Q&A for How to Shotgun a Beer

As long as the beer is in an aluminum can, it will work.

It should be made about 45 degrees from the mouthpiece, as shown in the diagram in the first example. Use the side of your dominant hand for easier opening (for instance if you are right handed, it should be 45 degrees to the right and vice versa). Note, this is a fun party trick but basically it is the same as a double shot of 80 proof liquor from a can that has 12 oz of fluid. Like a beer bong, the sheer volume of liquid that you are taking in can cause a lot of problems such as heartburn, vomiting, damage to the stomach due to the acidity/pH change, and underestimating the amount of alcohol entering your system.

Yes. This will work with anything in an aluminum can, including soda. Just watch out for foam, since most sodas are fizzier than most beers.

You shouldn't shotgun a beer with a glass bottle or container. Playing with glass can cause breakage, an even messier problem when there's alcohol involved.

Alcohol tolerance varies with the individual, and alcohol content varies with the beer. You'll get drunk a lot faster drinking high-alcohol-by-volume beers such as IPAs.