Over 15 years handling, testing, and restoring pocket, fixed-blade, and Damascus steel knives across hunting and everyday-carry disciplines.
Mixology – How to choose your shaker?
An essential tool for cocktail preparation, the shaker comes in several different shapes. It is an iconic piece of mixology equipment, though its exact purpose isn’t always common knowledge. Join us as we explore why and how to choose a shaker for your cocktails.

An essential tool for cocktail preparation, the shaker comes in several different shapes. It is an iconic piece of mixology equipment, though its exact purpose isn’t always common knowledge. Join us as we explore why and how to choose a shaker for your cocktails.
Why use a shaker to make a cocktail?
You might think that using a spoon is just as effective as using a shaker when preparing a cocktail. However, this technique isn’t ideal for every drink. Every liquid has its own consistency. Spirits, fruit juice, liqueurs, syrup, egg white… each of these ingredients has a different density and varies in miscibility.
To prepare a cocktail and blend the different liquids together, there are two distinct techniques.
The stirred technique, which involves mixing liquids using a spoon. This method is effective when the various ingredients used to make the cocktail have a similar density. This is the case, for example, when you are making a cocktail exclusively from several different alcohols. Using a spoon gently blends the liquids without “breaking” the sometimes complex aromas of certain spirits.
The shaken technique, which involves mixing your preparation using a shaker. This method is effective for blending liquids that do not share the same density. Thanks to the vigorous movements made with the shaker, they can be blended efficiently, even if the various ingredients in your cocktail are not naturally miscible.
Using a shaker creates a much more homogenous mix than a spoon can achieve. It also prevents the unpleasant formation of distinct layers of varying alcohol strength within your cocktail.
How to choose a shaker for making cocktails?
There are three types of shakers for making cocktails. Discover with us which model suits your needs best.
The Cobbler Shaker (three-piece shaker)
This is the most commonly used type of shaker in cocktail making. It consists of three distinct pieces:
- A tin / cup
- A built-in strainer
- A cap
Compact in size, it is the easiest model to handle. The various pieces fit together securely, minimizing the risk of the container coming apart while in use. It is perfectly suited for amateurs and beginners in mixology, and it is also the most widely available model on the market.
Its built-in ice strainer is not recommended for professional use, as it tends to chip the ice. The resulting meltwater dilutes the rest of the ingredients. Although minimal, this phenomenon tends to impair the preservation of the flavors and aromas of your spirits.
Example of a Cobbler shaker: https://cocktailbarware.co.uk/shop/materiel-de-bar/shaker-cocktail/cocktail-shaker-piccolo-mezclar-600ml/
The Boston Shaker
Invented in the United States in the mid-19th century, this is the most historic shaker model. It consists of two pieces:
- A metal tin
- A glass
Large in size, it is harder to handle than the Cobbler shaker. Its unique design, featuring an integrated glass, requires experience and agility to master. One wrong move and you risk spilling everything. Therefore, this model is not suitable for novices.
It is ideal if you love authenticity and already have a good grasp of using a shaker.
Example of a Boston shaker: https://cocktailbarware.co.uk/shop/materiel-de-bar/shaker-cocktail/boston-shaker-28-oz-minin-tin-18oz-mezclar/
The Continental Shaker
This shaker model features a sleek, highly modern, and aesthetic design. It consists of two pieces:
- A tin
- A cap
Easier to handle than the Boston shaker, it allows for quick cocktail preparation, though it still requires the use of an external strainer.
This is the preferred model for professional mixologists. It allows for faster cocktail making than the Boston shaker, but its shape is less traditional. It may not suit you if you are looking for a classic-style shaker.
Example of a continental shaker: https://cocktailbarware.co.uk/shop/materiel-de-bar/shaker-cocktail/calabrese-2pc-shaker-90cl/
Leave a comment
Related topics

Recipes: 10 essential cocktails to master
5 tips to succeed in making your cocktails every time
plastic champagne flutes
Let’s stay connected!
Sign up for our newsletter
FAQ
Questions about Orders and Payments
1. How to place an order on our website?
• Select the products you wish to purchase, add them to your cart, then follow the checkout process by entering your delivery and payment information.
2. What payment methods do you accept?
• We accept major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), PayPal, and other specific payment methods such as bank transfers, Apple Pay, or installment payments.
3. Can I modify or cancel my order after placing it?
• You can modify or cancel your order within 24 hours of validation, provided it has not yet been shipped.
4. How can I use a discount code?
• Enter your discount code in the designated field during the checkout process, and the discount will be applied automatically to your order.
5. How can I get an invoice?
To download your invoice, follow these simple steps: 1. Go to your customer account on our shop. 2. Access the “Order history and details” section. 3. Select the desired order. 4. Download your invoice directly from this page.
⚠️ Claim upon receipt
In case of damaged packages, missing or non-compliant items, please contact us within 48 hours following receipt via our contact form or by email.
After this period, we cannot guarantee coverage for transport-related damage.
This does not affect your legal rights regarding conformity guarantees or withdrawal (14 days).
Questions about Delivery
5. What are the delivery times?
• Delivery times vary depending on your location and the selected carrier. In general, here are the estimated times according to the chosen delivery method:
• Pickup point: 3 to 5 business days.
• Colissimo: 24 to 48 hours.
• Chronopost: 24 hours.
• Géodis: 5 to 7 business days.
Please note that occasionally, although rarely, delivery delays may occur beyond our control due to issues encountered by carrier networks. If this happens, you will be notified by email.
6. Do you deliver internationally?
• Yes, we offer delivery to several countries. Delivery fees and times vary depending on the destination country.
7. How can I track my order?
• For optimal order tracking, we recommend creating a customer account to find all your information. However, once your order has shipped, even without an account, you will receive an email with a tracking number that you can use to track your package online.
8. What happens if I am not home at the time of delivery?
If you are absent during delivery, the carrier will leave a delivery notice with instructions on how to pick up your package or schedule a new delivery. If the package is returned to us due to an incorrect address or if the package was not picked up within the timeframe specified by the carrier, additional fees may be charged for reshipment.
8. I chose warehouse pickup, how does it work?
Once the order is finalized, we will contact you to schedule an appointment to pick up your order at our warehouse.
Pickups are strictly by appointment from Monday to Friday between 9 AM and 1:30 PM. Our warehouse is located in Serris (77).
Questions about Returns and Refunds
9. What is your return policy?
• You have 14 days from the date of receipt to return an item if it does not suit you. Items must be in their original condition, unused, and in their original packaging. Please note that for safety and hygiene reasons, we do not accept returns on perishable food products (such as dehydrated fruit or candied cherries). Thank you for your understanding.
10. How can I return a product?
unused and in its intact original packaging to be eligible for restocking. Once the return is received and inspected, we will proceed with the refund.
11. When will I receive my refund?
• Refunds are generally processed within 5 to 10 business days after receipt and inspection of your return.
12. Can I exchange an item?
• Yes, exchanges are possible for items of equivalent value. Contact our customer service to arrange an exchange. Return shipping costs are the customer’s responsibility.
General Questions
How to create an account on your site?
Click on “Create an account” at the top of our site, then follow the instructions to enter your personal information and create your account.
Can I place an order without creating an account?
Yes, it is possible to place an order as a guest. However, creating an account allows you to track your orders more easily and save your information for future purchases.
How to contact your customer service?
You can contact us by email at contact@cocktailbarware.co.uk , by phone at 07.81.35.50.84, or via our contact form available on the site.
Do you offer gift cards?
Yes, we offer gift cards that you can purchase online and send by email to the recipient of your choice.
Do you offer special promotions or discounts?
Yes, sign up for our newsletter to receive information about our exclusive promotions and discounts.
What is the deadline to report an issue with my order upon receipt?
The customer is required to check the condition and compliance of the delivered products upon receipt. Any claim concerning missing, damaged, or non-compliant products must be made in writing (mail, email) within a maximum period of 48 hours following delivery. After this period, the products will be deemed accepted without reservation, and no claims will be considered.
Questions about the Loyalty Program
How does the loyalty program work?
Our loyalty program is designed to reward our regular customers. To be eligible, you must have a customer account and have made cumulative purchases totaling at least €300, regardless of how the orders are distributed. You do not need to make a single purchase of €300; multiple orders can add up to reach this amount.
How are loyalty coupons calculated?
As soon as the cumulative amount of your orders reaches €300, you automatically receive a 5% discount on every product purchased. This discount is credited in the form of loyalty coupons to your customer account, under the “My rewards” section. For example, if you place an order of €100, a €5 loyalty coupon will be added to your account.
How do I use my loyalty coupons?
You can use your loyalty coupons on your next orders:
• You can use your loyalty balance to cover the total amount of your order if the balance is sufficient. • You can also deduct a portion of your order amount based on the available balance in your account. Your loyalty coupon balance will be automatically applied at checkout, according to your choice. You can check your coupon balance at any time in the “My rewards” section of your customer account.
How long are my loyalty coupons valid?
Loyalty coupons have a limited validity period. Be sure to use them before they expire, as visible in the “My rewards” section of your customer space.
Related products
-

Cala straws VOM (set of 6)
£117.60 -

Caviarbox
£100.00 -

CO₂ carbonation kit
£89.49

