Backpacking can be extremely enjoyable; this is especially true if you’ve got the right gear. Having the ability to map and navigate a course is critical when you’re out in the wilderness. In order to do this, you’ve got to have a top-notch backpacking compass. The best backpacking compass will be durable, reliable, accurate, and easy to use.
Finding the best hiking compass may seem like a daunting process. That’s why we have created this comprehensive list of the 10 best backpacking compasses available in 2018. We have rated these items based on material construction, consumer ratings, design utility, suitability, etc.
Top 5 Backpacking Compasses – Editor’s Pick
For the top 5 compasses on our list, we have included some additional product specifications and information. Take a look to easily see how these products stack up side by side.
| Product Name | Weight | Size | Type | Material | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eyeskey Multifunction Military Army Aluminum Alloy Compass | 6.2 oz | 2.75 x 2 x 0.98 in / Lanyard: 18 in | Military compass | Aluminum alloy | 5/5 stars |
| SUUNTO A-10 Recreational Field Compass | 2.88 oz | 11.5 x 5.2 x 1 in | Recreational compass | Scratch-resistant acrylic | 5/5 stars |
| Suunto MC-2 Compass | 2.56 oz | 1 x 0.3 x 1.6 in | Precision mirror compass | Acrylic | 4.5/5 Stars |
| Brunton TruArc 3 Compass | 1.12 oz | 2.5 x 0.5 x 3.5 in | Entry-level compass | N/A | 4/5 Stars |
| SUUNTO A-30 Compass | 1.1 oz | 2.2 x 4.3 in | Lightweight, versatile compass | Scratch-resistant acrylic | 4/5 Stars |
10. Eaggle Classic Compass
This is an exquisite and reliable compass that is simultaneously elegant and utility friendly. It’s a no-nonsense option that features an attractive engraved design and smooth closing mechanisms.
9. Proster Professional Compass
With an easy to read face and durable design, this compass can be used in many different situations. It has lots of extras and helpful features. A true sighting optic is included with this model. The lens lets you get a direct read on the internal compass card. You can also measure the different height slopes of rough terrain using its built-in clinometer.
8. SE CC4580 Military Lensatic and Prismatic Sighting Survival Emergency Compass
Durable and loaded with helpful and practical features, this compass is a good choice for basic outdoor activities. Its rugged die-cast body helps protect the components of this navigation tool from the elements. The thermoelastic capsule has a floating dial and rotating bezel to assist you when navigating difficult areas.
7. TurnOnSport Orienteering Compass
If you need a lightweight compass that is easy to use and store, this may be the best backpacking compass for you. It’s easy to use if you know how to adjust a navigational course by sight. The scratch resistant acrylic base is nice as well.
6. Sportneer Military Lensatic Sighting Compass
This is a professional grade compass that features a fluorescent interface and accurate lens function with a rear sight that magnifies the card dial. It’s waterproof and shake-proof so that you can take it with you anywhere.
5. SUUNTO A-30 Compass
Lightweight, easy to read, and inexpensive, this compass is the best backpacking compass for anyone who needs a basic navigation tool. It is very accurate and provides clear and reliable readings. It is not, however, very durable.
4. Brunton TruArc 3 Compass
If you need a great basic compass that can be used for no-nonsense navigation, this is the best backpacking compass you can buy. The compass is easy to use, read, and hold. It’s of high-quality construction and design. Manufactured in Riverton, Wyoming, this compass is not designed to be used in complicated mapping, and there are no cardinal points in the degree markings on this model.
3. Suunto MC-2 Compass
The base plate of this compass features a magnifying lens, and the fixed declination adjustment system is perfect for areas with interfering magnetic variation. It includes extra sighting holes for added precision, as well as an easy to read bezel for low-light situations. It’s an impressive high-end compass option.
2. SUUNTO A-10 Recreational Field Compass
A lightweight compass that is easy to hold and read, this is a great tool for many different navigational scenarios. The Fixed declination correction scale is helpful and the jeweled bearing is also nice. It has dual scales for quick measurement conversion as well.
1. Eyeskey Multifunctional Military Army Aluminum Alloy Compass
With exceptional consumer reviews, this is the best backpacking compass on our list. It works well in a variety of scenarios, and it is of good construction and design quality. It’s easy to use, carry, and navigate with. It also has lots of helpful extras and seems to be a popular choice among many outdoorsmen.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many impressive compasses out there for 2018. We hope that you have found the best backpacking compass for you on our list! We value your feedback, so feel free to let us know which products you prefer. Additionally, tell us about the best backpacking compass you’ve ever tested out.
You Might Also Like: 10 Best Handheld GPS for Hiking of 2018
Leave a Reply