Many of us may think shot glasses are straightforward. They hold liquor, we throw ’em back or take a sip and set it aside. However, when hunting for shot glass gift ideas there are a few questions that need to be taken into consideration, aside from an awesome design idea, before proceeding with your purchase. Lucky for you, we are going to cover those big questions right here and right now; and of course, a few fun facts about the Shot Glass.
Shot Glasses Made Their First Appearance In The Wild West
This is a big question that frankly, doesn’t have a clear answer. While there are several theories running about on the net, the one thing we all know for sure is that shot glasses were not widely used until after the prohibition period. The theories are pretty fun though. So let’s take a look at a few, shall we?
The first theory we have is the “Shot for a Shot” based on the old wild west days. This theory involves underpaid – or non-paid – miners who would head to the saloon and trade a bullet for a shot of liquor rather than cash. This theory has sparked some doubts given the era, I’d expect that even back in the day liquor was worth more than a single bullet, even if it were just a shot.
Theory number two involves those who hunted for their meals. As these were home-based operations, it was fully expected for those consuming the meal to find bullets in their cooked meat. The shot glass comes into play when the bullets were placed in these small glasses. A practical theory, and one that has fewer doubts!
Skip the theories and personalize your own shot glass!
Another plausible theory is that the shot glass was simply named after the chemist who invented borosilicate glass – which is less likely to shatter with sudden temperature changes, think beakers, glass measuring cups, and other glass cookware. The German chemist’s name was Friedrich Otto Schott – Get it? Shot.
The final theory I’ll cover today is in regards to the way the shot glass is typically used. Throwing back a shot of whiskey and then slamming it down on the counter or table makes a loud “shot-like” sound.
Shot Glasses Can Be Used For More Than Just Alcohol
While it’s true that modern society thinks ‘liquor’ when paired with a shot glass, the fact is that shot glasses have significantly more potential than this. It’s all a matter of how creative you want to get and where your passions lie. Many individuals have used shot glasses for desserts, smoothies, taste tests, wheatgrass shots, and even uses that are unrelated to food or drink – Such as an additional tool for arts and crafts.
With a selection of shot glasses at your disposal, the options are only limited by your imagination. Having a party and want a fun way to showcase your favorite pudding with whipped cream, or ultra-healthy berry smoothie? Grab some shot glasses and fill them up!
Guests will love the sophisticated look and feel of enjoying a tasty treat in a compact package. Not only do dessert shot glasses soothe a sweet tooth, but your guests also won’t feel self-conscious or guilty about spoiling themselves with a special treat.
The Volume Of Your Shot Glass Can Vary
So now that we’ve got you thinking about dessert, the next big question is just how many ounces are actually in a shot glass? You need to know what you have to work with right? You also want to know how much liquor you may be pouring from your own stash if you’re holding a different kind of party!
I hate to break it to you, but not all shot glasses are created equally in terms of volume. Depending on the style, size, and even material you purchase, the number of ounces held within a shot glass will vary. When we turn to the all-knowing Wikipedia, we learn that only the state of Utah has an official definition of how many ounces are in a shot, and that’s 1.5 fluid ounces.
Other shot glasses may contain 1.25 ounces all the way up to 1.5 ounces. Then when we get into the double shots, we are looking at a full 2 ounces or higher. The good thing though, is that regardless of where you buy, the manufacturer will always tell you how many ounces are in their shot glass.
Depending on your country, the volume of your shot glass can vary, based on this handy infographic.
Read Manufacturer’s Recommendations on How To Clean Your Shot Glass
Cleaning a shot glass doesn’t have to be different from any other glass you may use. Just be sure to check with the manufacturer’s recommendations on if your choice is dishwasher safe, or needs to be hand washed.
For example, the above glass shot glasses are laser etched. Despite this, the laser engraving is permanent and will not wash off, chip, or fade. Meaning you can safely scrub to your heart’s desire without worry, and even put in the dishwasher.
Then there are shot glasses like the below, a stainless steel leatherette bound shot glass. A fantastic custom shot glass gift idea for wedding favors, the leatherette is waterproof for easy handwashing. Meaning your custom laser engraved personalization won’t get ruined from a bit of cleaning.
Personalize Your Custom Shot Glass Today
You knew it was coming! We love to provide fun facts and information regarding some of our favorite personalized items. A laser-etched design, text, or logo is permanent and will never fade, chip, or wash away which means an affordable custom shot glass is one of the top gift ideas on the market for all adults and for any occasion!
Personalize your very own engraved shot glasses based on the event! A monogram shot glass is perfect as a 21st birthday gift, while the classic glass shot glass may be a fantastic anniversary gift for parents! Then, of course, we have all of the beautiful custom wedding favor shot glasses that are a must-have! Be sure to check them all out!
