Brunton - Precision Navigation, Since 1894

Who is Brunton

Brunton has made high-precision navigation tools for over 130 years. The brand founded by mining engineer David W. Brunton, who patented the first "Pocket Transit" surveying compass in 1894 - a compact, accurate instrument designed for field survey work and geological mapping. What began as a revolutionary tool for geologists and surveyors has grown into an enduring legacy: today Brunton continues to be a globally respected name for compasses, transits, and outdoor navigation equipment trusted by professionals and explorers alike.

A Legacy of Innovation & Reliability

From its earliest days, Brunton set a new standard for practical, robust navigation tools. The Pocket Transit combined a compass, clinometer and sighting mechanism - enabling geological strike and dip measurements, slope calculation, and accurate bearings in one portable instrument. That portability and precision made it indispensable for fieldwork across mining, geology, archaeology, forestry and surveying.

Over the decades, Brunton evolved while staying true to its core mission. Their traditional transit compasses became known as the "gold standard" among professionals. Even as new outdoor-focused compass lines and compact base-plate models were introduced, Brunton never lost sight of durability, accuracy, and craftsmanship.

Made in the USA again - and in New Hands

In 2021, Brunton entered a new chapter: ownership returned to geologists, making it the first time the company is simultaneously women-owned, family-owned, and geologist-led. Under the leadership of Lauren Heerschap (CEO) and David Heerschap (COO), Brunton recommitted to manufacturing in Riverton, Wyoming - reshoring production and investing in quality, craftsmanship, and long-term innovation.

This transition means your Brunton gear is backed by decades of heritage, but built today with renewed care and modern standards. It's a blend of heritage and contemporary dedication: classic instruments for the modern outdoor professional or adventurer.

Who Uses Brunton - Professionals to Outdoor Explorers

Brunton's range serves a broad audience:

Geologists, surveyors, archaeologists, engineers, forestry and environmental professionals who need precise, reliable instruments in the field.
Outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, backpackers, hunters, and field-workers who value rugged reliability and trustworthiness in unpredictable environments.
Those who appreciate heritage instruments - tools with a proven legacy, often passed down, trusted across generations.

Whether it's a technical geology survey or a multi-day backcountry expedition, Brunton gear delivers dependable navigation, orientation and mapping capabilities.

What Makes Brunton Stand Out

Precision Engineering

Many Brunton instruments are built in the U.S., in Wyoming, using high-quality materials and meticulous manufacturing processes.

Multi-functionality

From classic Pocket Transit compasses to modern baseplate models, Brunton combines compass, clinometer, levels and sighting tools in compact, portable designs.

Heritage & Trust

Over a century's history means Brunton is a name synonymous with accuracy, durability and professionalism.

Commitment to Quality & US Manufacturing

Under current ownership, Brunton recommitted to building in Wyoming, reinforcing quality control and strengthening supply-chain reliability.

Explore Brunton at Outdoor Action

Whether you're mapping out a new route, surveying terrain for work, or heading off into the wild for an adventure - Brunton offers gear built to perform.

Browse our full Brunton collection ->