Measuring (or as it was commonly called chaining) with a Gunter’s chain was relatively straightforward. The first Manual of Instruction for the Survey of Public Lands of Canada, published in 1871, specified that the chain “is to be tested and corrected, at least, every other day during use, by a standard measure . . . .” Tally (chaining) pins were to be used to keep count of the number of chain lengths used to measure a distance, and shorter lengths of the chain were to be used if the full chain length could not be held level.
With the introduction of steel band tapes, it was possible to obtain greater accuracy when chaining long distances. It was still required to compare the tape with a standard measure and to use tally pins. However, additional corrections were made for slope if the chain could not be held level; for temperature to correct for expansion or contraction of the tape; and sag if the chain was not fully supported.
Images of some of the accessories that were used when measuring are shown below. The imges are not linked to a description of them or how they were used. For a description see the article: “07. Chaining – an Art and a Science“.
Chaining Accessories, Brass Tension Handle
Chaining Accessories, Thermometer
Chaining Accessories, Clamp
