Find HS Code and trade information for slope rangefinder

Slope Rangefinder

A slope rangefinder is a precision optical instrument used to measure distances and angles to a target, accounting for the incline or decline of the terrain. Unlike standard rangefinders that provide line-of-sight distance, slope rangefinders calculate the horizontal distance, which is crucial for accurate targeting and calculations in various applications.

Material

These devices typically incorporate the following materials:

• Housing: Constructed from durable materials like aluminum alloy, polycarbonate, or rugged plastics to withstand environmental conditions.
• Optical Components: High-quality lenses, prisms, and sometimes LCD screens for clear viewing and accurate measurements.
• Laser Diode: Emits the laser pulse used for rangefinding. Often a 905nm laser, though other wavelengths exist.
• Electronics: Microprocessors, inclinometers (for angle measurement), and display components.
• Power Source: Usually powered by CR2 batteries.

Purpose

The primary purpose of a slope rangefinder is to provide accurate distance measurements in situations where the target is not on the same plane as the user. This is particularly important for:

• Hunting: Determining the true horizontal distance to game, especially in hilly or mountainous terrain, to compensate for bullet drop and angle.
• Golf: Measuring the distance to the flagstick, accounting for elevation changes, to select the appropriate club.
• Surveying & Construction: Calculating distances and angles for land mapping, building layouts, and other precise measurements.
• Archery: Accurately determining the distance to targets at varying inclines.
• Military & Law Enforcement: Rangefinding for accurate targeting and situational awareness.

Function

Slope rangefinders operate on the principle of time-of-flight measurement.

1. Laser Emission: A laser pulse is emitted towards the target.
2. Reflection: The laser pulse reflects off the target.
3. Time Measurement: The instrument measures the time it takes for the laser pulse to return.
4. Distance Calculation: Using the speed of light, the device calculates the line-of-sight distance.
5. Angle Measurement: An internal inclinometer measures the angle of elevation or declination.
6. Horizontal Distance Calculation: The instrument uses trigonometry to calculate the true horizontal distance, taking into account the angle and line-of-sight distance.
7. Display: The horizontal distance, line-of-sight distance, and angle are displayed to the user.

Many models also include features like:

• Angle Compensation: Automatically calculates and displays the adjusted distance.
• Multiple Target Modes: First target, last target, or continuous scan.
• Units Selection: Yards or meters.
• Magnification: Optical magnification for clearer target viewing.
• Water Resistance: Protection against rain and other environmental conditions.

Usage Scenarios

• Hunting in mountainous areas: Accurately determining the distance to game animals on slopes.
• Golf course: Measuring distances to flags, hazards, and other features, accounting for elevation changes.
• Construction sites: Measuring distances between points on uneven terrain.
• Surveying: Mapping land features and calculating distances for accurate land measurements.
• Archery ranges: Measuring distances to targets at varying angles.

Common Types

• Laser Rangefinders: The most common type, utilizing a laser pulse for distance measurement.
• Ultrasonic Rangefinders: Less common for these applications, using sound waves for distance measurement (typically shorter ranges).
• Hybrid Rangefinders: Combine laser rangefinding with other technologies like inclinometers and digital compasses.
• Monocular Rangefinders: Compact, handheld devices.
• Binocular Rangefinders: Offer enhanced viewing and rangefinding capabilities.
• Pocket Rangefinders: Small, portable devices for general use.

Based on the provided reference material, determining the precise HS code for a “slope rangefinder” requires careful consideration of its function and application. Here are potential HS codes based on the available information:

• 9014.80.10.00: This code covers “Direction finding compasses; other navigational instruments and appliances; parts and accessories thereof: Other instruments and appliances: Optical instruments”. A slope rangefinder, utilizing optical principles for distance and angle measurement, could fall under this classification if its primary function is navigational. The total tax rate is 55.0%, comprising a 0.0% base tariff, a 25.0% additional tariff, and a 30.0% additional tariff effective April 2, 2025.
• 9014.80.50.00: This code covers “Direction finding compasses; other navigational instruments and appliances; parts and accessories thereof: Other instruments and appliances: Other: Other”. If the slope rangefinder is not specifically categorized as an optical instrument, it may fall under this broader “Other” category. The total tax rate is 55.0%, comprising a 0.0% base tariff, a 25.0% additional tariff, and a 30.0% additional tariff effective April 2, 2025.
• 9031.49.90.00: This code covers “Measuring or checking instruments, appliances and machines, not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter; profile projectors; parts and accessories thereof: Other optical instruments and appliances: Other: Other”. If the slope rangefinder is considered a general measuring instrument utilizing optical technology, this code may be applicable. The total tax rate is 55.0%, comprising a 0.0% base tariff, a 25.0% additional tariff, and a 30.0% additional tariff effective April 2, 2025.

Important Considerations:

The classification depends on the specific features and intended use of the slope rangefinder. If the device is marketed and used primarily for navigation, HS code 9014.80.10.00 or 9014.80.50.00 may be more appropriate. If it is a general-purpose measuring instrument, HS code 9031.49.90.00 could be considered.

According to the provided reference material, the HS code options related to 'slope rangefinder' are limited, with only the following 3 found.