Best Compass For Outdoor Recreation

Map and compass navigation is based on true north -- the location of the north pole. However, compass needles point to magnetic north, which is a spot not quite the same as the north pole. The difference between the two points is measured as an angle referred to as declination, and your compass reading must be adjusted for the difference or you may miss your destination altogether.

Declination is different in different parts of the world, becoming greater further from the prime meridian. The particular declination for an area is printed on navigational maps, and the adjustment is made by adding or subtracting the degrees of declination relative to your compass reading. (Magnetic north isn't actually stationary; it drifts in a circle south of true north at a rate of about one degree every ten years, so make sure you have a recent map with the current declination.)

Some compasses have a mechanism to adjust for declination. Once set, it automatically gives you the correct reading for your location without you having to figure it out every time you take a reading. The Brunton Classic compass has a tool-free declination adjustment. Just turn the bottom plate until the alignment arrow is the appropriate off-set from "zero." Then when you line up the magnetic needle with the off-set arrow, the compass readings will be correct.

The Brunton Classic is a sturdy, basic compass perfect for beginners. While not the best choice for creating maps or doing precise surveys, it works just fine for trails or light cross-country. It's much handier than a mirrored compass because it doesn't have to be opened up to use it. The 2-degree increment markings are highly visible, making this an easy-to-use orienting instrument.

You can count on military equipment to be durable, technical, and accurate. The Cammenga military compass is of high-quality construction and precise accuracy. It uses a rotating compass card instead of a spinning needle and a sapphire bearing for smooth operation. Induction damping allows fast settling of the card and quick readings.

Tritium is a form of fluorescence which illuminates the compass without the need for recharging in the light. The Cammenga uses seven points of Tritium for easy reading in complete darkness. Fresh tritium will last for ten years without charging.

This military-issue compass has a front sight with magnifier that lets you take a sighting and view the reading at the same time. The rotating bezel has detents every three degrees, so you can change the setting by feeling the clicks while keeping your eyes on lookout.

The workings of the Cammenga are locked down to reduce wear and tear on the go by folding down the rear sight, and it's completely protected by a waterproof aluminum case. Made in the USA, it comes with a lanyard, clip-on belt pouch, and a one-year warranty.

Here are some tips to remember when you're getting started with your new compass. Start out with a simple compass. Take a class or read an easy-to-understand book on navigation. The Silva Starter compass has a clear base plate sized for easy mapwork and 2-degree markings on a rotating dial. It's a great compass for beginners, and you can save 25% now.

Since a compass operates on magnetism, the proximity of a metal mass can interfere with your readings. Be careful taking a reading in a car or near metal buildings, as they can throw off a reading by up to 60 degrees. Anything that creates an electrical field can also have an effect on the reading. Keep your compass away from powerful magnets (stereo speakers) or strong electrical currents; over a period of time, they can demagnetize the compass needle.

Hold the compass level to allow the needle to rotate freely. Be aware that the earth has five magnetic "dip" zones, where a compass needle can point up or down. Most compasses compensate for dip, but a different latitude may cause the needle to react differently.