Topographic Abney Level
- Graduated in degrees (0-90°) in both directions.
- Venire reading of 10 mins Slope scale 1:1 and 1:10.
- Padded belt-loop case included.
- Tube Length is 5 ⅛ inches long.
- Radius arc of 1 ⅛ in.
Topographic Abney Level
The Topographic Abney Level is a handheld surveying instrument that combines a fixed sighting tube, spirit level, and protractor scale to measure slopes, elevations, and grades accurately. Its internal mirror allows the user to align the bubble with the cross‑hair while sighting a distant target enabling quick and reliable readings of incline or decline. Commonly graduated in degrees, percent grade, and even chainage correction (along the length of a surveyor’s chain), it allows real-time computation of horizontal distance from slope distance using simple trigonometry. Lightweight and portable often small enough to fit in a coat pocket or mount on a Jacob’s staff it’s ideal for rapid field work. The instrument remains widely used in topographic surveying, forestry (e.g. tree height measurements), geology, and mine-road grading for its simplicity and reliability. Even today, it offers efficient slope assessment without needing power or advanced equipment, making it a preferred tool where simplicity and ruggedness are key.
