A cocktail shaker is a device used to mix beverages (usually alcoholic mixed drinks) by shaking. When you put ice into you cocktail shaker, it lets the drink cool a little bit quicker, before serving as well as mix everything up so it is equal all the way through. They help mix many different cocktails. They come with two or more pieces and come in many different colors and styles. They are usually made of stainless steel.It is said taht the cocktail shaker was actually used in South America 7000 BCE, where they used a jar gourd as a closed container. In 1552, a man named Cortez wrote to King Charles talking about a golden cylinder which was used to mix cacao and served foaming. It is also said that in 3500 BCE whe Egyptions would use something of this nature, to mix their fermented grain and spices to make a more tolerable taste.

There are two common types of cocktail shakers: the Boston shaker and the cobbler shaker.

The Boston shaker has a very basic structure, made up of two tall cups that fit tightly together. The cups can usually made of stainless steel but the second cup can also be made glass or plastic. The drink can be poured out of the small space between the cups to strain it or a separate strainer can be used.

Be careful when handling a Boston shaker. Don't try and crack the seal on the edge of a counter or other hard edge. This could break the glass cup and destroy the shaker. Instead lightly tap it with the palm of your hand right where the two cups touch.

The cobbler or three piece shaker consists of a cup, a cover and a cap. The cover has a built-in strainer and the cap can be used for measuring liquids. The cobbler shaker takes longer to strain out drinks and is not commonly used by bartenders.