The Origin of the Term "Shot Of Whiskey."

In the 1880's if someone was low or had no money at all until payday, usually the barkeep would trade one bullet for a small glass of whiskey. One .45 caliber cartridge in the early 1880's would cost around 12 cents. Most ranchers would pay their ranch-hands once a month.

1897 Sears & Roebuck Catalogue