The use of compasses has been essential for hundreds of years. From Magellan and his voyage around the world to the modern day, a compass is a necessity for everyone that is into outdoor activities. While the new technology has tried to render the compass obsolete, you can never go wrong with having an old school compass, since modern technology can break easily, or the battery may die. On the other hand, compasses don’t need batteries and can last for a very long time, so they are very handy as a tool, since you do not need to power them like some other gear, including emergency radios, headlamps and food dehydrators.
Below, we have made a list of three of the most modern and affordable compasses that you will want to buy. We have spent plenty of hours, testing them and trying to see which one suits your needs the best.
1. Reliable Outdoor Gear Compass
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Let’s start this list with the Reliable Outdoor Gear Compass. The green baseplate has a magnifying glass, scales, and ruler used in topographic map reading. This field compass is a must-have because it is very reliable in every way. It’s lightweight and high quality, and it’s the ultimate tool for you to use while you go backpacking, camping, etc.
The Good
First and foremost, we love the price – for a very small price, you will get a compass that will last you for a very long time. The small ruler is also a very significant addition and may come in handy even around the house. The compass is exceptionally responsive and very easy to use.
The Bad
The only thing that could be added to this already-great compass is some basic instructions.
2. Eyeskey Multifunctional Compass
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If you’re looking for a more high-end compass to use it for military purposes, then look no further, because the Eyeskey Multifunctional Compass is everything that you need. It is the perfect tool for “life or death” situations that scouts, guides, and emergency rescue teams can use it to their advantage. Made from highly durable material, you can rest assured that it will not break even after being used for several years.
The Good
The small size that it has (75x57x30mm) means that you can put it in your backpack and you won’t even notice that it is there. We can’t also forget that it is lightweight, impact-resistant, and waterproof. In other words, professionals need this tool in their arsenal. Its accuracy is off the charts, and even at night, it’s very easy to read, because of its fluorescent dial.
The Bad
The only thing that needs improving is the instructions since the makers have made it only for professionals. The producer has intended it to be used by experienced users only. However, adding some more detailed instructions would also help the beginners.
3. Suunto A-10 Compass
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This compass is great for beginners since it doesn’t require much prior knowledge. It’s balanced for the northern hemisphere. It also has a liquid filled capsule that produces a stable operation. The ruler on the side is a refreshing addition, and also it’s tiny so that you can fit it in your pocket, 2.2’’ x 3.5’’ to be more exact, and it weighs around an ounce approximately.
The Good
The needle is super responsive, meaning that you can spin very fast, and the needle will spin with the same velocity, and the markings are quite clear and easy to read. Also, the instructions on it were brilliant, thorough, and detailed enough to help even people that have never used a compass before.
The Bad
The price fluctuates from time to time, so while you can buy cheaper compasses with almost the same quality, the Suunto A-10 Compas is the real deal. After testing it out, we were delighted with the quality.
