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Thanks to all who replied to my question about compasses. In summary, the general consensus is that Breithaupt makes the best compasses. This company makes three structural compasses one of which displays and records the information electronically (Tectronic 4000). The other two are mechanical. The top of the range model (Cocla) is very expensive (about 1000 USD), but the company is prepared to make offers for bulk orders. There is a simpler type (Gekom) that also looks good and is cheaper. The rumors that I had heard about Freiberger Praezisonsmechanik going out of business were untrue and the compasses are still being produced. The prices are less than the Bretihaupt (about US$ 396 - US$ 410-depending on the model). Websites/email : **Manufacturers** Bretihaupt http://www.breithaupt.de/ Freiberger Praezisionsmechanik (they also repair compasses for a reasonable price) http://www.fpm.de Brunton Compasses http://www.brunton.com/ **Retailers** http://www.mineralogie.de/krantz [log in to unmask] (this mail-order company also sells Russian-and Chinese-made compasses that are much cheaper than the German equivalents) "Miners Incorporated" <[log in to unmask]> Miners Inc. in Riggins, Idaho. (stocks the Breithaupt equipment) In Reply to Pat Meere's question. I tried the Japanese made 'universal clinometer' once. I found it fiddly and didn't like it. I suspect it would soon seize up in the field. It is not widely used in Japan. Simon _____________________________________________________ S. R. Wallis Department of Geology and Mineralogy Graduate School of Science Tel: +81 75 753 4156 Kyoto University FAX: +81 75 753 4189 Kyoto 606-8502 [log in to unmask] %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%