If you love taking camping trips or exploring the great outdoors, one must-have piece of equipment is a compass. Having this instrument will help you know where you are at all times, ensuring you never get lost. While Global Positioning Systems (GPS) are all the rage these days, there are still many remote areas where these types of devices might not work.
So how will you know what type of compass to buy? You will certainly want one that is easy to carry and doesn’t break easily. Some compasses are even waterproof and can be used in the dark. Here are ten compasses you might want to consider getting.
1. Military Prismatic Sighting Compass with Pouch
If you are looking for a direct sighting compass that is both accurate and durable, but you don’t want to spend a lot of money, you’ll want to check out the Military Prismatic Compass. Measuring 3 1/4-inch x 2 1/2-inch, the compass is small and easy to carry and comes with a water resistant nylon pouch and lanyard. Marked with 5-degree increments and sighting lines on the cover, the compass is easy to use, even for beginners.
2. Suunto A-10 Field Compass
This lightweight, recreational compass is made of durable, scratch resistant acrylic that is clear for easy reading. Suunto’s two-zone system makes it especially reliable in the northern hemisphere. The Suunto 1-10 Field Compass is ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in the palm of your hand. The dual scales measure in both centimeters and inches making it a simple, easy-to-use compass that will always point you in the right direction.
3. Classic Pocket Style Camping Compass
If you are looking for an attractive, sharp-looking compass that will accurately help you with all your navigational needs, the Classic Pocket Style Camping Compass will work perfectly. The shell is made of refined copper giving it a beautiful gold color making it look more like a shiny pocket watch. The compass also contains a 360-degree angle dial in bold black numbers making it easy to read.
4. Silva Polaris Baseplate Compass
This easy-to-use, no-frills compass is perfect for beginners or intermediate users. The 360-degree dial turns smoothly and features larger numbers at 20-degree marks making it easy to read. The base plate is ergonomically designed and comes with a lanyard hole to ensure you’ll never lose it. Its slim profile, accuracy and steadiness make it a must-have for any survival kit.
5. Coleman Pocket Compass
The liquid-filled design provides quicker accuracy, even when there is no light thanks to the glow in the dark pointer. Made with tough, impact-resistant materials, a snap lid covering the face keeps it further protected. A hangtab allows it to be hung on a belt, keychain or backpack so it never gets lost. The eight directional reference points and easy-turn needle make the Coleman Pocket Compass a great compass for anyone of any age.
6. Suunto A-30L Field Compass
Even in poor visibility, the luminous bezel and markings make this compass easy to read. Lightweight and versatile, the durable compass is made from scratch-resistant acrylic. Never get lost in the northern hemisphere with this compass that utilizes Suunto’s two-zone system. The magnifying glass coupled with its glow in the dark feature make this a top choice for compass users.
7. CMMG Phosphorescent Lensatic Compass Clam Pack
Outdoor enthusiasts will not be disappointed by this light, rugged compass that has been battle-tested and proven to be an unbreakable, waterproof compass. Built to last, the compass comes equipped with a magnifying lens, sight wire and dial graduations in degrees and mils to ensure accurate readings every time. A carrying pouch and belt clip helps prevent it from getting lost.
8. Suunto Clipper L/B NH Compass – SS004102011
This liquid-filled jewel bearing compass can be clipped to a watch strap, sleeve, or strap of a backpack for convenient access and transport. The rotating bezel in 10-degree increments makes it easy to read. The Suunto Clipper Compass is waterproof, making it the perfect compass to accompany you on all your underwater adventures.
9. Cammenga 3H Tritium Military Compass
This military-looking compass is built to last and has been used in rigorous outdoor events including military battles. It has also been used by some of the most adventurous outdoor enthusiasts throughout the world. Not only is it completely accurate in the daytime, but the seven tritium micro lights make it usable in low-light conditions without the need for a flashlight or other light source. The Tritium Military Compass is also waterproof and comes equipped with a magnifying glass, a carrying pouch and belt clip.
10. Silva Ranger 515 Compass
If you want a compass that works like a charm every time you use it, this Silva Ranger Compass will do the trick. Complete with classic bezel and lid, it also comes with a one-piece mirror for a precise readout of the bearing during sighting. The 360-degree dial is divided into 2-degree graduations with luminous points making it usable at night. The compass is equipped with a clinometer and map magnifier.
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