in need of a durable..accurate..light weight compass... go!

Silva or Suunto have a lot of different options.

At least they did, last time I bought a compass.

I agree the Suunto and Silva seem to be the leaders of the pack. I have always used Silvas myself but, would have no hesitation with a Suunto. My Silva Ranger Ultra never let me down in all of my forestry schooling and training, as well as several hunting trips to Colorado. I am not well versed in all of the current models out from the two companies but I know Silva still makes Ranger models. Just my 2 cents worth. Good luck.

is there a model that you recommend?

The basic one.

Suunto MC2 or 2G

Silva Ranger for the win!

I keep a Suunto w/ mirror and all the goodies in my pack but use a Suunto M-9 wrist compass the most.


mike r

I prefer a Silva Ranger model too. I like a compass with the flip open lid and mirror to help me achieve the most accurate sighting lines. Mostly in the event of traversing off of a topo map. Depends upon what exactly you are trying to achieve with your compass I guess. Practicing lots with whatever compass you choose is probably the first and foremost.

I agree. Never needed more than the basic baseplate compass.

They're almost weightless so I carry 2...and hope they both point the same direction.

I offer the same advice as Smokepole and Rock Chuck.

Simple is better. I never need the advanced capabilities of a fancy compass. I just want to know which way is north so I can orient my USGS map.

You can buy basic Silva and Suunto compasses at just about any sporting goods store.

KC

I have one of the older versions and agree. Haven't heard much good about the newer versions but also haven't used one. I have 5-6 compasses now so really don't see the need to try any others.......

Currently I like Suunto. Silva moved some production to China, so you need to make sure where the model you want is made.

A simple baseplate compass is all I use.

Get and carry two basic ones. Don't want to be doubting your one when you get turned around (lost).

I still use either of the old issue compass' as my primary and the button compass in my kit for 'oh crap' moments.


There may be something better now but I doubt it.

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Marathon wrist compass on at all times in back country so I stay oriented. Way better gimbals than Suunto or Silva. Any old base plate model to orient topo map.

I like one where you can dial in the magnetic declination - it's 30 deg. in my area.

Suunto for myself as well. Silva's as a second choice.

Declination is nice and in winter I like the inclinometer for measuring slope angle for avalanche route planning. A good accurate compass is the best value for weight that you can carry in the back country.


mike r

Dude. You don't need a compass, you need to hang out in less steep terrain.

You NEED to know WHEN to hang out in less steep terrain.

Inclinometer is a crucial piece of equipment in assessing / traveling avalanche terrain. Your rangefinder has one.

I picked up one of the Brunton units a few years ago but just didn't like using it, when my brother turns up on my doorstep I shall probably give it to him to play with.

A nice thing but heavy.

No, you NEED to look for the little SMILEY FACE so you'll know when a comment is tongue in cheek....

Good idea, smokespoles...keep yourself out of the mountains in winter.

Whatever you say mighty Joe.