When it comes to purchasing alcohol, you may have come across terms such as “handle” and “fifth.” While these terms are commonly used, you might be wondering what exactly they mean and what the difference is between them. In this article, we will delve into the details and shed light on the distinction between a handle and a fifth of alcohol.
Understanding the Measurements
Before we dive into the comparison, it’s important to understand the measurements associated with alcohol bottles. Different sizes of bottles are available, each containing a varying number of shots:
- Nip/Miniature (1 shot)
- Quarter pint (2 shots)
- Half-pint (4 shots)
- Pint (8 shots)
- Standard bottle/”fifth” (16 shots)
- Liter (22 shots)
- Half-gallon/handle (36 shots)
What is a Fifth of Alcohol?
A “fifth” is a term used to describe a standard bottle of alcohol, typically holding around 750 milliliters or 25.4 fluid ounces. This size is commonly associated with spirits such as vodka, whiskey, gin, tequila, and rum. Interestingly, the term “fifth” originated from the fact that these bottles were initially one-fifth of a gallon in the United States.
What is a Handle of Alcohol?
In contrast, a “handle” refers to a larger-sized bottle of alcohol often found at parties or in bars. A handle contains approximately 1.75 liters or 59.2 fluid ounces of liquor. This size is significantly larger than a standard bottle, providing more servings and generally more cost-effective for those who consume alcohol frequently or host gatherings.
Comparing the Sizes
The key difference between a handle and a fifth of alcohol lies in their sizes. While a fifth represents the standard-sized bottle, a handle is much larger, offering almost twice the volume. This means that a handle can provide approximately 36 shots, whereas a fifth contains about 16 shots. Therefore, if you’re planning to serve a larger group of people, a handle may be a more practical choice, ensuring you have enough liquor to go around.
Price and Convenience Factors
Another aspect to consider when comparing a handle and a fifth of alcohol is the price and convenience. Due to its larger size, a handle generally offers a better value for money as it provides more servings per bottle. Additionally, purchasing a handle can be more convenient, especially if you frequently host parties or enjoy entertaining guests.
Storing and Portability
When it comes to storing and portability, it’s worth noting that a handle takes up more space compared to a fifth. If you have limited storage availability, opting for a fifth might be a more practical choice. A fifth is also more portable, making it easier to transport if you plan to bring it to a gathering or event.
Bartending Considerations
If you work as a bartender or are interested in knowing the pour count for different bottle sizes, understanding the difference between a handle and a fifth is important. Being aware of the number of shots each size contains allows you to keep track of your inventory and accurately serve customers.
Conclusion
In summary, the difference between a handle and a fifth of alcohol boils down to their sizes. A fifth represents a standard-sized bottle holding approximately 16 shots, while a handle is a larger bottle containing around 36 shots. Factors such as price, convenience, storage, and portability can also influence your choice between the two. Whether you’re hosting a party or bartending, understanding these distinctions will help you make an informed decision when it comes to purchasing alcohol.
