Convert Fathom (fath) to Long Reed (long reed) instantly.
About these units
Fathom (fath)
A fathom is equal to 6 feet and is historically associated with maritime measurement. Its origins may lie in the approximate span of a fully outstretched human arms, which was convenient for measuring rope lengths by hand aboard ships. Sailors used the fathom to estimate water depth through weighted lines, giving rise to the practice of "sounding" the depths. The fathom became a cornerstone unit in nautical life because it fits the human scale while also being large enough to measure significant underwater distances. Charts, sonar readings, and older depth gauges frequently utilized fathoms, although modern equipment increasingly displays depths in meters. Still, many mariners—particularly in regions using imperial measurements—continue to think instinctively in fathoms when estimating safe anchoring or navigating shallow waters. The unit persists as an important piece of maritime history and remains in active use by traditional sailors, divers, and some fishing industries. Its survival reflects the enduring cultural heritage of nautical practice.
Long Reed (long reed)
The long reed is a traditional unit of length used in Egypt and other ancient cultures, roughly equivalent to 2 cubits. It was employed in surveying, architecture, and the measurement of agricultural fields. The unit's length made it suitable for laying out longer distances with relatively few measurements, especially in river valley contexts where precision at large scales was important for irrigation and crop management. Historical records show the long reed in use for temple construction, pyramidal measurements, and land division, illustrating the practical integration of human-based units into early engineering practices.