9014.10 - Direction finding compasses:

This HTS category, 9014.10, specifically encompasses direction finding compasses. These instruments are designed to determine geographic direction, typically by sensing the Earth's magnetic field. This includes traditional magnetic compasses used for navigation on land, sea, or air, as well as more advanced electronic versions that perform the same primary function. The core purpose of these goods is orientation and directional guidance.

It is crucial to distinguish 9014.10 from its sibling categories. While 9014.20 covers instruments and appliances for aeronautical or space navigation that are *not* compasses (e.g., gyroscopic instruments, altimeters, airspeed indicators), 9014.10 is exclusively for devices whose primary function is direction finding via a compass mechanism. Furthermore, 9014.80 covers other types of navigational instruments and appliances not falling into the compass or aeronautical/space navigation categories, and 9014.90 is reserved for parts and accessories of all instruments within heading 9014.

Within the 9014.10.10.00 subcategory, "Optical instruments" further refines compasses that incorporate optical sighting or reading mechanisms. The subsequent "Other" subdivision captures all remaining direction finding compasses that do not meet the criteria for optical instruments. This hierarchical structure allows for precise classification based on both the fundamental function of direction finding and any additional features or design elements.