ByTwo inches – it may seem like a small measurement, but quite a few everyday objects are around this length.
While 2 inches equals 5.08 centimeters or 0.16 feet, visualizing this petite size can still be tricky.
This blog post highlights 11 everyday items that are surprisingly about 2 inches long.
11 everyday Items that are just 2 inches long
1. Two US Quarters
US quarters are exactly 1 inch in diameter. Two quarters lined up are 2 inches long. Quarters slide nicely for measurement since they have a uniform, circular shape.
The dual coins also form a robust mini-ruler that’s easy to grasp and won’t bend or deform like a tape measure might.
So if you ever need to measure a 2-inch distance or visualize the length, pull out two quarters from your pocket or purse. It’s the perfect portable 2-inch reference!
2. A Pool Ball
Standard pool balls used for billiards are 2 1/4 inches in diameter. But many novelty pool balls, like those with small travel or coin-operated pool tables, are scaled-down 2 inches across.
These mini pool balls are regulation size for smaller pool games. And they roll smoothly thanks to their ideal compact spherical shape. A A 2-inch cue ball or numbered pool ball neatly represents this small measurement.
3. An ATM Card
ATM cards, called debit or check cards, are commonly 2 1/8 inches long by 3 3/8 inches wide. But the length of an ATM card is very close to 2 inches on the nose.
So if you have an ATM card in your wallet or purse, you likely have a tremendous 2-inch reference already at your disposal. Pull it out anywhere to subtly check a 2-inch length when needed.
4. Two 2-liter Bottle Caps
Soda and water bottles have standardized cap sizes based on their volume. And 2-liter bottle caps happen to have a diameter right around 2 inches.
So if you have empty 2-liter bottles at home, check the caps. Line up two of them, and you’ve got another impromptu 2-inch ruler. The cylindrical shape allows them to nestle perfectly when measuring.
See More: 10 Things That Are About 4 Inches (in) Long
5. A 12-oz Can
On average, 12-ounce cans of soda and other beverages are 2.13 inches in diameter. This includes most cans of mainstream sodas, energy drinks, coconut water, and canned coffee drinks.
While not exactly 2 inches, these common 12-oz cans are very close. Keep a few in your pantry or fridge to easily visualize a 2-inch size when needed.
6. Two Pen Caps
Pen caps range in length depending on the pen type, ink style, and brand. But many standard ballpoint pen caps are 1 inch long. This includes Bic Round Stic pens, Papermate Write Bros, and Sharpie S-Gel pens.
So if you place two pen caps tip-to-tip, you have a handy ad-hoc 2-inch ruler for small measurements. Carry a spare pen, and this measuring tool will always be available.
7. Two Hockey Pucks
Ice hockey pucks are standardized at 3 inches in diameter. But mini hockey pucks, like those used for street hockey or desktop hockey games, are often 2 inches wide.
These mini pucks are palm-sized and thick enough to hold and manipulate. And their flat, smooth edges make them ideal improvised mini-rulers. So grab two mini hockey pucks next time you need 2 quick inches.
See More: 13 Things That Are About 6 Inches (in) Long
8. Billiard ball
As mentioned above, regulation-sized billiard balls are 2 1/4 inches in diameter. But many novelty, souvenir, and decorative billiard balls meant for display are shrunken 2 inches across.
These smaller balls have the same polished, symmetrical shape as full-sized billiard balls. The tough material and crisply painted edges allow them to give an accurate 2-inch measurement when rolled against an object.
9. Three Dimes
A US dime has a diameter of 0.705 inches. Stack three dimes together, and the total length is about 2 inches.
Dimes work great for measuring since they’re uniform discs of precise, minted size. Having some handy coins in your pocket lets you measure 2 inches anywhere with ease.
10. A Single Jumbo Egg
chicken egg sizes can vary greatly. But the classic jumbo size grades out at a minimum 2 inches long and 1.75 inches wide. So a single jumbo egg can act as a natural 2-inch gauge.
Eggs aren’t quite as durable or portable as other items listed. But if you’re baking or cooking and need to visualize 2 inches, reference a jumbo egg from the carton.
See also: 11 Things That Are 9 Inches (in) Long
11. Two AA Batteries
Last but not least, the common AA battery size is remarkably close to 2 inches long. Measuring 1.5 volts AA batteries end to end gives you an accurate temporary 2-inch ruler.
AA batteries are mass-produced to precision specifications, so you know the size is consistent. Keep a few loose AAs, and you’ll have a handy measuring device in a pinch.
