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So what is a jigger? It could be considered the most essential bar tool. Used to measure spirits, syrups, and other liquid ingredients, it helps you concoct the perfect cocktail every time. Using a jigger helps to maintain consistency and accuracy in recipes, beyond the savings costs of over-pours, or under-pours for that matter. When enjoying my cocktails I prefer the consistancy a jigger helps deliver.

There are few types of jiggers, in different shapes and sizes, but there are really only a few types of jiggers and each have their own advantages and disadvantages.

A single jigger has one bowl: a double jigger has a bowl on each end: an angled jigger has a stepped spout. There’s also an odd one that I have never seen at a bar: a triangular jigger divides and the bowl is divided into smaller reservoir. I have used the first three before, but not the triangular shaped one which is definitely not bar friendly.

Let’s talk about the Triangular Jigger, which as interesting looking as it is, I just can’t bring myself to buy that one. I know you are suppose to be able to eyeball small amounts, like one-quarter or three-quarters of an ounce, quickly to save on over-boozage, but I feel when pouring from a large mouth bottle there is going to be overflow for sure. If you look on the website they even provide pouring spouts to help get it into that little reservoir. To me this is just not an efficient bar pouring device.

Let’s move on to the more classic jiggers starting with the single reservoir variant. There are a two main variations of this single bowl. The single reservoir and stepped spout reservoir. The capacity of the jigger can vary but it typically ranges between 1 oz (30 ml) to 2 oz (60 ml) of liquid. Some of the single bowl jiggers have notches to help with some of the middle pours like .25 oz (7 ml), .5 oz (15 ml) or .75 oz (22 ml), but not necessarily. The stepped spout one is almost identical to the single bowl and typically has all the markings, but with the steps. To me this is more of a home bartending tool and it is not as efficient for bartenders to get the desired measurement of alcohol to the mixing glass or shaker efficiently.

The double sided jigger usually

While a single jigger may not offer the versatility of a double jigger, it can still be a valuable tool for bartenders who prefer a straightforward and compact measuring option. It’s worth noting that some bartenders choose to use a combination of single and double jiggers to accommodate different recipe requirements and personal preferences.

Overall the goal remains the same not matter which jigger you use. To provide accurate and consistent measurements of ingredients, resulting in well-balanced and flavorful cocktail!