why Are Alcohol Shot Glasses Used?

Alcohol shot glasses are designed to make consuming alcohol easier and more efficient. They are ideal for quickly measuring out single servings so that drinks can be mixed accurately without having to measure out each ingredient separately.

Using a shot glass also helps control how much people consume in one sitting, which can help prevent overconsumption and intoxication. 

This makes them perfect for use in bars, restaurants, and at home when hosting parties or dinner events. 

Types Of Shot Glasses

The most common type of shot glass is straight-sided shot glass made from clear glass or plastic. This style is easily recognizable and can be used with any type of liquor.

Another popular type of shot glass is the rocks or old-fashioned whiskey-style glasses. These are slightly larger than standard shot glasses, usually holding 2 ounces (60 ml). They have tapered sides and a heavy base which helps keep them stable when filled with liquor or other liquids. 

Finally, there are novelty shots such as shaped molds or mini-mugs designed for special occasions or themed parties. These are often made from ceramic or metal and feature fun designs or slogans like “Cheers!” on them.

The Origins of the Shot Glass

Shot glasses have been around since the 1700s. During this time, there were no standard measurements for alcohol, so pubs would serve drinks based on a “shot” which was usually around 1.5 ounces.

They were known as “drams” and were typically made from pewter.

The first recorded use of the term “shot glass” was in 1795 when an advertisement for a whiskey distillery referred to them as “shots.”

Evolution of the Shot Glass

In the 1800s, manufacturers began producing shot glasses out of glass instead of ceramic or metal and they quickly became popular due to their portability and convenience.

It wasn’t until Prohibition that shot glasses really took off in popularity due to their association with bootlegging and speakeasies. Since alcohol was illegal during this time, people turned to small containers like shot glasses to sneakily enjoy their beverages without being noticed by law enforcement.

By this time, shot glasses had become much smaller in size – measuring only one ounce instead of 1.5 ounces – and were often made from crystal or cut glass instead of plain glass.

Modern Day Shot Glasses

Today, shot glasses come in all shapes and sizes and are used for more than just traditional shots of hard liquor.

Shot glasses can be found everywhere from bars and restaurants to homes and parties. They also come in a variety of materials including glass, plastic, ceramic, stainless steel, copper, wood, marble, and more.

Different Types of Shot Glasses

Let’s now have a look at the different types of shot glasses available and how they can be used.

• Traditional Shot Glasses

The classic shot glass is what comes to mind when most people think of shot glasses. This type of shot glass typically holds 1 ½ ounce and features a thick base for stability. These are perfect for casual parties and can easily be found in any well-stocked barware section.

• Slimline Shot Glasses

Slimline shot glasses are thinner versions of traditional shot glasses. They hold about 1 ounce each and feature narrow bases that make them easier to stack. If you’re trying to save space or have a smaller area to work with, slimline shots make an excellent choice.

• Jager Bombs Shot Glasses 

These two specialty shots are wildly popular at bars and clubs around the world (especially among college students).

Jager Bombs are made with equal parts Jägermeister liqueur and Red Bull energy drinks.

The size of these shots varies depending on where you buy them – some sets include larger 8-ounce glasses (the same size as regular drinking glasses) while others offer more traditional 1 ½-ounce shot sizes.

• Tequila Shooters

Tequila shooters are specially designed for tequila shots. These short glasses usually hold two ounces and feature an oversized bowl top with a dip in the middle that makes it easy to pour tequila into them without it spilling over the sides.

Tequila shooters often come in fun colors and designs like limes or chili peppers which add a festive flair to any party.  

• Decorative Shot Glasses

Decorative shot glasses are perfect for adding a touch of class and sophistication to any occasion. Many decorative shot glasses feature intricate designs carved into their bases or sides, giving them an elegant feel that traditional shot glasses may lack.

You can also find decorative models made from materials such as crystal or silver, adding even more style and sophistication to your gathering.

How to Measure a Shot of Alcohol Like a Pro

Whether you’re a bartender or an at-home mixologist, an important skill to have is knowing how to measure out a shot of alcohol.

Knowing how much alcohol you are pouring into each drink is essential for creating cocktails that taste just right – too much and your drinks will be too strong, too little and they won’t pack enough of a punch.

Below are the basics of how to measure out a shot of alcohol like a professional.

Standard Measurements

Most bartenders use standard measurements when measuring out shots. A standard “shot” is usually 1.5 ounces (or 44 ml), but this can vary depending on where you are in the world and which type of spirit you are using.

For example, in the United States, most whiskey shots are served as 1.25 ounces (37 ml). For other spirits such as vodka or tequila, it is more common to serve them as 1.5 ounces (44 ml).

Measuring Tools

When it comes to measuring out shots, there are two main tools used by bartenders – jiggers and free-pour spouts.

Jiggers are small metal measuring cups with two sides – one side measures one ounce while the second side measures two ounces. They are great for ensuring that your measurements are exact every single time.

Free pour spouts, on the other hand, attach directly to your bottle and allow you to pour measured amounts without having to count drops or eyeball them. These are especially helpful if you need to make multiple drinks quickly and don’t have time for exact measurements each time.

The upside to using free-pour spouts is that you can make sure that each drink has the same amount of alcohol in it. So no matter where your guests are sitting or how much they are drinking, every drink will have the same flavor and kick.

When you first start out, it might be helpful to measure each shot until you get the hang of it. Once you are comfortable with your measurements, there is no need to keep measuring each time – just eyeball it like you were free pouring and pouring enough to fill a standard shot glass.

FAQs about Shot Glasses

Let’s have a look at some of the most frequently asked questions about shot glasses:

Can I Take Shot Glasses In My Carry On?

Yes, you can bring shot glasses on a plane. The TSA allows glass picture frames, bottles, and vases under 100ml to be packed inside both carry-on and checked bags. You can also carry up to 5 liters of alcohol less than 24%ABV or up to 3 liters of alcohol greater than 24%ABV in checked luggage. It is, however, important to note that any glass bottle containing more than 100ml will need to be packed into your checked luggage and cannot be carried on the plane with you.

Can Shot Glasses Go In The Microwave?

Yes, shot glasses can be safely microwaved for short 20-30 stints as long as they are labeled “microwave safe.” This allows the glass to be heated up to high temperatures without breaking or shattering. There are not many drinks that can fit in a shot glass that need to be reheated, but if you have a little leftover coffee or tea to heat up, a shot glass will be a suitable container to use.

Do Shot Glasses Leak?

No, most shot glasses are designed to be leak-proof. This can be achieved through a variety of methods, including using sturdy glass material and sealing the rim with a safe adhesive. However, some cheaper or older glassware may not offer this same level of protection, so it is important to check the quality and sealability of your shot glasses before using them.

Can Shot Glasses Go In The Oven

No, shot glasses should not go in the oven. This is because glass can be extremely fragile, and putting it in an oven where the temperature increases and decreases rapidly will cause the glass to shatter or crack.

Can Shot Glasses Be Recycled

Yes, shot glasses can typically be recycled. Most shot glasses are made from glass, which is a recyclable material that can be easily repurposed into new products.

If you want to recycle your shot glasses, check with your local recycling center or municipal waste authority to find out how and where you can send them for recycling. Some areas may have specific recycling programs for glassware, while others may require you to separate your shot glasses from other types of glass before sending them in.

In addition to recycling your shot glasses, there are also a number of ways that you can reduce your use of these products and help to reduce waste overall. For example, instead of using disposable shot glasses at parties or gatherings, you can use reusable glassware that can be washed and reused.

You can also try to find brands that use more eco-friendly materials for their products, such as recycled glass or sustainable plastics. By making these small changes, you can help to reduce your impact on the environment and keep our planet healthy for generations to come.​

Final Thoughts

Knowing exactly how much liquor is in your shot glass can help ensure that you don’t overindulge while still enjoying your favorite drinks responsibly.

The standard amount for a shot of liquor is 1.5 ounces or 44 ml but some establishments may offer other sizes so be sure to ask your bartender before ordering.

Remember to always consume alcohol in moderation and never drive after drinking! With this information in hand, nothing will stop you from having fun at the bar safely and responsibly.

References

• What Is A Standard Drink? – Link
• Standard Drink Tool – Link