When it comes to cocktails and mixed drinks, one common measurement term used is a “shot”. A shot is used to measure out alcohol for a drink. But what exactly is considered a standard shot size?
What is a Shot in Bartending?
In bartending, a standard shot is generally measured as 1.5 ounces or 44ml. This means a double shot would be 3 ounces or 88ml. Specifically:
- A single shot is typically 1.5 ounces or 44ml
- A double shot is typically 3 ounces or 88ml
However, there can be some variation when it comes to the exact size of a shot. While 1.5oz/44ml is standard, some bars may pour slightly less or more for a single shot depending on their measuring tools and preferences. The most common shot sizes are:
- 1 ounce or 30ml
- 1.25 ounces or 37ml
- 1.5 ounces or 44ml (standard single shot)
- 2 ounces or 60ml
So in summary, a standard single shot is 1.5oz/44ml, while a double shot is 3oz/88ml. But shot sizes can range from 1oz to 2oz depending on the bar.
Is a 50ml Pour Considered a Double Shot?
With the standard measurements in mind, a 50ml pour would generally not be considered a double shot. Here’s a breakdown:
- 50ml = 1.7oz
- Standard single shot = 1.5oz/44ml
- Standard double shot = 3oz/88ml
Since a double shot is 88ml or 3oz, a 50ml pour falls short of that at only 1.7oz. However, a 50ml pour is more than a standard single shot (44ml/1.5oz).
So while not a full double shot, a 50ml pour is a “heavy” single shot that is larger than the typical 1.5oz/44ml single shot. Some bars may use 50ml as their standard single shot size.
Typical Shot Sizes
Here is a summary of common shot size thresholds:
| Shot Type | Ounces | Milliliters |
|---|---|---|
| Single | 1 – 1.5oz | 30 – 44ml |
| Double | 2 – 3oz | 60 – 88ml |
| Heavy Single | 1.5 – 2oz | 44 – 60ml |
As shown, a 50ml pour falls into the heavy single shot range, bigger than a standard 1.5oz single shot but smaller than a 3oz double shot.
When Would a 50ml Shot be Used?
There are couple situations where a bartender may pour a 50ml shot:
- If 50ml is the standard single shot size at that bar
- If a customer requests a heavier single shot pour
- If pricing is based on 50ml pours (e.g. shots cost $5 for 50ml)
It provides more alcohol than a standard shot without being a full double pour. This allows bartenders to offer flexibility in shot sizes based on customer preferences.
Summary
In summary, while a standard single shot is 44ml/1.5oz and a double is 88ml/3oz, a 50ml pour is in between. It technically would not be considered a full double shot. However, at 1.7oz it is a “heavy” single shot that contains more alcohol than a standard 1.5oz shot.
Bartenders may use 50ml pours depending on the bar’s standard sizes or to accommodate customer requests. So while not a true double shot, a 50ml pour provides a nice middle ground between single and double shots.
