Vintage Leupold Cruiser Compass

Leupold & Stevens

Vintage "Cruiser" Compass | Portland, Oregon

Model Identification: The Professional "Cruiser"

This is the full-sized, professional "Cruiser" model, distinct from the smaller, lighter "Sportsman" model often found on the market.

The "Cruiser" was engineered specifically for heavy-duty field forestry and land surveying. At 3.5 inches in diameter and weighing over a half-pound (9.2 oz), it features a larger dial for higher precision and a more robust metal housing designed to survive rugged timber cruising environments.

The Township Plat: A Critical Tool

Featured Feature: Township Plat Diagram

The interior of the lid features a cast diagram of a standard Township Grid. This was essential for professionals working within the U.S. Public Land Survey System. It displays the specific "boustrophedon" (snake-like) numbering of sections 1 through 36, allowing a forester to instantly orient themselves within a 36-square-mile township. This feature alone separates this instrument from standard hiking compasses.

Technical Specifications

Manufacturer: Leupold & Stevens
Model: The Cruiser (Full Size)
Origin: Portland, OR, USA
Era: Mid-Century (1942-1968)
Diameter: 3.5 inches
Weight: 9.2 oz (Solid Metal)
Declination: Adjustable (External Screw)
Needle Lock: Automatic Lift (Lid closure)

Included Items

This listing includes the Compass Unit Only. The original box and instruction manual are not included.

A Note on Condition

Vintage Grade: Very Good / Excellent

This instrument has been well-preserved. The grey textured metal housing ("hammer-tone" style) shows only very light wear consistent with age, with no cracks or significant corrosion. The glass face is remarkably clear with no blemishes, fogging, or scratches.

The dial is crisp and legible. The needle moves freely. The brass/bronze hardware components have a nice vintage patina but are fully intact.

Please view the high-resolution photos and video in this listing to inspect the Township Plat grid and the overall condition for yourself.

Shipping & Handling

This precision instrument will be packaged with extreme care to protect the glass and the needle bearing. It will be shipped in a rigid box with ample padding.

This item is in our physical inventory and is ready for immediate shipment. We do not use stock photos. Your item will be carefully packaged for secure, next-day shipping.

All photos are of the actual item you will receive. Buy with confidence.