Okay, almost done laughing now...
Sorry, who can resist british humor.
First, the third degree... Any device or component that could in anyway be used for evil, terroristic intent comes into question. We all have to do our part, as they are very sneaky little bastards, that don't even care if they blow themselves up. Maybe your project isn't a weapon of mass destruction, but it might be twisted into something horrific, so we are a little cautious (paranoid for some).
The tilt switch... Well, it would help if we knew what you intent to use it in, there are many different choices and applications. There are mercury tilt switches like in thermostats. But you mentioned something about accuracy within a few degrees. How many axis of motion, and what range of movement? A metal ball bearing in a cage could give you directions a degrees. There are tilt sensors for car alarms, but I think vibration sensors are more common.
This is a pretty good forum, lot of good information, often amusing. Although, it's usually cultural differences that spark arguements, occasionally people of the same country have a difference of opinion. Just try not to hold a grudge, most of these people are reasonably civilized (except some canadians, but then they don't see any harm in moose-sodomy, as a sport).