Jigger
A double-sided measuring tool used to portion spirits and modifiers accurately. Designed to ensure consistency, balance, and repeatability in cocktail preparation.
Essential Equipment
Recommended for every home bar
Price Guide
Alternatives
Budget Alternative
Shot glasses marked with volume measurements (£2–4) can be used in home settings, though they are slower and less accurate than a dedicated jigger.
Premium Option
Japanese-style stainless steel jiggers (£20–25) offer slimmer profiles, improved control, and clearer sightlines, making them ideal for precision-focused professional service.
Care & Maintenance
Care Instructions
- Rinse immediately after use to remove sugar and alcohol residue.
- Wash by hand or in a dishwasher-safe basket if permitted.
- Dry thoroughly to prevent spotting.
- Periodically check internal markings for wear.
Expected Lifespan
- •Premium stainless steel: 15+ years in professional use, effectively permanent at home
- •Standard stainless steel: 5–10 years before markings fade or edges wear
- •Budget or plated models: 1–3 years before accuracy or finish degrades
Pro Tip
If a drink only tastes right when guessed, the recipe isn’t finished yet.
Usage
Used for measuring precise liquid quantities when building cocktails to maintain balance, consistency, and accurate dilution.
What to Look For
- Clearly defined capacities that match your house pour standard.
- Thin walls for accurate visual reading at the rim.
- Internal markings for half and quarter measures.
- Balanced weight that feels stable when pouring quickly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Free-pouring before learning proper measurement discipline.
- Using novelty or oversized jiggers with unclear volumes.
- Relying on external markings that wear away over time.
- Switching between jigger styles without recalibrating muscle memory.
Professional Tips
- Fill the jigger to eye level to avoid under- or over-pouring.
- Pour smoothly and deliberately rather than rushing the measure.
- Use the same jigger consistently to maintain muscle memory.
- Rinse briefly between ingredients to prevent flavour carryover.
Specifications
Material
Stainless steel
Capacity
Common measures: 25ml / 50ml (UK standard) or 30ml / 45ml (international), depending on design
Details
Double-ended measuring tool with a bell shaped form. May include internal measurement markings for fractional pours.
History & Context
The jigger became standardised in the late 19th century as cocktails grew more complex and balance became critical. Originally informal in size, it evolved into a precise measuring tool as professional bartending prioritised consistency over guesswork. Today, the jigger remains the clearest marker of a disciplined bar.