If you’re in a rush, I’ll prevent a while by recommending the Suunto MC-2G. It’s extremely dependable and my private day by day driver.
Going mountaineering? Then you NEED a compass. There’s no ifs, ands, or buts about it!
Your trusty compass will get you out of a pinch when your telephone or GPS system dies. Or, if you get misplaced and don’t know which option to level the map. In dozens of conditions, this device might be a literal life-saver, and it prices about the identical as a six-pack of beer.
But, how do you discover the perfect compass for mountaineering? That’s the place I are available in…
Best Compass For Hiking: Our Top Recommendations
Suunto MC-2G Compass
Suppose you’ve already learn my mountaineering watch shopping for information. In that case, you’re seemingly already accustomed to the advantages of Suunto merchandise. Despite not having the flashiest aesthetic, the Suunto MC 2G is the compass I take advantage of most frequently for just a few causes.
First off, the compass’ card-like form makes it tremendous transportable since you possibly can simply match it into even the tightest of pockets. I’m not one to put on skinny denims typically, but when I have been, I’d choose the MC-2G.
Another less-fashionable motive to go for this compass is that it’s exact regardless of the place you’re on the planet. Why? Because its declination adjustment device (extra on that later) provides you correct instructions all over the place.
Finally, its luminous rotating bezel (in any other case often called an azimuth ring) additionally makes this compass a breeze to learn at midnight.
The further sighting gap is helpful too, but it surely isn’t an enormous determinant for informal campers who want it for on a regular basis use.
Lastly, it’s not a game-changer, however the built-in strap helps me carry it with none fuss.
All these components put collectively make this my #1 choose.
Pros:
- Portable card-like kind
- Reliable even underneath magnetic variation
- Luminous rotating bezel for nighttime use
- Extra sighting gap
- Built-in strap
Cons:
- Aesthetic isn’t as flashy as different merchandise
Best for: campers in search of a dependable compass that don’t thoughts fundamental designs.
Eyeskey Compass
If the Suunto MC 2G is your performance-centric OnePlus Nord, then this survival compass from Eyeskey is the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra. You know, the kind of product that tells you kind and performance aren’t mutually unique.
It is available in each inexperienced and black, which realistically covers most colour preferences within the mountaineering world. I’m unsure about you, however I can’t recall the final time I noticed a purple hatchet getting used anyway.
Aside from the aesthetics, the development of this lensatic compass is completely on level with the aluminum alloy chassis.
It’s additionally waterproof, so you would maintain this in your pocket whereas wading via the waters with out having to fret about any injury occurring.
The dial is luminous, and the bezel rotates freely. Therefore, the studying expertise is clearly prime of the road with this survival compass (generally known as a army compass).
While it’s not precisely a con, it’s best to word that the phosphorescent materials on the bezel takes some time to cost earlier than it glows. Don’t anticipate the compass to shine brilliant if it’s spent the complete day inside your backpack, because it hasn’t been uncovered to sufficient mild.
Pros:
- Great design
- Two colour choices
- Aluminum alloy chassis for optimum sturdiness
- Waterproof
- Luminous rotating bezel
Cons:
- Some patrons have had points with magnetic declination
Best for: campers who want a lensatic compass that may take a beating and nonetheless look good as new.
TruArc 3 Compass
Type: Analog | Increments: 2 levels | Dimensions: 6.69 x 2.6 x 0.75 in | Weight (oz): 1.1 oz
If you’ve simply come from my hatchet breakdown article, you realize that we love merchandise which are made within the USA. The TruArc 3 is our suggestion for patriots making an attempt to maintain their procuring home.
Besides being made within the USA, why would you need this compass? For one, its bare-bones design makes it a very good choose for inexperienced persons trying to construct up their navigation expertise with out being overwhelmed by a extra advanced interface. Some newbies even use this as a learner compass earlier than upgrading to a extra superior compass just like the Eyeskey or one thing comparable.
Despite being “born in the USA,” the TruArc 3 continues to be pleasant to foreigners because it has each inch and centimeter scales. This function slipped underneath my radar till my pal from London got here alongside on a tenting journey. We obtained to joke in regards to the metric/US measurement programs and had a very good snicker.
Beyond its versatility, I’m a giant fan of the shape that this compass sports activities. It weighs simply over a single ounce and has completely minuscule dimensions of two.5″ x 3.5″ — nearly equal to a normal bank card.
Pros:
- American-made
- Simple design makes it straightforward to make use of and a very good learner compass
- Imperial and metric scales
- The dimension of a bank card
Cons:
- No cardinal instructions on prime of the bezel
Best for: rookie navigators who need one thing small and easy to get them within the groove.
Coghlan’s Map Compass
Type: Analog | Increments: 1 levels | Dimensions: 4.5 x 3.1 x 0.9 in | Weight (oz): 1 oz
Next up, we have now the map compass from Coghlan’s.
This specific mannequin is well-known for being an reasonably priced compass possibility. I’ll inform you proper now that the majority campers don’t use this as their primary compass. It’s usually extra of a backup that they carry round.
It may appear extreme to personal a second compass, however there’s no actual draw back since they price so little, and weigh even much less. If you lose or break your main compass, then having a contingency plan ensures you gained’t get misplaced.
The whole base is see-through, making it the proper compass for map studying because it doesn’t impede any data. Couple the semi-transparent chassis with the magnifying lens, and also you’re all set.
Its pointer is luminous too, which implies that navigating at evening gained’t be a problem. If your present compass doesn’t glow at midnight, then assigning the Coghlan’s as your nocturnal navigator can be smart.
However, this mannequin is fairly inclined to interference from ferrous objects, so be aware of that.
Pros:
- Very low-cost compass
- Semi-transparent chassis and magnifying lens assist you learn maps
- Serves as a superb backup compass or nocturnal navigator
- Comes with a nylon wire for straightforward carrying
Cons:
- Vulnerable to interference from ferrous metals
Best for: campers in search of an reasonably priced secondary compass.
Check Price at Sportman’s Warehouse
SUUNTO A-10 Compass
Type: Analog | Increments: 2 levels | Dimensions: 4.09 x 2.2 x 0.39 in | Weight (oz): 1.6 oz
We began this text off with a Suunto compass, so it appears solely becoming that we shut off with one too. This baseplate compass is available in an much more compact package deal because it doesn’t have a plastic shroud with a sighting mirror on prime, but nonetheless retains the cardboard form of the MC-2G.
Despite its spartan aesthetic, the development of this compass is definitely fairly spectacular. The magnetized needle is made out of high-grade metal. It has a high-quality jewel bearing, so that you gained’t have to fret about it not being sturdy sufficient. It’s primarily the iPhone 20-XR-z (does that exist but?) of compasses.
Its snap-lock lanyard attachment level is a delicate function, little doubt, however one which I like quite a bit. This makes it really easy to pop the strap off if you need to use the compass to learn your map.
Another small function I preferred is that in contrast to different liquid-filled compasses, this one had no bubbles. This is a pleasant contact, giving me confidence in its accuracy.
The primary downside is that this isn’t a worldwide compass like the primary Suunto mannequin we checked out. It’s solely balanced within the Northern Hemisphere, so these south of the equator could need to search for one other compass.
Pros:
- Even extra compact than the Suunto MC-25
- Durable parts
- Has a snap-lock lanyard attachment level
- Bubble-free
Cons:
- Not appropriate to be used within the Southern Hemisphere
Best for: north-of-the-equator campers in search of a sturdy, compact compass.
How To Choose The Right Compass For You
Head to any outside retailer, and also you’re certain to seek out dozens of compasses obtainable to you. Even on this article, there are 5 improbable compasses that it’s a must to select from. So, how do you make that alternative?
If you’re nonetheless on the fence, let’s undergo just a few components that simply may assist you make up your thoughts.
Glowing Indicators
If you’re like me and begin your hikes early (to catch the attractive dawn), then investing in a glowing compass might be worthwhile.
On the opposite hand, I hear many nature fans complain that these phosphorescent compasses don’t glow brilliant sufficient. Their criticism is legitimate, however I’ve a fast workaround.
When my compass wants an additional cost to begin lighting my method, I often shine a excessive lumen flashlight on it for just a few seconds, which does the trick. This technique is likely to be crude, but it surely will get my compass brilliant sufficient for me to learn the instructions in a snap.
Durability
When you spend cash on any piece of mountaineering gear, it ought to ideally have the sturdiness to final you years. This is much more key when the merchandise in query is accountable for safely getting you again to your campsite.
The A-10 NH from Suunto is a concrete instance of dependable building because of its jewel bearing and high-grade metal needle. The extra cash you spend on shopping for one thing well-built is nothing in comparison with the trouble and dangers of getting misplaced within the woods.
Liquid Freezing Point
Compasses that comprise liquid are genuinely extra correct, however it’s a must to be cautious of its freezing level. Some liquid compasses are extra inclined to freezing, and that is completely unacceptable. A top quality compass ought to learn precisely, even in essentially the most frigid temperatures.
So, verify your compass’ freezing level earlier than heading out to discover the great Alaskan tundra or someplace equally chilly.
I’ve personally skilled some improbable journeys that I might’ve by no means gone on if I averted colder environments. Having gear that may stare low temperatures within the face with out batting a watch provides you the liberty to discover additional than you’d in any other case be capable to.
Global Needles
Campers who solely traverse a single hemisphere could not see the necessity for a so-called international needle. However, seasoned vacationers and orienteering fans who journey all all over the world will need the flexibility of a worldwide compass.
There’s nothing flawed with merchandise tailor-made to land navigation within the northern or southern hemisphere, so long as you realize what you’re stepping into. I additionally know some hikers preferring to have two compasses — one for every hemisphere. Either method, be ready and knowledgeable, and also you’ll be high-quality with no matter setup you select.
Adjustable Declination
Adjustable declination is a function that solely issues if you happen to want exact compass navigation.
What is declination?
Put merely, it’s a calibration issue used to regulate for the distinction between magnetic north and true north. For newbie vacationers, this shouldn’t be too essential. Still, tough and prepared explorers ought to have this to maintain their navigation exact.
For an in depth clarification, take a look at my final information on easy methods to use a compass.
Compass Comparison Chart
Compass Best Practices
Here are a few issues to keep in mind when you personal a compass:
Cautious Carrying
Be conscious of the place you carry your compass. I’d advise towards storing it in the identical bag as digital gadgets and metallic instruments to make sure it doesn’t get miscalibrated.
Using neck lanyards or conserving it in an exterior pocket is often a safer wager.
Testing Alignments
You shouldn’t wait till you’re in the course of a jungle to verify in case your compass readings are nonetheless correct.
Test the calibration every so often to see in case your compass must be adjusted and even changed. This will prevent from stepping into sticky conditions.
Check For Bubbles
As I discussed earlier, some compasses with liquid may have bubbles trapped contained in the lens. This can impede the free motion of the compass needle, thus resulting in inaccurate readings.
It’s finest to return any unit with this downside and get a substitute from the vendor.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Wiping down your compass after a aggravating day of use can actually prolong its lifespan.
Get as a lot dust and sand off the baseplate to maintain all of the measurements simply readable.
It solely takes a minute or two to take care of your compass, but it surely’ll repay in the long term.
Our Verdict
We’ve checked out some really spectacular compasses all through this text. I genuinely imagine that there’s one thing for everybody if you have a look at all of the choices above. If you ask me personally, I’d say that the Suunto MC-2G is the perfect choose.
It’s transportable, straightforward to make use of at evening, and might stand as much as magnetic interference with out breaking a sweat.
There’s a motive it’s been in my EDC pack for years. It’s even Suunto’s longest-running mannequin, which simply goes to point out how efficient it’s been at serving customers.
Ultimately, the MC-2G ticks many of the containers, so there’s no motive to not get it.
Be certain to offer your compass of alternative some TLC to maintain it in near-mint situation for years, and even a long time to come back.
Well, that’s all for now people. Stay wholesome, and maintain mountaineering!