Keg inventory: how to count and weigh kegs
By mise · Updated September 29, 2026
Quick answer: count full kegs by number and weigh the open ones: fraction left = (current weight − empty keg weight) ÷ (full weight − empty weight). A US 1/2 barrel holds 15.5 gallons (about 165 12-oz pours) and weighs roughly 160 lb full and 30 lb empty; a 1/6 barrel holds 5.16 gallons. Compare pours sold with keg usage to get your draft yield.
Kegs are the one bar item you can't count by looking. Weighing is fast, accurate and the only way to know your draft yield.
Keg sizes
| Keg | Volume | 12 oz pours | 16 oz pints | Full / empty (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1/2 barrel (US) | 15.5 gal | ~165 | ~124 | 160 lb / 30 lb |
| 1/4 barrel (pony) | 7.75 gal | ~82 | ~62 | 87 lb / 22 lb |
| 1/6 barrel (sixtel) | 5.16 gal | ~55 | ~41 | 58 lb / 15 lb |
| 50 L (EU/UK) | 50 L | — | 88 UK pints | ~63 kg / 13 kg |
| 11 gal (UK) | 50 L | — | 88 UK pints | ~63 kg / 13 kg |
Weigh a few empty kegs of each brand you carry — shells vary.
Download the sheet
Download the free keg inventory spreadsheet (CSV — Excel and Google Sheets)
Draft yield
95–97% is good. Lower means foam waste, over-pouring, line problems or free beer. See bar inventory and pour cost.
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Frequently asked questions
How do you inventory a keg?
Count full kegs and weigh the open ones; the fraction left is (weight − empty weight) ÷ (full − empty weight).
How many beers are in a keg?
A US 1/2 barrel has about 165 12-oz pours or 124 16-oz pints; a 1/6 barrel about 55 12-oz pours.