BRUNTON AXIS TRANSIT

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

EVERY ANGLE, EVERY DIRECTION

SPECIFICATIONS: 2 – CARING FOR YOUR TRANSIT
Azimuth Graduated Ring: MODEL F-5012 Dimensions (Closed): 3.92” X 2.78” X 1.18” Even though all Brunton pocket transits are made to withstand the rigors of many years of outdoor use, care must be taken to ensure the
Quadrant Graduated Ring: MODEL F-5011 Weight: 13 OZ. long life of your instrument:
MAGNETISM: NdFeB rare earth magnet on sapphire jewel suspension; Compass Bearing Accuracy: ±½° WITH 1° GRADUATIONS • Avoid impacts, dropping, extreme temperatures, submersion, and scratches.
high visibility north and south markings; induction damping Inclinometer Accuracy: ±½° WITH 1° GRADUATIONS
• Make sure that the compass face is in its starting position before closing the lid.
for quick stabilization Dip Angle Accuracy: ±1° WITH 2° GRADUATIONS
Plunge Angle Accuracy: ±½° WITH 1° GRADUATIONS • To help protect your transit, always store and carry it in its case when not in use. Brunton recommends placing the Axis in its case
with the base against the snap (Figure 1) to avoid scratching the lid decal.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
• After heavy field use, or gritty conditions, carefully wipe clean of dirt and dust, and use compressed air to clean hinges and buttons.
1 – Introduction
• For any further maintenance, decal replacement, needle balancing, or repair, contact Brunton for service (see Part 13).
2 – Caring for your Transit
3 – Component Diagrams and Configurations FIGURE 1 • Only use a 3/32" hex wrench for adjusting main axis hinge tension and be careful not to overtighten. Tighten in small increments!
4 – Magnetic Declination • This is a precision instrument - handle it with care.
5 – Measuring Horizontal Bearings
6 – Measuring Vertical Inclination 3 – COMPONENT DIAGRAMS AND CONFIGURATIONS
7 – Measuring Strike and Dip of a Plane FIGURE 2: Diagram of closed lid
8 – Measuring Dip and Dip Direction Minor Axis of Hinge Rotation
9 – Measuring Trend and Plunge of a Line
10 –Other Measurements
11 – Reference Material
12 – The Axis Story
13 – Warranty and Service Information Major Axis
14- Accessories of Hinge Rotation

1- INTRODUCTION
Congratulations on your purchase of the best pocket transit in the world! The Axis Transit was invented by two geology educators in 2014 Lid Protractor
with the goal of creating a more intuitive, user-friendly, efficient measurement device. The Axis can measure planes, lines, bearings, and
angles each with only one configuration instead of the two to three required by previous pocket transit models, increasing measurement
efficiency and decreasing the chance for errors. With its novel compass north orientation and revolutionary dual-axis hollow hinge, the
Axis does not require the use of mirrors or bubble levels to sight landmarks, nor does it require the help of additional objects such as
notebooks or map boards to extend measurement surfaces. Its measurement configurations help visualize the geometry of what is Needle/Inclinometer Button
being measured, making the Axis an excellent teaching tool. It is therefore easier to learn how to use, more intuitive to teach with, and
more efficient for students as well as seasoned professionals to use in the field.

2 3
4 5
A. LID (FIG. 3)
J. (Continued) It is recommended that you slowly press and release the button THREE TIMES for new measurements to allow the magnetic
The Axis lid can rotate around its major and minor axes, and its outer surface can be placed against planar surfaces or used to extend
planes for measurement. The outer edge of the lid can also be placed against lineations for measurement of trend and plunge. The needle to accurately adjust and settle in its new direction. When the Axis compass face is vertical and is being used to measure vertical
top surface of the lid holds the protractor with 1° increments for measurements of plunge or vertical angle. angles, this button can be pressed and held to keep the inclinometer plumb bob (O) in place long enough for a reading. The needle button
can be disengaged by rotating the black needle lever on the compass base (see inset photo in FIG. 4).
B. SIGHTING TUBE (FIG. 3)
Use to sight objects for bearing or inclinometer measurements. The major axis of lid rotation goes through this sighting tube. K. HINGE TENSION SCREWS (3/32" DRIVE) (FIG. 3 and 4)
There are two user-maintainable set screws that can be used to change the friction on the lid major axis rotation. Be careful not to over
C. DIP DIAL (FIG. 3) tighten them and adjust in very small increments (1/16 - 1/8 of a turn).
Both ends of the hollow sighting tube have a dip dial with 2° increments for measuring dip angle.
L. HINGE BLOCK (FIG. 3)
D. DIP INDICATOR (FIG. 3) This piece houses the major and minor axes. When the lid is rotated around the minor axis, inscribed indicators "N" and "S" are visible on
Dip dial increments should be measured where they match the TOP of this milled tick mark when the lid is in standard configuration the inside of the hinge block. These indicate which end of the magnetic needle (R) to read during trend (plunge direction) measurements.
(Figures 5 and 6). They should be read where they match the BOTTOM of this tick mark when the lid is in alternate configuration
(Figures 7 and 8). M. GRADUATED AZIMUTH RING (FIG. 4)
The 1° increments around this declination-adjustable ring are for directional bearing measurements. This is a direct-reading compass, so
E. SIDE VIAL LEVEL (FIG. 3) the bearing is read wherever the N or S seeking end of the magnetic needle (R) meets the graduated ring. The Axis is available with
There are small vial levels on both sides of the compass block to allow leveling of the compass face when the round level s not visible. graduated rings in azimuth format (0-360° ) and quadrant format (0-90° in NE, SE, SW, NW quadrants). NOTE THAT THE AXIS IS UNIQUE IN
THAT NORTH IS ALIGNED ALONG THE MAJOR AXIS AND SIGHT TUBE IN ITS DEFAULT SETTING.
F. ROUND LEVEL (FIGS. 3 and 4)
The main round level on the compass face should be your default indicator for leveling the compass face to ensure accurate magnetic N. ZERO PIN (FIG. 4)
needle readings. This is the pointer used for magnetic declination adjustments (Part 4) or when setting the ring for dip and dip direction readings. Its
default setting is at 0° or due north on the graduated ring (M).
G. TRIPOD MOUNT (FIG. 3)
Grooves on both sides of the compass body are for attaching to a Brunton ball and socket tripod mount. O. INCLINOMETER PLUMB BOB (FIG. 4)
This bright yellow-green plumb bob is a gravity-driven way of measuring inclination, or vertical angle, when the compass face is vertical. It
can be held in place by pressing and holding the needle/inclinometer button (J).
H. AZIMUTH RING ADJUSTMENT SCREW (FIG. 3)
Use a screwdriver, paper clip, or dime to turn the large black screw AFTER you loosen the small brass screw on the compass base. P. INCLINOMETER CIRCLE GAUGE (FIG. 4)
Be sure to only turn this brass screw one rotation to avoid losing it! This black adjustment screw turns the main azimuth ring to set All around the inner compass base is a versatile inclinometer gauge with 1° increments for measuring vertical angles. The inclinometer
for declination or to reconfigure 90° for dip/dip direction readings (if this is preferred instead of strike and dip). gauge is oriented in alignment with the sighting tube, so that when the compass face is held vertically and objects are sighted through the
tube, the clinometer plumb needle will orient itself to the correct vertical angle.
I. COMPASS FACE (FIG. 3, DETAIL IN FIG. 4)
See various components in Figure 4. Q. MAGNET QUADRANT DECAL (FIG. 4)
This decal is fixed on the magnetic needle and can be used to identify the general dip direction of the lid by quadrant.
J. NEEDLE/INCLINOMETER BUTTON (FIGS. 3 and 4)
On the Axis, this button has two functions. In its default setting, the magnetic needle (R) is always locked. Pressing the needle button R. MAGNETIC NEEDLE (FIG. 4)
releases the magnetic needle and allows it to adjust to a new direction. Releasing the needle button locks the magnetic needle back The Axis needle is a rare earth, cast NdFeB magnet, which allows it so seek north and come to a complete rest in a minimum of amount of
into place or convenient readings. time. In its default setting, the magnetic needle is always locked, and can be released for readjustment by pressing the needle button (J).
It is recommended that you slowly press and release the needle button THREE TIMES to allow for accurate needle readjustment and
bearing readings.

6 7
FIGURE 5 FIGURE 7 FIGURE 9
STANDARD CONFIGURATION (closes on ALTERNATE CONFIGURATION (closes on Rotation of lid/compass face around MINOR AXIS, with detail showing where to read plunge or vertical angle on the lid protractor where
top) of the Axis lid, rotating around the the base) of the Axis lid, rotating it intersects the top of the compass face. In this configuration the N inside the hinge block indicates that the NORTH-SEEKING end of the
MAJOR AXIS. around the MAJOR AXIS . magnetic needle should be read for trend (plunge direction) measurements.

FIGURE 10
Rotation of lid/compass face around MINOR AXIS, with detail showing where to read plunge or vertical angle on the lid protractor.
In this configuration the S inside the hinge block indicates that the SOUTH-SEEKING end of the magnetic needle should be read for
FIGURE 6 FIGURE 8 trend measurements.
In STANDARD CONFIGURATION, read the dip dial where In ALTERNATE CONFIGURATION, read the dip dial where its
its mark aligns with the TOP of dip indicator. mark aligns with the BOTTOM of dip indicator.

8 9
FIGURE 11 4 – MAGNETIC DECLINATION
Rotation of lid/compass face around MINOR AXIS into INVERTED POSITION for lineations on overhanging surfaces. Detail shows where The Earth is completely surrounded by a constantly-changing magnetic field, and an unobstructed magnetized object will orient itself with
to read angle on lid protractor, where it meets the BOTTOM of the compass face. The N inside the hinge block indicates that the NORTH- Earth’s current magnetic north pole. This is the foundational concept of all magnetic compasses. The magnetic north pole, however, is
SEEKING end of the magnetic needle should be read for trend measurements. not located at the geographic North Pole. The angular difference between magnetic north (MN) and geographic north (TN for “true north”)
is called MAGNETIC DECLINATION (or variation). Declination changes with time and location on earth, so it is important to know the
current declination for your particular location in order to make accurate compass measurements. Brunton recommends using an online
declination calculator such as the National Geophysical Data Center’s Declination Calculator.
To ensure accurate compass measurements, you should adjust your pocket transit for magnetic declination BEFORE you take any
directional bearing measurements. You should make these adjustments every year, and in every new location. Adjustments on the Axis are
made by rotating the graduated circle:
1. You first have to unlock the graduated circle by loosening the declination lock screw on the compass base; one full rotation of this brass screw
will do (be careful not to fully loosen or it will fall out and be lost forever!).
2. Then rotate the main, black declination adjustment screw on the side corner of the compass block. Begin with the zero pin at 0°.
(FIGURE 13)
a. For EAST DECLINATION, rotate the graduated circle COUNTER-CLOCKWISE until the zero pin matches the declination angle. (FIGURE 13)
b. For WEST DECLINATION, rotate the graduated circle CLOCKWISE. (FIGURE 13)
FIGURE 12
Rotation of lid/compass face around MINOR AXIS into INVERTED POSITION for lineations on overhanging surfaces. Detail shows where
FIGURE 13
to read angle on lid protractor, where it meets the BOTTOM of the compass face. The S inside the hinge block indicates that the SOUTH-
SEEKING end of the magnetic needle should be read for trend measurements. Magnetic declination adjustments of the graduated circle.
Zero Pin Zero Pin Zero Pin

0 20 10 350 340
10 350 30 0 0 0
2 0 33

34
0
0° 15° EAST 15° WEST
Declination Declination Declination

MEASUREMENT METHODS
The measurement, description, and mapping of bearings, angles, planes, and lines is foundational to the geological sciences and many
other field-based disciplines. Each section below describes how the Axis Transit can be used to measure these important features in the
field. Instructional videos for the Axis can also be found at www.brunton.com.

10 11
5 – MEASURING HORIZONTAL BEARINGS 5.2 – DIRECT READING
Field professionals often need to measure the bearing, or compass direction, from their location to a specific landmark or destination. You may notice that East and West appear to be switched when viewing the compass face. Like other pocket transits, the Axis is a direct
This might be for navigation, surveying, or triangulation to pinpoint a location on a map. To measure, record, and map a directional bearing reading compass.
between two points, compass direction, or azimuth, is measured in the horizontal plane. Usually the directional bearing is measured from • Read a directional bearing where the needle points on the graduated circle, already adjusted for magnetic declination.
the point where one is standing to another point in the landscape.
• In some configurations you must read the North-seeking end of the needle, and in others the South-seeking. It is important to familiarize
yourself with Axis methodologies to avoid reading the wrong end of the needle.
5.1 – AZIMUTH VERSUS QUADRANT BEARING FORMATS
Bearings can be measured and stated in AZIMUTH FORMAT, a number from 0 to 360 degrees, or in QUADRANT FORMAT, an angle away from 5.3 – BEARING MEASUREMENT METHODOLOGY
North or South in relation East or West. The Axis is available with graduated circles in either Azimuth or Quadrant formats. Regardless
The Axis uses a novel hollow sighting tube in its hinge, instead of a mirror, through which features can be directly sighted:
of what type of bearing is read off of the compass, these two formats are interchangeable. Converting between the two formats takes
practice; the circle in FIGURE 14 can help provide guidance. 1. Rotate the lid around its main hinge (major axis) until it stops at a 90 degree position. (FIGURES 15 & 16)
2. Bring the sighting tube close to your eye, and center the object in the sighting tube. If the feature being sighted is at a similar elevation
with eye level, the compass can remain locked around the minor axis. (FIGURES 15 & 16)
FIGURE 14
3. Level the compass face using the side vial level.
Azimuth directions 0-360 on outside of circle, Quadrant directions on inside, with conversion hints between the two formats.
4. Press the needle button THREE TIMES to allow the needle to realign itself. Let go of the needle release button, and the needle will
0˚
345˚

remain locked in place.

15˚
33

˚
5. If the Axis lid is left of the compass face in LEFT-HAND sighting configuration (FIGURE 15), you should read the NORTH-SEEKING end of

30
0˚

N0W
N0E
N 15

E
the magnetic needle.
N 15
31

˚
N3

45
0E
5˚

N3
0W

30
N

˚
E
0˚ 45 60
45

N6
W

0W 0E FIGURE 15 : LEFT-HAND sighting configuration of object level with eye; NORTH-SEEKING end of magnetic needle should be read for
NW NE N6
285˚ 75˚ directional bearing.
N 75
W AZ to Q: - from 360 AZ to Q: same #
N75 E
N 90 W Q to AZ: - from 360 Q to AZ: same #
270˚ N 90 E 90˚
S 90 W AZ to Q: - 180 AZ to Q: - from 180 S 90 E
Q to AZ: + 180 Q to AZ: - from 180
S 75
S 75 W E
105˚
255˚
0
30 30

60
60
W SW SE S6

90
90
0 0E
S6

60
60
30 30
0

0˚ 12
0˚
5W

24
S4
S4

5
0W

S3

E
S 15 W

S 15

0E
S3
5˚

S0W

13
S0E
22

5˚
E

15
0˚
21

0
195˚

165˚

180˚

12 13
6. If the Axis is held with the lid right of the compass face in RIGHT-HAND sighting configuration (FIGURE 16), then the SOUTH-SEEKING 6 – MEASURING VERTICAL INCLINATION
end of the needle should be read. To measure, record, and map an angle of inclination between two points or along a slope, field professionals measure angles in the vertical
FIGURE 16 : RIGHT-HAND sighting configuration of object level with eye, SOUTH-SEEKING end of magnetic needle should be read for plane. This measurement is usually performed from a viewer’s eye height with a device that measures angle up or down to an object in the
directional bearing. landscape. Zero degrees is a horizontal angle and 90 degrees is a vertical angle.

THE AXIS POCKET TRANSIT CAN MEASURE VERTICAL ANGLES USING TWO DIFFERENT CONFIGURATIONS:
30
0
30
1. The first configuration (FIGURE 18) involves rotating the compass lid 180 degrees around its minor axis, then closing the lid against the

06

06
compass base. When holding the compass face and lid VERTICALLY, the hollow sighting tube can be used to locate the feature being
09

09
06

06
03
0 03

measured. In this configuration, the clinometer needle is gravity-driven as a plumb needle, and as the compass is placed in increasingly
steep angles, the needle corresponds to higher angles on the clinometer dial in the compass face. This needle can be held in place by
PRESSING AND HOLDING the needle button. Read the inclination where the center of the clinometer needle meets the clinometer circle
(1° increments).

FIGURE 18 : Using clinometer plumb needle to measure vertical angle.

7. If the object being sighted is above or below eye level, the hinge can be rotated around its minor axis until the object is in line with the
center of the sighting tube (FIGURES 17A and 17B). The compass face should be level before bearing measurements are made. In this
configuration, HORIZONTAL BEARING and VERTICAL INCLINATION to a particular feature can be simultaneously measured by also using
the lid protractor dial (more about this in the next section).
FIGURES 17A AND 17B : Sighting an object above or below eye level in left-hand configuration; compass bearing and vertical angle can be
simultaneously measured in this configuration.

2. The second configuration is the same as in FIGURES 17A AND 17B, where the compass rotates around its minor axis and remains at a
A
X
IS
AX
IS
90 degree angle with the horizontal compass face. When the object is sighted through the hollow hinge tube and the compass face is
leveled, the vertical angle can be read where the lid protractor dial meets the top of the compass face (SEE FIGURES 9 AND 10).

14 15
7 – MEASURING STRIKE AND DIP OF A PLANE FIGURES 20A AND 20B : Measurement of strike and dip of a plane in standard configuration, using lid to average or extend a planar
surface.
Planar surfaces are one of the most common features measured and mapped by geologists in the field. Planar surfaces often include
bedding planes of layered rock units, faults, joints, axial planes and limbs of folds, and metamorphic foliation. To measure, record, and map
the orientation of a tilted plane, such as the bedding plane illustrated in FIGURE 19, geoscientists use a horizontal reference plane. STRIKE
is the directional bearing of the line produced by the intersection between the tilted plane and the horizontal reference plane. The line of
strike can have two possible bearings that are 180 degrees from each other. DIP is a vertical angle between the tilted plane and the 30 60
90

horizontal reference plane. Dip consists of an angle and a singular direction, with dip direction always perpendicular to strike. The

60
0

30
30
complete description of a plane consists of STRIKE (bearing), DIP (angle) and DIP DIRECTION (often a general quadrant is enough).

0
60
90 30
60

Alternately, DIP ANGLE AND DIP DIRECTION can describe the orientation of a plane if the bearing of dip direction is read (see end of section 7).
FIGURE 19 : Strike and dip of a bedding plane surface that is dipping towards the right.

Bedding FIGURES 21A AND 21B : Measurement of strike and dip of a plane in alternate configuration, using lid to average or extend a planar
Plane Line of Strike
or overhanging surface.

Horizontal Dip
Reference Angle
Plane 30 60
90

60
0

30
30

0
60
90 30
60 30 60
90

60
0

30
30

0
60
90 30
60

THE AXIS TRANSIT CAN MEASURE THE STRIKE AND DIP OF ANY PLANE WITH A SINGLE COMPASS CONFIGURATION:
1. The first step is to place the top of the Axis lid against the planar surface to be measured (FIGURE 20A). If the surface is too small or 2. Once the lid has been placed along the planar surface to be measured, level the compass face using the round level and side vial levels if
not expressed as a flat surface, the compass lid can be used to extend or create the measurement plane (FIGURE 20B). needed. Do not rotate the compass around its minor axis to level it; instead move the lid around the major (hollow hinge) axis and swivel
the lid upon the measurement surface itself.
The lid can also be rotated 180 degrees around its minor axis to the alternate configuration, then the lid can be placed against the 3. When the compass face is leveled, press the needle release button THREE TIMES to allow the magnetic needle to readjust and settle.
top or bottom of a planar surface for measurement (FIGURES 21A AND 21B). This configuration is especially helpful for extending and Let go of the button, and the needle locks in place.
measuring overhanging planar surfaces. 4. STRIKE can be read off of EITHER END of the magnetic compass needle.

16 17
5. DIP ANGLE can be read off of the dials on either side of the hollow hinge, but you must make sure you are reading the dip mark 8 - MEASURING DIP AND DIP DIRECTION
correctly. When the lid is in standard configuration (FIGURES 20A AND 20B), read the dip dial mark where it meets the TOP of the
inscribed dip indicator (SEE FIGURE 6). When the lid is in alternate configuration (FIGURES 21A AND 21B), read the dip dial mark where 1. If this is your preferred way of measuring planar orientation, you must FIRST adjust the azimuth ring a full 90 degrees
it meets the BOTTOM of the dip indicator (SEE FIGURE 8). to the east, or to the right and clockwise using the black adjustment screw. Also keep magnetic declination in mind
and add or subtract the appropriate number of degrees east or west. For example, if declination is 10° E, rotate the
6. DIP DIRECTION can be approximated by looking at the magnet quadrant decal and noting the general quadrant (NW, SW, SE, NE)
ring until 100° (0-360) or S80E (quadrant) meets the ZERO PIN (N). (See FIG. 23)
direction towards which the plane is dipping downwards (the direction water would flow down the plane).
2. Then use the same configurations as above (Figs. 20,21, 22) for contact or sighting methods. The dip angle is read in
IF DIRECT CONTACT WITH A MEASUREMENT SURFACE IS IMPOSSIBLE OR IF THE SURFACE IS TOO IRREGULAR, THE AXIS CAN ALSO BE the same way, and dip direction is taken from a direct reading of the magnetic needle. If the plane is dipping AWAY
USED TO SIGHT STRIKE AND DIP FROM A DISTANCE. from the compass body, or to the right in FIG 23, read the N-seeking end of the needle. If the plane is dipping TOWARDS
1. Align yourself along strike of the plane you are measuring. The “disappearing plane” method is a simple way to ensure you are in line the compass body, or to the left in FIG 23, read the S-seeking end of the needle.
with strike; move laterally until the plane disappears into only a line from your viewpoint.
2. Hold the Axis at eye level, sighting the line of strike through the sighting tube. (FIGURE 22)
3. Level the compass face using the side vial level that is visible. Press the needle button three times.
4. Rotate the lid until it aligns with the plane being measured. (FIGURE 22)
5. DIP ANGLE can be read off of the appropriate hinge dial-indicator alignment.
6. STRIKE can be read once you move the Axis away from your eye.
7. DIP DIRECTION can be approximated from the magnetic needle orientation in relation to the plane’s down-dip direction.

FIGURE 22 : Sighting method for measuring the orientation of a plane from a distance.

30 60
90
60
0

30
30

0
60

90 30
60
line o
f sigh
t

18 19
 FIGURE 25
9 – MEASURING TREND AND PLUNGE OF A LINE
Measurement of a lineation plunging to the right. Plunge is read where the lid protractor intersects the top of the compass face. Trend
Lines, or lineations, (FIGURE 24) are another common feature measured and mapped by geologists in the field. Geological lineations can
is read from the NORTH-SEEKING end of the needle in this configuration (the N inside the hinge block is a reminder of which end of the
include fault slickenlines, erosional grooves, current ripple marks, metamorphic crenulations, fold axes, and mineral alignments from
needle to read).
flow banding or tectonic strain. To measure, record, and map the orientation of a line or lineation, geoscientists measure structures in
reference to the vertical plane. TREND, or plunge direction, is the directional bearing of the vertical plane that intersects the lineation.
Trend has a singular direction if the line is non-horizontal, with trend pointing in the direction that the lineation plunges down. PLUNGE
is a vertical angle between the lineation and the horizontal plane, measured in the vertical plane of trend. Plunge only consists of an
angle because trend already states the direction of the lineation. The complete description of the lineation consists of TREND (bearing,
plunge direction) and PLUNGE (angle).
AX
IS

FIGURE 24 : Trend (plunge direction) and plunge of a lineation (lines on the planar surface)

Trend
(Plunge
Plunge Direction) FIGURE 26
Vertical
Reference Measurement of a lineation plunging to the left. Plunge is read where the lid protractor intersects the top of the compass face. Trend is
Plane
read from the SOUTH-SEEKING end of the needle in this configuration (the S inside the hinge block is a reminder of which end of the needle
to read).

.
THE AXIS TRANSIT CAN MEASURE THE TREND AND PLUNGE OF ANY LINEATION WITH A SINGLE COMPASS CONFIGURATION.
1. The first step is to rotate the lid around its major axis until it can go no further, and it rests at a 90 degree angle with the compass face.
IS
X
2. Then place the far edge of the lid along the lineation to be measured (FIGURES 24 AND 25), parallel to the lineation. A

3. Rotate the compass face around the minor axis until level, as indicated by the round bubble level, keeping the 90 degree angle with the
lid. When the compass face is level in this configuration, the lid forms the vertical plane intersecting the lineation.
4. PLUNGE can be read off of the lid protractor where it intersects the compass face (SEE FIGURES 9 AND 10).
5. TREND can be read from the end of the compass needle designated by the N or S that is visible inside the hinge block in its particular To measure lineations on overhanging surfaces, the same methods apply, except the lid should be rotated fully around its minor axis into
configuration. Make sure you press the needle release button three times to allow the compass needle to reset itself. Letting go of the its INVERTED POSITION, and the plunge angle should be read where the bottom of the compass face meets the lid protractor dial (SEE
button will allow the needle to lock into place. FIGURES 11 AND 12). The exposed N or S in the hinge block again indicates which end of the compass needle to read.

20
21
 FIGURE 28: Using the Axis as a field protractor to measure angles between fold limbs (pictured) or conjugate fractures.
10– OTHER MEASUREMENTS
RAKE (PITCH)
Lineations along a planar surface can also be measured using RAKE (also known as pitch). This is the angle between the line of strike and
the lineation, in the plane of measurement.
1. To measure rake with the Axis, hold the compass face level with the line of strike. This can be done by holding the side of the
compass face on the planar surface, then leveling the compass face.
2. Rotate the compass lid until it aligns with the lineation (FIGURE 27). The Axis can be held in multiple configurations to measure rake.
3. Read the angle off of the dip dial.

FIGURE 27 : One of many possible configurations for measuring rake with the Axis.
11 – REFERENCE MATERIAL
0
30
60
TABLE 10.1 True Dip versus Apparent Dip
90
30

60
60

30

0
True Angle between strike and cross-section profile line
9

STRIKE
0

60 30

RAKE dip 80° 75° 70° 65° 60° 55° 50° 45° 40° 35° 30° 25° 20° 15° 10° 5°
Apparent dip
10° 10° 10° 9° 9° 9° 8° 8° 7° 6° 6° 5° 4° 3° 3° 2° 1°
15° 15° 14° 14° 14° 13° 12° 12° 10° 10° 9° 8° 6° 5° 4° 3° 1°
20° 20° 19° 19° 18° 18° 17° 16° 14° 13° 12° 10° 9° 7° 5° 4° 2°
25° 25° 24° 24° 23° 22° 21° 20° 18° 17° 15° 13° 11° 9° 7° 5° 2°
30° 30° 29° 28° 28° 27° 25° 24° 22° 20° 18° 16° 14° 11° 9° 6° 3°
35° 35° 34° 33° 32° 31° 30° 28° 26° 24° 22° 19° 16° 13° 10° 7° 4°
40° 40° 39° 38° 37° 36° 35° 33° 31° 28° 26° 23° 20° 16° 12° 8° 4°
FOLD GEOMETRIES AND CONJUGATE FRACTURES 45° 45° 44° 43° 42° 41° 39° 37° 35° 33° 30° 27° 23° 19° 15° 10° 5°
The Axis can efficiently measure angles between fold limbs, conjugate fractures, deformation bands, and any other features that create 50° 50° 49° 48° 47° 46° 44° 42° 40° 37° 34° 31° 27° 22° 17° 12° 6°
angles on surfaces. 55° 55° 54° 53° 52° 51° 49° 48° 45° 43° 39° 36° 31° 26° 20° 14° 7°
1. Hold the side of the Axis against the measurement surface, and align the compass base and lid with the features being measured 60° 60° 59° 58° 58° 56° 55° 53° 51° 48° 45° 41° 36° 30° 24° 17° 9°
(FIGURE 28). 65° 65° 64° 64° 63° 62° 60° 59° 57° 54° 51° 46° 42° 36° 29° 20° 11°
70° 70° 69° 69° 69° 68° 67° 65° 63° 60° 58° 54° 49° 43° 35° 25° 13°
2. Read the angle off of the dip dial.
75° 75° 74° 74° 74° 73° 72° 71° 69° 67° 65° 62° 58° 52° 44° 33° 18°
80° 80° 80° 79° 79° 78° 78° 77° 76° 75° 73° 71° 67° 63° 56° 45° 26°
85° 85° 85° 85° 84° 84° 84° 83° 83° 82° 81° 80° 78° 76° 71° 63° 45°
22 23
TABLE 10.2 Trigonometry Quick Calculations GRAPH 10.3
Ratio ∞ 10/1 5/1
Angle (degrees) 84.3˚ 7
8 3/1
SIN(Ө) =A/C CSC(Ө) = C/A Percent Slope ∞ 1000% 5 .7˚ 71.6˚ 2/
00% 3
COS(Ө) = B/C SEC (Ө) = C/B 00% 63. 1
200 4˚ 3/
C TAN (Ө) = A/B COT (Ө) = B/A % 56 2
A Angle (degrees) 90˚ 80˚ 15 .3˚
0%
70˚ 1/
A = Side Opposite Angle Ө 60 1
˚ 10 45˚
B 0%
B = Side Adjacent to Angle Ө 50

3/
C = Hypotenuse ˚

36
4
75
.9˚
%
40
C2 = A2 + B2

1/26˚
26.
50%
30

2/5 ˚
21.8
40%
˚

3/10˚
16.7
SINE TAN SINE TAN SINE TAN

20˚

30%
1° .017 .017 16° .275 .286 31° .515 .601

1/5 1/10 0/∞

11.3˚ 5.71˚
20% 10% 0%
2° .035 .035 17° .292 .306 32° .530 .625

10˚
3° .052 .052 18° .309 .325 33° .545 .649
4° .070 .070 19° .325 .344 34° .559 .674
5° .087 .087 20° .342 .364 35° .573 .700

0˚

0˚
6° .105 .105 21° .358 .384 36° .588 .726
7° .122 .122 22° .375 .404 37° .602 .753
8° .139 .140 23° .390 .424 38° .615 .781
9° .156 .158 24° .407 .445 39° .629 .810 TYPES OF SLOPE GRADIENT
10° .174 .176 25° .423 .466 40° .643 .839 SLOPE CAN BE STATED IN SEVERAL WAYS:
11° .191 .194 26° .438 .488 41° .656 .869
• ANGLE IN DEGREES – Shown in black from 0° (horizontal) to 90° (vertical); this is what the Axis clinometer can directly measure
12° .208 .212 27° .454 .509 42° .669 .900
13° .225 .231 28° .469 .532 43° .682 .932 • PERCENT SLOPE – Rise/run x 100; shown in percentages; this is most commonly known as “grade” in the transportation, surveying,
14° .242 .249 29° .485 .554 44° .695 .966 construction, and engineering worlds
15° .259 .268 30° .500 .577 45° .707 1.00 • RATIO – 1 part rise: # parts run; rise over run stated as a ratio rather than number; shown in grey on outer edge of diagram

24 25
TABLE 10.4
Common Unit Conversions
Lauren and David knew the greater geological community would benefit from their new model, but they also realized the limitations of
Inches Feet mm cm Conversions Conversions their garage machine shop. They decided to approach Brunton with their idea, knowing the company was best equipped to manufacture
1/8 0.0104 3.1750 .31750 1 inch = 2.54 centimeters 1 centimeter = 10 millimeters and market the new model internationally. Lauren and David retained the patent and have been able to stay involved with the entire
1/4 0.0208 6.3500 .63500 1 foot = 12 inches 1 centimeter = 0.01 meters process of design, production, and marketing of what is now the Brunton Axis Transit. They have been honored to work with the great
3/8 0.0313 9.5250 .95250 1 foot = 0.305 meters 1 centimeter = 0.394 inches Hank Iden, who has been inventing and improving Brunton compasses since 1975 in the Riverton, WY facility. It is a dream come true to
1/2 0.0417 12.700 1.2700 1 yard = 3 feet 1 meter = 100 centimeters see the Axis join the lineup of high-quality precision instruments and hopefully revolutionize how field measurements are made!
5/8 0.0521 15.875 1.5875 1 yard = 0.914 meters 1 meter = 3.281 feet
3/4 0.0625 19.050 1.9050 1 chain = 66 feet 1 meter = 1.094 yards 13 - WARRANTY AND SERVICE INFORMATION:
7/8 0.0729 22.225 2.2225 1 mile = 5,280 feet 1 kilometer = 1,000 meters Brunton warrants your manufactured product to remain free of defects during the warranty period. Brunton’s products are
1 0.0833 25.400 2.5400 1 mile = 80 chains 1 kilometer = 0.6214 miles intended to be used in harsh outdoor environments. As such, the Brunton Limited Warranty does not cover normal wear and tear,
2 0.1667 50.800 5.0800 1 mile = 1.609 kilometers 1 hectare = 10,000 meters2
damage due to misuse or rough handling or chemical exposure, and alteration. Product not registered will not be covered under
3 0.2500 76.200 7.6200 1 acre = 43,500 feet2 1 hectare = 2.471 acres
4 0.3333 101.60 10.160 1 acre = 0.4047 hectares the Brunton Limited Warranty.
5 0.4167 127.00 12.700
6 0.5000 152.40 15.240 Warranty Period:
12 1.0000 304.80 30.480 The Brunton Limited Warranty is valid for one year from the date of purchase. Products seeking warranty must be accompanied
by proof of original purchase and completion of Product Registration on Brunton.com.
12 – THE AXIS STORY
The idea of the Axis Transit was first conceived by Lauren Heerschap, a geology instructor in Durango, CO, while teaching field geology to Obtaining access to Brunton Limited Warranty:
college students. Like most seasoned field geologists, Lauren had learned how to use the standard Brunton transit model as a student, Requests for warranty may be made by contacting Brunton customer service at 1-800-443-4871 or [email protected].
then used it to conduct graduate and professional field research. Teaching new generations of geology students how to use the standard
transit model, however, proved quite challenging. Lauren kept wishing that transit measurement methods could be simpler and more Should a defect occur in your Brunton branded product which is not due to negligence or by fault or accident, and if the product
intuitive, could visualize the planes and angles being measured, and could take measurements in one configuration without the need for qualifies for the Brunton Limited Warranty, we shall, at our option, either repair or replace it without charge,
mirrors and extra objects to extend surfaces. and will pay the cost of return shipment to you (you must pay for cost of shipment to Brunton).
In the fall of 2013 Lauren began sketching out ideas for a new type of transit. Her husband, David Heerschap, a high school geology and Refunds are only available for those items purchased directly from Brunton.com within 30 days of purchase.
physics/engineering teacher and machinist, set out to make Lauren’s sketches a reality. They had just set up a home business called Real
Science Innovations through which they had already created and sold several new and improved science teaching tools. At home in their Limitation of Liability:
garage over the course of the winter, David worked to create a prototype that did what Lauren had envisioned. By the spring of 2014, they BRUNTON SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. THERE ARE NO OTHER EXPRESS WARRANTIES BEYOND
had three functional prototypes that could measure planes, lines, bearings, and angles each in one simple configuration. They called the THE BRUNTON LIMITED WARRANTY UNLESS MANDATORY LAW PROVIDES OTHERWISE. THESE WARRANTY TERMS
early model the Plane Sight Compass. They initiated the patent process, and in the summer Lauren took the new transit to several college ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.
field camps and had her students test it out. They barely needed instruction on how to use it, finding it far more intuitive and easy to
measure with, compared to the standard models.

26 27
14 – ACCESSORIES

F-3051 Tripod F-3040 Ball and Socket

F-3000B Leather case F-3060 Thimble

28 29
 Precision Instruments Handmade in Riverton, WY Since 1894
Invented by Real Science Innovations, LLC in Durango, CO in 2014
PROTECTED BY MULTIPLE UTILITY AND DESIGN PATENTS
IN THE UNITED STATES AND AROUND THE WORLD

2255 Brunton Court

Riverton, WY 82501
Phone: 800.443.4871
Fax: 303.996.3758
www.brunton.com