If you have spent time behind a serious cocktail bar, you have probably seen bartenders working with two metal tins rather than the traditional three-piece shaker. One of the best-known examples is the KORIKO® Weighted Shaking Tin system by Cocktail Kingdom.
KORIKO shakers use the two-piece Boston shaker format: a larger tin and a smaller tin that fit together to create a temporary seal for shaking. Their weighted bases are designed to improve balance and control, making them particularly well suited to repeated professional use.
What is a KORIKO shaker?
A KORIKO shaker is a professional two-tin cocktail shaker made by Cocktail Kingdom. Rather than combining a metal tin with a mixing glass, the KORIKO system uses two metal tins. The standard pairing is an 18 oz / 532 ml small tin with a 28 oz / 830 ml large tin.
The tins fit together at an angle to create a seal. After shaking, a controlled tap near the seal allows the tins to separate again.
Why do bartenders use weighted shaking tins?
The weight at the base of each tin helps create a more balanced feel in the hand. For bartenders making cocktails repeatedly during service, that stability can make shaking more controlled and consistent.
Weighted bases also help the tins sit securely on the bar when ingredients are being measured and added. The all-metal construction avoids the risk of working with a glass half of a traditional Boston shaker.
KORIKO vs a traditional Boston shaker
Boston shaker usually describes a two-piece system. Traditionally this may be a large metal tin paired with a mixing glass. A KORIKO setup instead pairs two stainless-steel tins.
The tin-on-tin format is lighter than a tin-and-glass combination, does not introduce breakable glass into the shaking process and can be quick to seal and separate once the technique becomes familiar.
What size KORIKO shaker should you use?
The classic KORIKO combination uses the 18 oz / 532 ml small tin together with the 28 oz / 830 ml large tin. Together they provide enough working space for ice and ingredients while creating the overlap needed for a reliable seal.
The set is suitable for preparing up to two drinks, depending on the cocktail recipe and volume.
What cocktails can you make with a KORIKO shaker?
A two-tin KORIKO shaker can be used for virtually any cocktail that requires shaking. Typical examples include Margaritas, Daiquiris, Whiskey Sours, Clover Clubs and Espresso Martinis.
As a general rule, cocktails containing citrus, fruit, dairy, egg white or other ingredients that benefit from vigorous mixing are normally shaken rather than stirred.
Which KORIKO finish should you choose?
At Bar Tools Express, KORIKO shaker sets are available in stainless steel, black, gold-plated and copper-plated finishes. Stainless steel is the classic professional choice. Black, gold and copper finishes can be useful when the visual presentation of the bar setup matters as much as the equipment itself.
For high-volume professional use, always follow the manufacturer's care guidance for plated or coated finishes.
Are KORIKO shakers only for professional bartenders?
No. Their design is aimed at professional cocktail making, but the same qualities make them a strong choice for home bartenders who want to learn the tin-on-tin Boston shaker technique.
The main adjustment for beginners is learning how to form and release the seal. Once mastered, a two-tin shaker is fast, practical and versatile.
Where to buy KORIKO shakers in the UK
Bar Tools Express stocks KORIKO® weighted cocktail shaker sets by Cocktail Kingdom for professional bartenders, hospitality venues and home cocktail makers in the UK.