Jiggers are those two sided measurement devices for cocktails. (Here’s the etymology.) They’re useful for measuring out the ingredients for cocktails, and they’re an absolutely necessary tool for the cultured cocktail enthusiasts.

If you’re just starting out with cocktails, there are thousands of options, and it’s an easy thing to just pick a stylish one.

But wait! Don’t do it! Some jiggers are more useful than others. And a stylish jigger will just be replaced by its more utilitarian cousin faster than you can say French 75, 75 times. (Ok, that’s not so fast, but you have to allow for shipping or a trip to the store.)

Here’s the problem with the random stylish jigger. It’ll come in some strangely proportioned measurement. A common one is 3/4 oz and 1-1/4 oz. There may be a way you can get 1 oz or 1-1/2 oz, but I’m not in the mood for a brain-teaser: I’m in the mood for a cocktail!

So here’s what you want in a jigger: accurate measurements of different varieties. I highly recommend getting two jiggers: one 1/2 oz and 1 oz, and one 3/4 oz and 1-1/2 oz. With those two and a bar spoon, you can make any cocktail you desire. Or if you desire a single purchase, here’s a set of three that will work well.

This is another cheap item. It could make a great stocking stuffer or as a part of a larger set. Happy gifting!