Jigger / Bar Measure

If you’ve ever tried to recreate a cocktail at home, you know how crucial the dosage is. A bit too much alcohol, not enough syrup, and the whole balance is thrown off. That’s where the jigger, or bar measure, comes in. This small, unassuming accessory is nonetheless the mixologist’s number-one ally. As well as being practical, it adds a genuine touch of professionalism to your pour. Here’s why you’re going to (finally) love measuring!

What is a jigger?

The jigger is a cocktail measuring tool, often made of stainless steel, designed to hold standard alcohol measures (typically 2 cl, 4 cl or 5 cl). Some Japanese models, such as the “Koriko” or “Yukiwa” jiggers, offer pinpoint precision and an elegant design. It can also be called a cocktail measuring cup or double measure.

Why use a bar measure?

• Balanced cocktails: neither too strong nor too weak.
• Faster service: no need to hunt for the measuring spoon every time.
• Less waste: every centilitre counts.
• A professional style: your pours become precise and confident.

The different types of jiggers

• Japanese jigger: long, slim and ultra-elegant.
• Double jigger: two capacities on a single tool (25/50 ml, 20/40 ml…).
• Classic jigger: compact, practical, often in brushed steel.
• Designer models: in copper, matte black, rose gold… to add style to the bar.

How to choose your jigger?

It all depends on your needs and how you’ll use it:

• Just starting out? Choose a simple, sturdy model.
• Running a bar? Prioritise precision, ergonomics, and dishwasher compatibility.
• Love a bit of style? Copper or rose gold add real flair!

Recommended brands: Koriko, Yukiwa, Urban Bar… names you can trust.

Want to go further: getting your cocktail measures right

Want to fully understand why the jigger matters? Check out our complete article on the subject: Why use a jigger for your cocktails?

What’s included

In our collection, you’ll find: Japanese jiggers, 25/50 ml measures, copper, matte black and polished steel versions… All are made from 18/8 stainless steel, prized for its durability. Some models even include internal markings for extra precision.

Dimensions

Each product page details the exact dimensions, but as a general guide:

• Height: ~10 cm for Japanese models
• Diameter: narrow end 3.5 cm / wide end 4.5 cm
• Capacity: 25 ml and 50 ml, or 20/40 ml variants depending on the model

What’s the difference between a Japanese jigger and a standard bell jigger?

A Japanese jigger is tall and narrow with a long stem, usually 30/45ml or 30/60ml, giving you a steadier pour angle and clearer sight lines over the rim. The classic bell (or hourglass) jigger is squatter, wider and holds 25/50ml. If you’re choosing a jigger for home bartending, the Japanese style is easier to control one-handed.

Which jigger sizes should I actually buy first?

Start with a dual-sided 30/60ml jigger — it covers the base spirit in almost every recipe. Add a small 15/22.5ml measure for modifiers, syrups and bitters-heavy builds. Interior graduation lines at 10, 15, 20 and 45ml turn two tools into six. That pairing handles the standard cocktail measurements for beginners without cluttering your station.

Is stainless steel or copper better for a bar measure?

18/8 stainless steel resists citrus acid and dishwasher cycles, and it won’t affect flavour — it’s the practical everyday choice. Copper and gold finishes are plated, so they need hand washing and drying to avoid tarnish and pitting around the seam. For a stainless steel cocktail jigger, check the weld between the two cones: a seamless spun body drains cleanly and won’t trap syrup.

Who is a graduated measuring jigger best suited for?

Anyone working from written recipes rather than muscle memory. Internal markings let you pour 10ml of vermouth or 45ml of gin from one cup, which suits home hosts building varied drinks and trainees learning ratios. Professionals doing high-volume service often prefer unmarked jiggers for speed. A graduated jigger with measurement markings is the safer pick if you make fewer than ten drinks a night.