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What Is a Standard Shot Glass Size?

Many people enjoy a shot of their favorite alcoholic drink. They’re often fun to share with friends or workmates at the end of a long day, either at the bar or at home. But, if you’ve ever wondered about the average shot glass size, you might be surprised by the answer.

This guide will look at the standard shot glass size both in the U.S. and abroad.

What Is a Standard Shot Glass Size?

Standard Shot Glass Size in the U.S.

In the United States, the standard shot glass size is 1.5 fluid ounces. In milliliters, that works out to 43.77 ml. It can also be broken down into other measurements, like three tablespoons or nine teaspoons per standard shot.

Close-up of beer glass on table

While this size isn’t exactly official or written into federal law, it’s the standard for bars across America. So, if you order a shot in most places around the U.S., you can expect it to come in a 1.5 fluid-ounce glass.

However, that doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get a full 1.5 fluid ounce of alcohol. Some bartenders only pour shots in single fluid ounces and may vary their doses. This may depend on the type of alcohol being ordered and its alcohol by volume (ABV) percentage.

Standard Shot Glass Size Elsewhere

With 1.5 oz being the standard shot glass size in the U.S., you might assume that it’s also the same across the globe. But that’s not quite right. There’s no universal standard when it comes to shot glass size, and shots can vary massively from place to place.

Some of them are much smaller than their American counterparts and some are significantly larger. In terms of why this is, there are a couple of reasons. Firstly, as mentioned, there’s no universal standard for shot glasses, so countries are all free to define shots in their own ways.

Empty glasses of old fashion for whiskey or rum

Secondly, different countries have different attitudes towards alcohol and how much of it people are able to safely consume. Some nations are quite strict on the matter, which tends to result in smaller shot glasses, while others are more liberal, with larger shot glass sizes.

Here’s a rundown of how shot glass size varies from country to country, going from smallest to largest:

  • 0.67 oz in Denmark and Germany
  • 0.84 oz in the United Kingdom and South Africa
  • 1.01 oz in Australia, India, and Serbia
  • 1.2 oz in Ireland
  • 1.35 oz in Finland, Sweden, Hungary, and Poland
  • 1.44 oz in Canada
  • 1.5 oz in the United States
  • 1.52 oz in Greece
  • 1.69 oz in Bulgaria, Slovakia, Romania, and Russia
  • 2.02 oz in Italy, Japan, and Israel

As you can see, the shot glass size spectrum is pretty broad. It ranges from just two-thirds of an ounce all the way up to over two fluid ounces. So, if you order a shot in a country like Japan or Italy, you’re going to get a much bigger dose than you would expect in a nation like Germany or the U.K.

Tincture of red color in a crystal glass stands on a wooden table

Other Important Shot Sizes and Measurements to Be Aware Of

As well as knowing the standard shot glass size in the U.S. and beyond, liquor enthusiasts may also want to know some other shot-related measurements and terms. Here’s a list:

  • Double Shot: A double shot is just what it sounds like – twice as much as a standard shot. If you order this in the U.S., you’ll usually receive a full three fluid ounces of your beverage. However, some bars only serve two ounces for every double shot.
  • Pony Shot: A pony shot is a smaller-than-average shot. It usually consists of just a single ounce, making it a desirable option for those who don’t want to drink quite as much.
  • Tall Glass: A tall shot glass is taller than average, as the name suggests. It can typically hold either two or 2.5 ounces in total.
  • Fluted Glass: You may also have your shots served in a fluted glass. They’re usually the same standard shot glass size as the rest, 1.5 oz, but some may be larger. The unique feature of fluted glasses is their curved shape, which many find aesthetically pleasing.
  • Cheater Glass: Some bars use cheater glasses, designed to “cheat” patrons into thinking they’re getting a full-size shot. In reality, these glasses have thick bases and often only hold a single ounce of liquid, rather than 1.5.
Colorful faceted and geometric drink glasses

So, when it comes to standard shot glass size, 1.5 oz is the general figure to keep in mind. However, it all depends on where you’re drinking, what kind of glass you’re drinking from, and what the bar’s own policy is regarding shot sizes.

Make Your Own Shot Glasses with Custom Shot Glass Now

Now you know the standard shot glass size to focus on if you want to prepare your own shots at home. But, in order to do that, you’ll also need to have some classy shot glasses to bust out and impress your friends. That’s where Custom Shot Glass Now comes in.

Custom Shot Glass Now gives you the freedom to design and order your very own customized shot glasses. You can pick from lots of different styles and shot glass size options to suit your tastes. It’s even possible to pick a guaranteed delivery date that works for you.

Shot glasses arranged side by side on table

Here are just some of the reasons to order custom shot glasses from Custom Shot Glass Now:

  • Lots of Options: Choose from lots of styles, like frosted glass shot glasses, clear glasses, tall glasses, and more in various shot glass size options.
  • Great Value: Get the best prices on every order. Plus, enjoy big discounts if you decide to order shot glasses in bulk.
  • Complete Customization: Design one-of-a-kind shot glasses just for you, with your own custom art, text, and logos.

So, no matter what shot glass size you want or how many glasses you need for your next big get-together, choose Custom Shot Glass Now.

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