How to Open a Cocktail Shaker

Martini shakers can be tricky.

Classic metal cocktail shakers with threaded tops can be the bane of a bartender's existence. They look nice, but have an inconvenient habit of becoming stuck together. This presents a problem because with the two halves conjoined, you obviously can't make any more drinks.

Things You'll Need

• Martini shaker
• Dish towel
• Sharp edged bar or counter

Instructions

1. Empty the shaker of its liquid contents.

2. Wrap the dish towel securely around the shaker.

3. Tap the shaker against the bar, at the connecting point of the two halves, rotating to strike it evenly all the way around the ring of the shaker.

4. Twist the two halves apart.

Tips & Warnings

• Striking the shaker against the bar may cause the surface of the metal to mar, but wrapping the towel securely around it should minimize the damage.

References

• Chowhound