Slopemaster

A slope measurement instrument consistent with certain embodiments has a magnetic base with a compartment attached to the magnetic base, the compartment having an inner face and a clear outer face, with the inner face having indicia of angular graduations thereon, the indicia being viewable through the outer face. The angular graduations are arranged in a semi-circular pattern with a zero grade position at the bottom and increasing angles indicated on either side of the bottom. An indicator needle is pivotally suspended so that gravitational forces acting on the needle cause the needle to point to the zero grade position when the instrument is positioned at a zero degree grade. A fluid disposed within the compartment between the inner face and the outer face to stabilize movement of the needle. The volume of the fluid can be adjusted to adjust the amount of fluid stabilizing effect provided for various conditions. This abstract should not be considered limiting, since other embodiments may incorporate more, fewer or different elements that those described in this abstract.