1 chain equals approximately 66 survey feet.
One chain, used in surveying, is equal to 66 survey feet. This measurement originates from the traditional land measurement system where a chain is a standardized length, making it a useful unit for measuring parcels of land in surveying projects. It simplifies calculations and land division.
Conversion to Surveying
Result in surveying:
Conversion Formula
To convert chains into surveying feet, the formula multiplies the number of chains by 66 because each chain is equal to 66 survey feet. This works because the chain was standardize as 66 survey feet for land measurements, providing a simple multiplication for conversion. For example, 2 chains times 66 equals 132 survey feet.
Conversion Example
- Convert 2 chains to surveying feet:
- Start with 2 chains.
- Multiply by 66 (since 1 chain = 66 survey feet).
- 2 x 66 = 132 survey feet.
- Result: 132 survey feet.
- Convert 0.5 chains:
- Half a chain.
- 0.5 x 66 = 33 survey feet.
- Result: 33 survey feet.
- Convert 5 chains:
- Five chains.
- 5 x 66 = 330 survey feet.
- Result: 330 survey feet.
Conversion Chart
| Chains | Surveying Feet |
|---|---|
| -24.0 | -1584.0 |
| -20.0 | -1320.0 |
| -15.0 | -990.0 |
| -10.0 | -660.0 |
| -5.0 | -330.0 |
| 0.0 | 0.0 |
| 5.0 | 330.0 |
| 10.0 | 660.0 |
| 15.0 | 990.0 |
| 20.0 | 1320.0 |
| 24.0 | 1584.0 |
| 26.0 | 1716.0 |
This chart shows how different chain values correspond to survey feet. To use, find your chain value in the first column and read across to see its equivalent in survey feet, useful for quick reference during land measurements.
Related Conversion Questions
- How many survey feet are in 1.5 chains for land plotting?
- What is the length in survey feet of 3 chains in surveying?
- Can I convert 1 chain into meters in surveying?
- How does changing chain length affect land measurement in surveying?
- What is the equivalent of 0.75 chains in survey feet?
- How do I convert chains to meters for land survey calculations?
- What is the standard length of a chain used in surveying today?
Conversion Definitions
A chain is a land measurement unit, historically used in surveying, equal to 66 survey feet, and often used for measuring plots of land, especially in rural areas. It provides a convenient way to divide land into manageable sections for mapping and sale.
Surveying is the science and practice of measuring land and distances accurately for mapping, construction, and land division. It involves using specialized tools and units like the chain or survey foot to determine precise locations and boundaries.
Conversion FAQs
Why was the chain used as a land measurement unit in surveying?
The chain was adopted because of its convenient length for measuring land, allowing easy subdivision into smaller units like links. Its simplicity in calculations and historical use made it a standard in land surveying, especially before modern measurement tools.
Is the survey foot still used today in land measurements?
While the survey foot was once standard in the United States for land surveying, it has been largely replaced by the international foot and metric units in many regions. However, it remains in use in some legacy projects and legal land descriptions.
How do I convert chains to meters for international projects?
To convert chains to meters, first convert chains into survey feet (multiplying by 66), then convert survey feet to meters (1 survey foot = 0.3048 meters). Alternatively, multiply the number of chains directly by 20.1168 for meters.
What are common practical uses of the chain in modern surveying?
The chain is mainly used in historical land records, old maps, or when working with legacy data. Modern surveying prefers GPS and electronic distance measurement tools, but understanding chains remains important for interpreting older land descriptions.