rad0, I think that you are mixing two things here. I think that the little
gyros you mention are actually Tokin and Murata pizoceramic rate gyros.
These only indicate change of radial speed (angular acceleration) and have
no zero or verticality indication.

For an inclinometer try an inclinometer (or clinometer) sensor. These are
mass produced for the automotive industry (alarms). You can also use a
monolithic 2-axis accelerometer (ADXL...) for the same thing. You can also
diy using a pendulum or half wheel in various combinations.

Peter

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