This is a great question as it causes a ton of confusion amongst bartenders and the home mixologist alike. Accodring to most, a standard shot is 1 1/2 fluid ounces, this is also commonly known as a Jigger. If you are counting at home, that’s a 6 count.

Wait,there are a few other types of shots:

- a 1 ounce shot is known as a Pony
- a double shot is 3 ounces

The British have a whole different system (25ml – 35 ml for a single shot), we’ll save that for another post.

The bar tool know as a Jigger (pictured here) actually has both a 1 1/2 oz”jigger”. and a 1 oz. “pony” measure. I love this tool! Counting is fine, but the Jigger is exact. When times get busy, it is a lifesaver. What can I say, sometimes counting to 6 is hard. I tend to use a jigger to take the “human element” (aka ME) out of the equation of making drinks.

Here’s a handy guide I made (print it out and put it on the bar)
Bar Measurement Chart