How Many Ml in a Shot: A Complete Guide to Shot Sizes and Measurements
Introduction: Understanding Shot Sizes and Measurements in Milliliters
When it comes to enjoying your favorite alcoholic beverages, knowing how many ml in a shot is crucial. Whether you’re mixing cocktails, bartending, or simply pouring a drink at home, understanding the volume of a shot is essential for maintaining consistency and accuracy. In this guide, we’ll explore the standard shot size in ml, variations across different countries, and the importance of knowing how much ml is in a shot.
What Is a Shot and Why the Measurement Matters?
A shot refers to a small serving of liquor, typically consumed in one go. The shot size varies depending on the country and the type of drink. But why does knowing the shot measurement in ml matter?
- Consistency in Cocktails: A precise shot ensures that the proportions of the ingredients in a cocktail are accurate, preserving the taste and balance.
- Alcohol Content: Knowing how much ml in a shot helps you understand the alcohol content you’re consuming. This is especially important for responsible drinking.
Understanding how many ml in a standard shot can also guide you in following proper serving sizes, whether you’re at a bar or preparing drinks at home.
Standard Shot Size in Milliliters
How Many Ml in a Standard Shot?
In most places, the standard shot size is generally considered to be around 44 ml (1.5 ounces) for a typical alcoholic beverage like whiskey or vodka. However, this can vary depending on the country, the type of alcohol, and local regulations. In some countries, like the United States, the typical shot is 1.5 oz (44 ml), but in places like Japan or the UK, the size may differ.
- US Standard: 1.5 oz (44 ml)
- UK Standard: 25 ml or 35 ml
- Canada Standard: 1.5 oz (44 ml)
How Much Ml is One Shot of Alcohol?
It’s important to note that different types of alcohol may have different shot sizes. Typically, a shot of whiskey or vodka will have the same volume, but some drinks, like tequila shots, may be served in larger or smaller portions depending on the occasion or drink recipe.
- Whiskey Shot Size: 1.5 oz (44 ml)
- Vodka Shot Size: 1.5 oz (44 ml)
- Tequila Shot Size: 1.5 oz (44 ml)

Shot Measurements and Their Importance
Why Shot Measurement in Ml Is Important for Bartenders
For professional bartenders, knowing the ml per shot is essential for several reasons:
- Consistency: Whether you’re mixing cocktails for a large group or preparing drinks for a solo guest, knowing how much ml in a shot helps ensure every drink is served consistently.
- Speed: Bartenders can work more quickly when they know exactly how much liquid to pour without guessing.
How Many Milliliters in a Shot of Whiskey/Vodka/Tequila?
Understanding the shot size for specific alcohols is crucial for bartenders and home mixologists alike. Here’s the standard measurement for various spirits:
- Whiskey Shot: 44 ml
- Vodka Shot: 44 ml
- Tequila Shot: 44 ml
While these are typical measurements, always check the specific guidelines for your region, as shot sizes can vary globally. This will help you craft the perfect drink every time.
Conversions: How Many Ml in a Shot vs. Ounces?
Converting Shot Size from Fluid Ounces to Milliliters
If you’re accustomed to the oz measurement and want to know how many ml is in a shot, you can easily convert: 1 oz = 29.5735 ml
For a 1.5 oz shot (standard size), the conversion would be:
- 1.5 oz = 44.3605 ml
It’s useful to know this conversion when dealing with both international and local measurements, as many recipes and drink labels may be in ounces rather than milliliters.
Variations in Shot Size: Small and Large Shots
Small Shot: How Many Ml Is a Smaller Shot?
Some drinks, particularly those served in tasting portions or mini cocktails, might be served in smaller shots. These could be as small as 20 ml or 25 ml. Smaller shots are commonly used for spirits like liqueurs or shots for sipping.
- Small Shot Size: Typically 20 ml – 25 ml
- Purpose: Used for liqueurs, tasting, or when drinking responsibly
Large Shot: How Many Ml Is a Larger Shot?
In certain cocktails or specialty drinks, you may encounter larger shot sizes, typically up to 60 ml. These are less common but can be used in drinks like Irish Coffee or Large Margarita Shots.
- Large Shot Size: Typically 60 ml
- Purpose: Used in certain cocktails or special occasion servings

The Role of Shot Glasses and Their Capacity in Ml
Shot Glass Capacity: How Many Ml in a Shot Glass?
A shot glass is designed to hold a specific amount of liquid. While shot glasses vary slightly in design, they typically hold around 44 ml of liquid, which is the equivalent of a standard shot in many countries. However, smaller or larger shot glasses may exist, depending on regional preferences and traditions.
- Standard Shot Glass: 44 ml (1.5 oz)
- Variation: Smaller shot glasses may hold 20 ml – 25 ml
Conclusion: Mastering Shot Measurements for Perfect Drinks
Why Knowing Shot Volumes Helps Create Consistency in Drinks
Mastering the ml in a shot measurement is key to creating consistency in your drinks. Whether you’re a bartender serving customers or a home mixologist crafting cocktails for friends, ensuring that each shot is measured accurately will help you create balanced and flavorful drinks every time.
Here are a few quick tips for keeping your shot measurements precise:
- Invest in a jigger to help measure shot sizes.
- Always double-check shot glass sizes before using them.
- Practice consistency in pouring to avoid variations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many ml in a standard shot?
A standard shot typically contains 44 ml, which is equivalent to 1.5 oz. However, this may vary slightly depending on the country or region.
How many ml in a shot of whiskey or vodka?
A typical shot of whiskey or vodka is approximately 44 ml (1.5 oz), though this may vary depending on local regulations.
How many milliliters in a shot of tequila?
A shot of tequila generally contains 44 ml (1.5 oz), the same as other standard shots.
What is the difference between a small shot and a large shot?
A small shot typically contains 20 ml – 25 ml, while a large shot could be as much as 60 ml.
How many milliliters is in a jigger?
A jigger typically holds 44 ml (1.5 oz), the same as a standard shot glass.
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