A jigger, also called bar or cocktail jigger, is a small, often hourglass-shaped tool that makes it easy to measure ingredients to create cocktails quickly and consistently. Usually made of metal (and sometimes plastic), jiggers contain two different measuring amounts – one on either side of the hourglass. Jiggers can come in different styles and sizes. Sometimes the word "jigger" is also used as a measuring unit itself. So whenever someone asks for a jigger shot: this refers to 1.5oz of whatever liquor you're currently serving.
These are cheap and easy to find in most housewares stores, or online. Typically, the larger cup measures out exactly one jigger, or 1 1/2 ounces. The smaller cup is normally one half jigger, or 3/4 ounces. Be careful—a number of other sizes exist, and you should know what units you need.
Many professional bartenders have built up strong proficiency with using these in settings where speed is of an essence. The way to use a jigger most efficiently is to hold it between thumb and forefinger, or between your first and second fingers, like so:
Hold the jigger steady, and fill it brim-full with your liquid of choice; and then it's easy to quickly tip the contents into a shaker or mixing glass.
Cool looking brushed stainless steel on the inside, a polished colour on the outside... This jigger is not only helping you to work precisely at your bar but also looks fantastic!
If there’s one tool every bar needs, it’s the cocktail Jigger. This understated bar tool holds the key for perfectly balanced, complex cocktails needing mathematic accuracy. Many bartenders may choose to free pour these days over using a Jigger, but this doesn’t mean it’s becoming obsolete. Read on to learn what is a Jigger and how to use one…
