Jigger

Tool

A jigger is a bar tool with two measuring cups that you use to pour set amounts of spirits and mixers.

Also called: cocktail jigger · bar jigger

Standard US jigger: 1.5 oz (44 ml) and 0.75 oz (22 ml)
Japanese-style jigger: 2 oz (60 ml) and 1 oz (30 ml)
UK jigger: 1.7 oz (50 ml) and 0.85 oz (25 ml)
Cup sizes sold: 0.5 oz (15 ml) to 2 oz (60 ml)
Tablespoon equivalent: 1 tablespoon = 0.5 oz (15 ml)

What jigger means

Bartenders reach for the jigger when they need the same pour every time. It is a bar tool with two measuring cups, and some have lines inside for partial amounts. Recipes often call for a shot of spirit, and the jigger keeps that amount exact.

How much a jigger holds depends on its cups. Cup sizes run from 0.5 oz (15 ml) to 2 oz (60 ml). A standard US jigger has a 1.5 oz (44 ml) cup and a 0.75 oz (22 ml) cup. A Japanese-style jigger has 2 oz (60 ml) and 1 oz (30 ml). A UK jigger has 1.7 oz (50 ml) and 0.85 oz (25 ml).

You may have heard that a jigger always holds 1 oz (30 ml), or always 1.5 oz (44 ml). The cup sizes vary, though, so check the size stamped on yours. Some bartenders free pour instead, which is faster but less exact.

How to use a jigger

Each part of the drink gets an exact measure, so you can make it the same way again.

1.Hold the jigger level over the shaker so the spirit pours straight in.
2.Fill the cup to the brim for a full measure, using the cup that matches the recipe.
3.Use the lines inside the cup for partial amounts, such as 0.5 oz (15 ml).
4.Tip the measure into the tin with a quick turn of the wrist, so nothing clings to the cup.

No jigger? Without a jigger, use tablespoons. One tablespoon is 0.5 oz (15 ml), so three tablespoons make a 1.5 oz (44 ml) pour.

Jigger compared

ShotA shot is the amount you pour. A jigger is the tool that measures it, and its big cup usually holds one 1.5 oz (44 ml) shot.
PonyA pony is 1 oz (30 ml), the size of the small cup on many jiggers.
Free pourFree-pouring times the pour from a spout instead of measuring it in a cup.
Jigger (parasite)The chigoe flea is also called a jigger. It is a skin parasite and has nothing to do with drinks.

Related terms

Put it to use in your next drink

Garçon explains every step as you make the drink.