Caliber
Caliber is a term used to describe the internal diameter of a cylindrical object, most commonly the inside diameter of a gun barrel or firearm bore. It is typically measured in inches or millimeters.
In firearms, caliber indicates the diameter of the bullet or projectile that can be fired from the barrel (e.g., a .45 caliber means the barrel’s internal diameter is 0.45 inches).
In other contexts, such as engineering or piping, caliber can refer more generally to the diameter or thickness of tubes or cylindrical objects.
Key points:
Caliber = internal diameter of a barrel or tube
Measured in inches or millimeters
Important for firearm specifications and ammunition compatibility
Also used in engineering and manufacturing
Caliber is crucial for matching ammunition to firearms and for defining performance characteristics like velocity and accuracy.
Fingerbreadth
A fingerbreadth is a traditional unit of length based on the width of a human finger, often used in historical and informal measurements. It typically measures about ¾ inch (approximately 19 millimeters), though it can vary depending on the person and context.
Fingerbreadths were commonly used in tailoring, medicine, and everyday life to estimate small lengths before standardized units became widespread.
Key points:
Approximately ¾ inch (19 mm)
Based on the width of a finger
Used in historical measurements and everyday approximations
Part of body-based units like handbreadth and span
Fingerbreadth remains a handy reference for rough estimates even today.
No conversions available for length.