Around this time of year I tend to get asked about home bartender gifs, so I put together a small guide.
Most of the links point to Cocktail Kingdom because they are a reliable source and have a variety of finishes.
I’ve linked to the most basic versions in stainless steel, but you can opt for copper, gold, gunmetal, etc. in most cases.
Universal
I find I spill less with this style of jigger. Internal markings for smaller measurements is essential.
You can find similar molds on Amazon and elsewhere now. The key is an insulated outer mold to promote directional freezing.
PROTIP: There will also be cast-off ice that can be broken up and used in your shaker while you save the nice cubes for stirred drinks.
Stirred Drinks
I like a longer bar spoon, but this is probably the perfect spoon for most folks.
I actually use a 600ml Tall Form Chemistry Beaker at home, but I keep eyeing these Yarai glasses.
Yes, you can use a Hawthorn strainer for stirred drinks, but I really enjoy using a Julep strainer.
Fun fact: julep strainers were originally used while drinking Juleps to keep the ice away from your teeth.
Shaken Drinks
I prefer the two-tin set up for shaking drinks, but there is a small learning curve to some aspects.
More to clean, but a tiny bit easier to use.
The coil helps strain out things like mint leaf chunks from your shaken drinks.
For double-straining, when you really want to get everything out. Also useful for smoothing out egg-based drinks.