Using length of the shark from the movie “JAWS” as the base unit, everything in the universe can be measured in terms of JAWS. The JAWS system was first proposed by Writer/Director/Podcaster Kevin Smith of Smodcast.com as a superior method of visualizing distances. 1 JAWS is roughly equivalent to 25 feet (7.5 meters). The JAWS system is best used for measuring the expanse between two travel-able points, such as the distance one must swim to reach the safety of shore while pursued by a man-eating shark.

Informal use of the JAWS system includes parts of the fish to reference increments of the JAWS unit. For example 1.3 JAWS may be referred to as “A JAWS and a head.” Smaller units include “a fin”, “a tail” and “a tooth”. These terms, though used often, are not part of the official measurement system. JAWS may also be used as a method of converting imperial to metric units, such as feet to meters but is not recommended.

JAWS Converter was created by Internet software developer Matthew Wilber. For more information, visit mwilber.com.

Update: The JAWS system has been expanded to include weight measurement. 1 JAWS is roughly equivalent to 3 tons or 6000 pounds.