Compasses independently determine the direction of the north due to the magnetic field of the earth, which helps to navigate the terrain with a map. This is convenient for remote areas where there is no Internet coverage or the ability to recharge the satellite navigator. They are used by tourists, military, travelers and caretakers of large reserves. We have prepared a rating of the best compasses, which will help you choose the optimal device that will not let you down during a hunt, during a hike, or in the development of new territories or for army needs.
Content:
Top travel compasses
These are the best devices for orienteering in reserves, deserts, forests and fields that tourists and hunters travel through. They are distinguished by robust cases, they can be expensive or cheap. When choosing important ease of use and speed.
KD351 - one of the most affordable models for the price
This is the best tourist compass at a price that starts at 170 rubles. The device is made in a plastic case with a convex hinged lid, which allows you to reliably protect the glass from shocks.
Quickly open it to view the testimony with one hand by clicking on the nail at the base. There is also a metal ring, convenient for hanging the device on the cord, so as not to lose with heavy traffic and a long hike.
Pros:
- clear indication of the sides of the world on the dial in green letters on a white background;
- the index arrow is painted red, immediately conspicuous;
- small divisions for precise determination of degrees;
- opening with one hand;
- cost from 170 rubles;
- the case is designed for splash protection;
- the lid is spring-loaded, so you do not need to move it with your fingers;
- compact dimensions 58x48x14 mm will not take up much space in your pocket;
- lightweight 18g
Minuses:
- clumsy design;
- ugly arrows with oval ends;
- weak loop back cover.
Kromatech 45 mm - with a mirror under the lid
This is the best compass for tourists, because during a hike every thing takes place and is carefully selected, and there is a mirror in the instrument case, which is convenient for everyday needs. The glass of the dial and the mirror are protected by a lid, so they are not afraid of falls and blows.
Black finish and white numbers are clearly visible. For orientation at night, they were supplied with fluorescent paint. Pointed arrow more accurately shows the degrees, when it is important for navigation.
Pros:
- cost from 160 rubles;
- beautiful dial with many small divisions;
- inside the compass is filled with liquid, and this helps the arrow to quickly stop at the right readings and saves time with frequent handling;
- the mirror is practical in the campaign, so as not to take with itself a separate such belonging;
- diameter of 45 mm is optimal to look at arm's length, without approaching the device;
- beautiful dark blue body color;
- sizes 60x45x15 mm are convenient for carrying in the pocket of any clothes;
- 28 g are easy to carry.
Minuses:
- the cap is not spring-loaded, so opening requires two hands or a certain skill in order to perform the manipulation with one hand;
- the plastic case can be crushed if you step on the device unintentionally;
- no hole for tying the lace;
- weak fastening of the cover.
Top Army Compasses
The military has to solve many problems: in addition to determining the trajectory of movement on the ground, it is necessary to calculate the distance to the object, find out the exact slope of the relief line, etc. All this is provided for in military models that are distinguished by high strength and functionality.
DC60-1A - multifunction device
This is the best military compass, equipped with everything necessary for positioning and other calculations. Inside there is a folding scale of the clinometer, which helps to calculate the inclination of the plane, and the bubble level, for the most accurate readings.
The device can be attached to a tripod using the standard thread provided. The case is very durable because it is cast from aluminum. It consists of two halves, connected by a powerful loop fastening.
Pros:
- on the lid is a glass that acts as a viewing window to see the readings of the arrow without raising the upper part of the case each time;
- a scale in centimeters is drawn on the sides, which facilitates the calculation of the route on the map;
- the lid is securely closed by the clamping bracket;
- dial has two scales in mils and degrees;
- protection of the device against shocks and splashes;
- damping fluid inside stabilizes the work of the arrow;
- dial glows in the dark;
- fine division in increments of 2 degrees allows for accurate calculations;
- on the back of the case is a scaling table that helps determine the distance to the object;
- the goniometric scale is built in an additional cover;
- it is painted in green color in order not to stand out from the camouflage style;
- the set comes in a nylon case.
Minuses:
- weight 200 g is already felt in the pocket;
- uncomfortable to wear around the neck;
- large dimensions 85x64x32 mm;
- cost from 1950 rubles.
DC602A - for the most severe conditions
This is the best army compass, which is designed for the most severe conditions. Its body can withstand temperatures from -30 to +70 degrees. It is poured out of aluminum and covered with green paint. The model is a copy of the expensive compass M73 Francis Barker.
A glass window with a lattice is provided on the top cover, so you can look at the readings without opening the device. The cover is fixed with a powerful bracket. The arrow is made in the form of a disk with four sides of the world, and it is fixed by a side button for easier navigation.
Pros:
- the shock-resistant case from aluminum and brass;
- magnetic needle lock;
- two scale steps on the limb (1 and 5 degrees);
- the damping fluid inside stabilizes the position of the arrow;
- prismatic sighting lens in the kit, with the function of the front sight and rear sight in the open position of the body;
- rotation of the arrow on the high-quality bearing provides a quick response to the magnetic field and long-term operation;
- olive color in harmony with the army camouflage;
- Nylon cover with Velcro and belt clip.
Minuses:
- cost from 2300 rubles;
- weight 230 g;
- large dimensions 90x60x35 mm.
Best wrist compasses
These devices are compact and can be fixed to the wrist. This design allows you to use them at any time with a minimum of movements (no need to get them out of your pocket, lift them on a string from the neck, etc.). They are used by lovers of active tourism, cyclists and motorcyclists.
Kromatech 30 mm - indistinguishable from a watch
This is the best wrist compass due to the comfortable silicone bracelet with transverse waves, which provides a good hold to the hand and a stylish look. The case has a wide frame made of plastic, which protects the device from accidental side impacts.
The dial is divided into small divisions in increments of 2 degrees. White numbers on a black background are clearly visible. The red arrow also stands out clearly in this color scheme. A set of holes on the strap allows you to conveniently fix the device on both male and female wrist.
Pros:
- cost from 370 rubles;
- weight 30 g is not felt on the hand;
- natural glass on the dial provides improved visibility indications;
- compact size 30x47 mm hours and 150 mm strap;
- the ability to quickly see the testimony of raising a hand;
- durable wrist strap for vigorous activity;
- outside the ring to set the desired position;
- Unisex style will suit both genders.
Minuses:
- hard to see at night.
Best souvenir compasses
Such products work as a full-fledged compass, but have an expensive semi-antique look.They are placed next to other exhibits on the table or sideboard, and they will serve as a worthy gift.
Kromatech 45 mm brass - like an expensive watch on a chain
This is the best souvenir compass, because it is made in a brass body, polished to a shine. Outside there is a metal ring for hanging the chain, which will complement the design. The large scale is drawn in black with graduations of 2 degrees.
The central part of the dial is decorated with a stylish pattern with cartographic elements and a wind rose. The arrow has a thin front part and a forked liner from a marine theme. The metal cover reliably protects glass from blows.
Pros:
- beautiful antique look;
- all metal case;
- designed for mechanical loads;
- a protrusion on its edge is provided for hooking the lid;
- large numbers on the scale;
- the arrow is stabilized by the internal fluid, so it quickly shows the exact direction;
- due to smooth edges and a hemispherical shape, it lies comfortably in the hand;
- weight 46 g;
- compact size 45x45 mm.
Minuses:
- chain not included;
- over time, the luster of brass may be lost due to the oxide film, so cleaning is required;
- the cap has no spring;
- cost from 550 rubles.
The best compasses for working with maps
Such models are equipped with rulers and magnifying glass to more accurately scale the distance and consider small elements on the map.
In sum, these additions help to more accurately plot a route and get to specific coordinates, rather than just finding a way out of the forest or returning to the tourist camp.
Kromatech 42 mm with a ruler and magnifying glass - for accurate calculations on the map
This is the best compass for working with maps due to the fixing of the instrument case on a transparent ruler with a centimeter and inch scale. The divisions are located on the long and short sides, which facilitates application to the card and saves time.
In the middle of the line there is a square window with a magnifying lens, which is needed for viewing small objects and writing on the map. All this is in a monolithic case, so it will not be lost in field conditions.
Pros:
- cost from 370 rubles;
- comes with a strap for wearing the device around the neck;
- the red and black sides of the arrows clearly show the sides of the world;
- interesting body design with placed lymphomas outside;
- two scales with different step divisions;
- white numbers on a black background and black numbers on an orange background are clearly visible;
- lens multiplicity 2x;
- with the help of a ruler, it is easy to determine the real distance to an object from the map;
- the dial is placed in a liquid medium to accelerate the stopping of the arrow;
- 42 mm viewing window diameter is optimal for people with good and poor eyesight;
- suitable for calculating distances from 500 m to 6 km.
Minuses:
- a thin plastic ruler is fragile and may break when dropped;
- the glass dial is not protected against impact;
- wearing a bulky compass with a ruler around the neck is uncomfortable;
- large dimensions 128x60x16 mm.
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