Carrying a measuring device all the time is not possible. However, the situation might arise when you need one. There is a solution to the issue. You can look for an alternative in the form of a reference. There are certain objects around you that serve your purpose. In this article, I have compiled a list of things that are 16 inches long.
16 inches equals 40.64 centimeters or 406.4 millimeters. It measures slightly more than one-third of the standard 30 cm ruler. This size is common, therefore easy to visualize and apply, both for general use and for more specialized projects.
Things That are 16 Inches Long
16 inches is a length that’s substantial but familiar, the length that is big enough to feel generous when shared, yet compact enough to fit on most tables or through a standard doorway in its box. It is a very easy way to visualize exactly how long 16 inches is. Here is the list of 12 things that are 16 inches long:
Three Capped Pens
A writing pen is a widely used everyday object. Every other guy carries a pen in their pocket, especially the office-going people and students. This makes pen a viable reference to visualize measurement. A capped pen is approximately 5.5 inches long. Most brands follow this standard as far as the length of a pen is concerned. Three capped pens measure slightly over 16 inches, making them an excellent 16-inch reference.
2 Average Male Hands
An adult male hand, on average, measures 7.5 to 8 inches. This is one of the most casual and incredible methods that you can resort to for day-to-day reference. All you need to do is double the measurement of a male hand, and you get 16 inches in length. This is a great hack for quick estimates without a ruler.
4 Toilet Paper Rolls
A paper toilet roll is 4 inches in height. Stacking 4 toilet paper rolls vertically will get you 16 inches. It is one of the easily accessible measuring tools, one of the most accurate ways to estimate measurement without a measuring device. This makes them a quick, everyday way to estimate 16 inches. It is perfect if you are in the bathroom or have a pack handy.
A Large Pizza
Have you ever thought about the diameter of a large pizza? Many chains classify a large or extra-large pizza as 16 inches in diameter. It is a popular size that feeds 3-4 people comfortably. The pizza box itself is typically around 16-17 inches square to fit the pie snugly. It is yet another handy way to gauge the length. Next time you order a large pizza, grab a tape measure. It is a delicious way to visualize 16 inches.
Guitar Neck
The length of the guitar neck, from the nut to the point where it meets the body, measures 16 inches, thereby making yet another practical 16-inch reference. The reason for the said length is optimal playability and proper string tension. Besides, it allows manufacturers to maintain precise specifications. Having said that, the point is, you can use this as a reference to eyeball what 16 inches look like.
Also, read Things That are 8 inches Long: Common Items for Easy Visualization
2 Average Bananas
A medium banana measures about 7 inches to 8 inches. If you place 2 bananas end to end, you will garner a total length of about 16 inches. In case you don’t have access to a measuring tape, a banana can come in handy. You can use a banana for reference. The factors like that, such as availability, make it a practical solution for a quick estimate.
5 Debit Cards
A debit card measures exactly 3.37 inches in length. This is the standard length that most debit cards adhere to globally. When you lay 5 debit cards end to end, you get a length of approximately 16 inches. It means you have a reference in your wallet that can be used when you don’t have a measuring device.
2 Volleyballs
A regulation volleyball has a circumference of approximately 26 inches. The diameter of a volleyball is roughly 8 inches. So, placing two volleyballs side by side measures about 16 inches. On a playfield, if the need arises to measure a distance of 16 inches and you have two volleyballs available, your job is done. You just need to get hold of two volleyballs and place them side by side.
Width of Two A4 Papers
The width of an A4 paper is 8.3 inches. You can use two A4 sheets of paper to estimate the length and width of an object without using a measuring tape. This technique is a standard method for visual measurement. It is important to note that this method is not as common in the US as it is in other parts of the world, but it remains a viable option for anyone needing a rough estimate.
2 Standard Pencil
A pencil is one of the commonly used items in schools, homes, and offices. Have you ever thought about the length of an unsharpened pencil? It is quite perfect when you need a quick 8-inch measurement but don’t have a ruler on hand. Placing two pencils end to end takes you to 16 inches, which is perfect to eyeball 16 inches in length.
2 Standard Bricks
Brick manufacturers across the United States follow a standard length. A brick typically measures 8 inches. Many tape measures and folding rulers have special brick spacing marks precisely because masons use brick lengths for quick layout. Placing two bricks end to end makes a perfect 16-inch reference. Next time you are near a brick wall or stack, line up two, and you have got yourself a solid 16-inch reference.
Skateboard
The distance between the inner mounting holes of the trucks of a Skateboard is 16 inches. This measurement has been the industry standard for years now. The reason for the said length is the stability that it brings in riding styles, from street skating to transition riding. In case you are looking for a 16-inch reference Skateboard is a viable option that you can opt for visualization.
Steering Wheel
The steering wheel is yet another everyday object that forms a perfect 16-inch reference. The steering wheel measures approximately 16 inches in diameter. This has been standard size followed by all the manufacturers across the board. If you are in the driver’s seat and are looking for a reference, you already have a 16-inch reference in your hands.
Also, read Things That are 9 Inches Long: 12 Things Exactly (or Almost) 9 Inches Long!
Conclusion
So, it has come to light that there are several things that can be used as a reference to measure 16 inches. Whether you are estimating the size of a laptop screen, a steering wheel, a skateboard, or even a very large pizza, these are all the things that make 16 inches reference.
In this article, I have prepared a list of 12 things that are 16 inches long. So the next time you need to estimate 16 inches, whether for furniture, flooring, tech, or anything else, just close your eyes and picture that glorious pizza. Go through the article to know more about it.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long is 16 inches?
16 inches equals 40.64 centimeters or 406.4 millimeters. It measures slightly more than one-third of the standard 30 cm ruler.
2. Are there any common kitchen items around 16 inches long?
Yes. Many large cutting boards and pizza peels measure close to 16 inches, especially the handle-plus-blade length on a pizza peel. Some baking sheets or oven trays also have a 16-inch dimension.
3. What sports equipment is typically 16 inches?
Skateboard measures 16 inches. The distance between the inner mounting holes of the trucks of a Skateboard is 16 inches.