On Sunday, July 29, 2012 3:26:18 PM UTC-4, Novel8 wrote:
Why would they rate them the same 16 gauge? I wouldn't even attempt to buy that one.

Because it's the diameter of the WIRE, not the thickness of the insulation, that determines gauge.

Indoor cords don't need as much insulation because they are not being dragged around on sharp stones or whatever other obstacles may be out in the yard.