Defining the Volume and Nickname
The one-sixth barrel keg, commonly chosen for smaller gatherings and home use, represents a specific fraction of the US standard beer barrel. While the full barrel is legally defined as 31 US gallons, the 1/6 barrel keg holds approximately 5.16 US liquid gallons of beer. This volume translates to roughly 19.5 to 20 liters, making it a manageable size for enthusiasts who want to offer draft beer without the commitment of a much larger container.
This size is recognized in the commercial and craft beer industry by several nicknames. The most widely used moniker is the “Sixtel,” which is a direct reference to its one-sixth barrel capacity. Other terms you may encounter are the “Log” or “Torpedo Keg,” names that describe its distinctively tall and narrow shape. This compact profile makes it a popular choice for brewers offering specialty, seasonal, or limited-batch releases.
Calculating the Total Servings
With a capacity of 5.16 gallons, the keg contains a total of 660.48 fluid ounces of beer. This precise volume forms the basis for calculating the expected yield, though the actual number of servings can vary slightly due to factors like foam and spillage during the pour.
For the common 12-ounce bottle or can equivalent, a Sixtel will yield approximately 55 to 56 servings of beer. This count is often used when planning small events or estimating the necessary quantity for personal consumption. When using a standard US pint glass, which holds 16 fluid ounces, the serving count changes significantly.
The keg provides approximately 41 to 42 full 16-ounce pints. This number is more realistic for serving in a home kegerator or at a commercial taproom. Due to the inherent loss from foam, also known as “head,” and unavoidable line waste, it is prudent to estimate slightly lower than the theoretical maximum for reliable event planning.
Handling and Portability
The physical design of the 1/6 barrel keg allows for ease of movement and smaller storage spaces. Standard dimensions measure around 9¼ inches in diameter and about 23 to 23⅜ inches in height. This slim, cylindrical form allows it to fit neatly into tight spots where larger, wider kegs cannot.
When empty, the stainless steel container weighs approximately 14 to 16.5 pounds. Once filled with 5.16 gallons of beer, the total weight increases to a manageable 58 to 60 pounds. This lower weight and compact size make the Sixtel an ideal choice for placement in a standard residential refrigerator or a dual-tap kegerator system.