Best Suunto Compass For Hiking: What Is The Best Option ?
Robert Green Mar 29, 2023 7:29 PM
If you love hiking, then you probably already know the importance of having a quality compass. A compass can help you find your way if you get lost, and it’s also a helpful tool for planning hikes and figuring out your bearings.
There are a lot of different compasses on the market, and it can be hard to know which one is the best for your needs. In this article, we’ll give you an overview of the best Suunto compass for hiking, so you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
Top Choice: Best suunto compass for hiking
- SCORE9.2
- BrandSUUNTO
- Prime
- SCORE8.8
- BrandSUUNTO
- Prime
Last update on 2023-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. SUUNTO KB-14/360R G Compass
Source: Amazon
Product highlights:
- High-precision sighting compass with 1-degree increments and 360-degree range
- Durable aluminum housing and jeweled bearing for reliable performance in harsh conditions
- Luminescent markings for low-light navigation
- Adjustable declination correction for more accurate readings
- Comes with a protective carrying case
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Highly accurate and reliable in determining direction and location
- Durable and rugged construction ensures long-lasting performance in various outdoor conditions
- The adjustable declination correction allows for more precise readings
- Luminescent markings make it easy to use in low-light conditions
- The included carrying case makes it easy to transport and protect when not in use.
Cons:
- More expensive than other compass options on the market
- The compass is quite heavy, which may be an issue for some users who prioritize portability.
Source: Amazon
Product highlights:
- Adjustable declination correction
- Jewel bearing for smooth and accurate needle movement
- Fixed scale card with magnifying lens
- Baseplate with anti-slip rubber pads and rounded edges for easy handling and grip
- Luminous bezel and markings for navigating in low light conditions
- Includes a detachable snap lock lanyard
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Adjustable declination correction for precise navigation
- Durable and rugged construction with anti-slip rubber pads for grip
- Magnifying lens on the scale card makes reading map details easier
- Luminous bezel and markings make it easy to navigate in low light conditions
- Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry in a backpack or pocket
- Snap lock lanyard keeps the compass secure and easily accessible
Cons:
- Some users may prefer a more advanced compass with additional features for more complex navigation tasks
- Lanyard may not be long enough for some users' preferences
- May take some practice to use effectively for accurate navigation, especially for beginners
3. SUUNTO A-30 NH USGS Compass,Black
Source: Amazon
Product highlights:
- Compact and lightweight compass for hiking and outdoor activities
- Features a clear base plate with easy-to-read markings for quick and accurate navigation
- Made with high-grade steel needle and durable plastic housing
- Adjustable declination correction allows for quick and easy correction of the difference between true north and magnetic north
- Luminous markings for easy reading in low light conditions
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to carry in a pocket or backpack
- Durable construction that can withstand outdoor use
- Clear and accurate readings for navigation
- Adjustable declination correction for accurate navigation
- Luminous markings for low light conditions
Cons:
- May not be suitable for more advanced navigation techniques
- Plastic housing may not be as durable as metal housing in extreme conditions
- Luminous markings may not be very bright in extremely low light conditions
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Compass Features
All compasses point in the same general direction, but they may also have a variety of other qualities. A compass with more features often costs more, but the construction quality (accuracy and longevity) also affects the cost.
Basic Compass Features
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Magnetized needle: The magnetic pole is often shown by the red end of a spinning compass needle. The majority of needles float in a dampening liquid to aid in regulating their movement. Although it won't freeze, the fluid occasionally produces bubbles, which usually have little effect on the movement of the needle.
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Rotating bezel (or azimuth ring): The outside edge of the needle capsule is encircled by a ring that is used to get a bearing in the field and is marked with angles from 0° to 360°. Accurate navigation is made simpler by a lower degree interval.
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Baseplate: This translucent flat base features several nautical indicators, such as a ruler for measuring map distances.
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Orienting arrows and lines: Several fundamental navigational activities are performed utilizing the markers on the baseplate and within the needle housing.
Extra Features
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Magnifying lens: For reading map information, certain compasses feature one built into the baseplate.
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Luminescent indicators: You'll be happy to have a compass with this capability whether you're setting out before dawn or trying to go home after dusk.
Beware of accessories and digital compasses: Compass impersonators on keychains, watchbands, or zipper pulls are entertaining but unreliable navigating aids. Even a compass function on a multipurpose watch cannot replace a simple baseplate compass with a needle design.
Advanced Compass Features
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Declination adjustment: The angle between magnetic north and true north is referred to as "declination." Adjustable declination is necessary since declination changes based on your location. Until you move to a different area, you may set adjustable declination and forget about it.
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Sighting mirror: aids in more accurate aim while pursuing a precise bearing on a faraway point. serves as a means of communication for emergencies as well.
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Clinometer: enables you to gauge the steepness (vertical angle) of a slope, which is useful for determining avalanche dangers and item heights.
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Global needle: This function corrects for variations in magnetic fields and enables a compass to function smoothly and precisely everywhere in the world. A compass, on the other hand, is particular to either North or South America.
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