What Is This Tool?
This converter transforms length values from the US survey fathom (fath), a unit used primarily in nautical and hydrographic measurements, into the perch, an older land surveying unit. It helps bridge the gap between maritime and land measurement systems, especially useful for interpreting legacy data.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the length value in fathoms (US survey)
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Select fathom (US survey) as the input unit if not preselected
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Choose perch as the output unit
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View the converted value instantly
Key Features
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Converts fathom (US survey) to perch with an exact conversion factor
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Supports units historically used in maritime and land surveying
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Ideal for working with old nautical charts, property deeds, and survey records
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Simple interface for quick and accurate conversions
Examples
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Convert 5 fathoms (US survey): 5 × 0.3636370909 = approximately 1.818 perch
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Convert 10 fathoms (US survey): 10 × 0.3636370909 = approximately 3.636 perch
Common Use Cases
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Translating nautical depth measurements to land survey units for comparison
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Interpreting dimensions from old maritime or hydrographic surveys
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Converting legacy survey data using US survey units to units used in cadastral records
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Reading and understanding historical property boundaries and estate plans
Tips & Best Practices
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Ensure you understand whether your source data uses US survey or international units
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Use this converter primarily for historical or archival measurement data
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Cross-check converted values when working with legal or cadastral documents
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Be mindful of small discrepancies due to differences between US survey and international measurement systems
Limitations
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Units involved are historical and non-SI, potentially affecting data precision
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Differences between US survey and international or metric units might cause minor inconsistencies
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Perch is mostly obsolete and relevant only for historical record interpretation
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Not suitable for precise modern measurement needs
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the US survey fathom used for?
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It is a length unit used in hydrographic and nautical contexts, mainly for measuring water depths and line lengths.
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Why convert fathoms to perch?
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To relate maritime measurements to land surveying units, especially when dealing with old surveying or property boundary records.
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Is the perch still used today?
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The perch is largely obsolete and mainly appears in older legal and cadastral documents.
Key Terminology
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Fathom (US survey)
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A non-SI unit of length equal to 6 US survey feet, used mostly in nautical and hydrographic measurements.
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Perch
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A historical unit of length equal to 16.5 feet, primarily used in surveying and land measurement.
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Conversion Rate
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The exact ratio used to convert one unit of measurement into another; here, 1 fathom (US survey) equals 0.3636370909 perch.