12 best suunto compasses
Suunto is a well-known manufacturer of high-quality compasses, particularly designed for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, mountaineers, and other individuals who rely on accurate navigation in the great outdoors. Suunto compasses are known for their precision and durability. Here are some key features and information about Suunto compasses:
Accuracy: Suunto compasses are renowned for their accuracy. They use high-quality magnetic needles and liquid-filled capsules to provide reliable and precise readings. This accuracy is essential for accurate navigation in challenging terrain.
Variety of Models: Suunto offers a range of compass models to cater to different needs. Whether you need a basic compass for general navigation or a more advanced model with additional features, Suunto likely has an option for you.
Global Needle: Some Suunto compasses are designed with a global needle that works accurately in both the northern and southern hemispheres. This feature makes them suitable for use anywhere in the world.
Sighting Devices: Many Suunto compasses come equipped with sighting devices, such as a mirror or a sighting notch. These tools allow for more precise bearings and accurate navigation when taking bearings on distant landmarks.
Durable Construction: Suunto compasses are built to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures. They are typically constructed with high-quality materials that are resistant to wear and tear.
Declination Adjustment: Some Suunto compasses allow users to adjust for magnetic declination. This is an important feature for accurate navigation, as it helps align the compass with true north rather than magnetic north.
Luminescent Features: Many Suunto compasses have luminescent markings on the dial and/or a built-in light source to facilitate nighttime navigation.
Clinometer: Some advanced Suunto compass models are equipped with a clinometer, which can be used to measure angles and slopes. This is particularly useful for assessing terrain steepness.
Balanced for Precision: Suunto compasses are carefully balanced to ensure that the magnetic needle settles quickly and accurately, even when the user is on the move.
Accessories: Suunto offers various accessories, including protective cases and lanyards, to help users keep their compasses in good condition and easily accessible during outdoor activities.
Suunto has a strong reputation in the outdoor sports and navigation community, and their compasses are considered reliable tools for wilderness navigation. Whether you're an experienced outdoor enthusiast or a beginner, having a Suunto compass as part of your gear can be a valuable asset to ensure you stay on course and navigate safely in the wild.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best suunto compasses on the market
Suunto MC-2 NH USGS Compass
SUUNTO
Product description
The MC 2 Pro Compass is made with the top of the line features for precise directional measurements. The most advanced navigation compass for serious hikers, backpackers, skiers, etc. When venturing out into new territory, these sighting compasses offer precision navigation with a variety of carefully engineered and dependable features for challenging conditions. Make navigating easy and never get lost with the MC 2 Pro Compass, the perfect gift for those that love to hike.
- SS004239001 SUUNTO MC-2 NH USGS Mirror Compass
- A professional mirror compass with top-of-the-line features for precise directional measurements
- Balanced for northern hemisphere
- USGS UTM scales
- Adjustable declination correction
- Mirror for sighting bearings and signaling
- Clinometer
User questions & answers
| Question: | I live in europe would it be advisable to get the compass in inch or centermeters |
| Answer: | Yes it does |
| Question: | How to adjust declination. Declination neddle moves as compass moves |
| Answer: | As best I can ascertain, the compass shown in this photo is the Suunto 'MC-2/G/DL' (Global Needle with Metric romers) and an inch ruler on the right side with a bezel marked in standard 360 degrees. The 'MC-2G In' is the one made with the global needle and the romers in the English system (inches) with the bezel marked in the standard 360 degrees (the one I wanted). The 'MC-2/G/6400' I believe is the military version with metric romers and the bezel marked in "Mils" as opposed to the customary 360 degrees. If you need a compass for calling in artillery strikes - a man is entitled to a few fantasies ; ) - the 6400 model is the one. Here is a link to an article that I hope you find helpful; http://www.shavenraspberry.com/suunto-mc-2-global-military-mirror-compass. There are at least 3 different versions of this compass and most of the pics on the net are wrong. Do your homework or buy in person at a brick and mortar if possible. |
| Question: | Can anyone tell me what the white ticks on the side of the mirror cover are for and how to use them? It appears related to elevation and scaling |
| Answer: | Yes on both. It will be a challenge for shaving since mirror is approx 2 3/8 in (l-r) x 2 11/16 in (t-b). If laying horizontal exchange measurements. |
| Question: | I am looking for the best compass you can get for your money and was wondering what you would recommend |
| Answer: | As someone who just purchased the "Suunto MC-2G In Global Compass" according to this description, please note that as you compare the version colors. The $38.65 "Suunto MC-2G In Global Compass" (according to the product title) was actually a northern hemisphere only compass- not a global. The color called it, "NH USGS Mirror Compass" and the other color options included, "Black", "G Mirror Compass", and "USGS Mirror Compass" - all listed under the MC-2G title. So the sellers are probably selling the compass in the incorrect product title. Still a good deal if you're ok with a northern hemisphere model. |
SUUNTO M-3 Compass
SUUNTO
- Balanced for Northern Hemisphere
- Metric and Imperial scales
- Adjustable declination correction
- Luminescent markings for working in low light
- Detachable snap-lock lanyard with wristlock. Easy to detach for working with the map
- Sport type: Camping & Hiking
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is the needle housing made of plastic or metal |
| Answer: | its the same product, but a different reseller. Another difference what could be is the backplate; glow in the dark or tritium illuminated. |
| Question: | Is this completely waterproof, if I drop it in the mud, can I wash it w/soap & water |
| Answer: | No issues. Just had to sign for. |
| Question: | Should the needle move freely while the compass is in the package |
| Answer: | It has a red light hardwired to the electrical system. The light is under the shade |
| Question: | How can I know this is not a fake |
| Answer: | Yes |
SUUNTO MC-2 Compass
Suunto
Product description
When venturing out into new territory, this sighting compasses offer precision navigation with a variety of carefully engineered anddependable features for challenging conditions.
Set Contains:
1 Mirror Compass
- 100% Plastic
- Imported
- SS016326000 SUUNTO MC-2/G/6400
- A professional mirror compass with top-of-the-line features for precise directional measurements globally
- Globally balanced needle
- Direction in mils
- USGS UTM scales
User questions & answers
| Question: | For the global metric and imperial version, is the azimuth reading in degrees and does it have km or miles on the scale |
| Answer: | refill post will arrive in Amazon warehouse by end of this month. |
Product features
Suunto Compasses
In the world of electronic navigation, a mechanical compass and a printed map is still the most reliable way to navigate. Made in Finland, Suunto compasses help you safely and accurately navigate the great outdoors. Advanced engineering combined with thoughtful design ensure fast, stable and simple use. No batteries required.
SUUNTO A-30 NH USGS Compass
Suunto
Product description
Suunto A-30L IN Introductory Compass
Hailing from Suunto's A-Range of recreational compasses, the A-30L is a compact, well-designed compass for hiking and orienteering, with a luminous bezel and markings that are ideal for navigating in poor visibility. The highly accurate instrument is made of durable, clear, scratch-resistant acrylic that's been ergonomically designed to fit in the palm of your hand. More significantly, the compass employs Suunto's two-zone system to achieve precise, accurate readings regardless of where you're traveling. Previously, most compasses functioned well in only one of five geographic zones. That's because the compasses were balanced differently based on the zone's inclination, i.e., the vertical intensity and direction of the Earth's magnetic field. However, as people began to travel more, it became clear that globe-hopping adventurers needed compasses with a greater geographical range. Suunto's two-zone system, by contrast, considers only the northern and southern hemispheres. In practice, this means that a Suunto compass designed for the northern hemisphere--as the A-30L is--will still work for a fair distance into the southern hemisphere and vice-versa. Suunto is one of only two compass manufacturers to offer two-zone compasses.
The lightweight A-30L compass also features a fixed declination correction scale, a jewel bearing, marking holes for drawing control points, a magnifying lens, and a patent-pending snap-lock that detaches easily from the lanyard. The compass measures 2.2 by 4.3 inches and is backed by a lifetime warranty.
- Lightweight, versatile compass made of durable, clear, scratch-resistant acrylic
- Employs Suunto's two-zone system for reliable readings in northern hemisphere
- Fixed declination correction scale, jewel bearing, and marking holes for control points
- Luminous bezel and markings for navigating in poor visibility; lanyard with detachable snap-lock
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is the compass for northern or southern hemisphere |
| Answer: | Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 2.6 x 0.4 inches |
| Question: | Does it come with basic instructions |
| Answer: | You should be some distance away (30 meters or 100 feet?) from a car to get accurate readings from a magnetic compass. The iron and steel in an automobile definitely attract the compass needle and would give you errors if you were close to any such ferrous metals. |
| Question: | The photo and "color" or model don't seem to match. the "nh metric" shows miles and inches in the photo. is this correct? i want the mile/inch version |
| Answer: | 1 |
| Question: | Can you get rid of the silly (i.e. breakable) lanyard snap clip and tie the lanyard (or a piece of paracord) directly to the compass |
| Answer: | No, it does not have an adjustment where you can compensate for declination. Once you get used to using the declination in your area you will find to make the mathematical correction easily. |
SUUNTO MCB NH MIRROR COMPASS
SUUNTO
Product description
The trekking compass. These simple sighting compasses add useful features that will help trekkers go even further into the great outdoors.
- SS012277013 SUUNTO MCB NH Mirror Compass
- A floating, ergonomic multi-purpose mirror compass that combines precision with practicality
- Balanced for northern hemisphere
- Centimeters and Inches direction scales
- Fixed declination correction scale
- Mirror for sighting bearings and signaling
- Sighting hole and notch for accurate bearings
User questions & answers
| Question: | where is it made |
| Answer: | Bearings (azimuth) are in 2 degree increments. Not sure about the global, but most other models have both metric and imperial. Suggest you go to Suunto website. |
| Question: | Does it have a sighting hole or do you olny have the gun barrel sights |
| Answer: | There is not carpet in between the posts. Just on the top post. |
| Question: | How is this compass for night navigation |
| Answer: | you can turned the bottom on up side down and still screw into the base. the top post is not able to work that way. |
| Question: | What are the open and closed sizes? I assume the 11.5 X 4.8 is the package size |
| Answer: | Base is actually 2 pieces. When manufactured the base carpet is glued to both pieces and they are folded together like a birthday card for shipping purposes. The carpet acts like a long hinge. Note there may be other hardware under the carpet but it is impossible to see. If you assemble it according to the directions the whole assembly is as solid as a rock. My cat scratches the heck out of the post several times a day and it is as solid as the day I assembled it. I would buy it again without hesitation. Note there is a special tool that comes with the product for tightening the bottom bolt, don't loose it in case you need to tighten everything up after weeks of cat use. |
Product features
Suunto Compasses
In the world of electronic navigation, a mechanical compass and a printed map is still the most reliable way to navigate. Made in Finland, Suunto compasses help you safely and accurately navigate the great outdoors. Advanced engineering combined with thoughtful design ensure fast, stable and simple use. No batteries required.
SUUNTO A-10 Compass
SUUNTO
- Balanced for southern hemisphere
- CM & INCHES direction scales with distance helpers
- Fixed declination correction scale
- High grade steel needle with jewel bearing
- Liquid filled capsule for stable operation
User questions & answers
| Question: | What is the size of the A |
| Answer: | The website says Finland but nothing is stamped on the compass itself sooooo. It is a nice compass. Felt a little cheesy at first but it holds up real well and it's super light weight. |
| Question: | Mine got a air bubble in it, any ideas how to get it out? Was 10 miles into a national forest when I pulled it out and noticed it |
| Answer: | No sight hole. Nice compass though. Lightweight, accurate, snaps closed tightly. |
| Question: | How large is the lanyard hole |
| Answer: | Haven't used at night yet, but I would think it would work with a small flashlight. |
| Question: | If I were to purchase a micro mirror and glue it to the back of this compass, would there be any foreseeable negative effects on the compass |
| Answer: | Metric: Measurements 56 x 68 x 18 mm, Weight 36 gImperial: Measurements 2.2 x 2.68 x 0.71", Weight 1.27 ozThank you |
SUUNTO A-30 Compass
SUUNTO
- SS012095013 SUUNTO A-30 NH Metric Compass
- A compact, accurate compass for hiking and orienteering
- Balanced for northern hemisphere
- Metric scales
- Fixed declination correction scale
- Luminescent markings for working in low light
- Baseplate with magnifying lens
User questions & answers
| Question: | Has anyone tried to use it in a city street surrounded by tall buildings? Totally useless in such enviornment |
| Answer: | the A10 is about 4" long and 2.5" wide. |
| Question: | Can the A 30 withstand shock and cold weather when snowmobiling |
| Answer: | If the air bubble is small enough that it doesn't touch the needle then your reading is accurate. But my experience has been that over time you will get more air bubbles, they might combine into larger bubbles and then your compass is quite inaccurate. No way I know of to get rid of bubble...buy another compass. |
| Question: | Why would one purchase the nh versus the nh usgs model |
| Answer: | Approximately the diameter of the end of a traditional shoe lace. (best way I can describe it.) |
| Question: | Does it work indoor |
| Answer: | This is a `baseplate' compass which is used to place flat on a map to provide angles to and from a particular points on the map. If you want to attach a (of course, a 'non-magnetic') mirror to the bottom of the compass, it will may affect its ability to sit flat on a map if it not attached completely flatly, and will also affect your ability to read the distance/map units since the mirror may obscure your ability to see the map scale/distance conversions and even MORE IMPORTANTLY the parallel lines in the center of the bezel which must be aligned with the MAP'S GRID LINES which must be seen through the clear baseplate plastic. The angles between the two poins are then easily read off the bezel degree scale. If you want a mirror on a baseplate compass then I suggest you should opt to get a `sighting' baseplate compass which is obtained from many companies (e.g. Silva or Suunto) at relatively low prices from Amazon.N.B. I also saw a Silva sighting compass for $ 8.00 but the Amazon address did not download, but you can find it using an Amazon web search! $ 20.00 http://www.amazon.com/Silva-2801149-Guide-426-Compass/dp/B000EQ81SS/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1433712221&sr=8-11&keywords=sighting+compasshttp://www.amazon.com/Suunto-MCB-Black-Mirror-Sighting-Compasses/dp/B002FA9GYE/ref=sr_1_16?ie=UTF8&qid=1433712221&sr=8-16&keywords=sighting+compassOf course, as with everything you can pay alot more ($ 50-00-100.00) for sighting baseplate compasses if you wish! A search on the Amazon web site using the key words `sighting compass' will get you pages of compasses, some of which are very expensive andsome very inexpensive but provided by unknown companies and which (be very careful) have no reviews. Here are some inexpensive ($ 8.00-9.00) ones:This one has a 4/5 rating from reviews and looks really great since it A) has a sighting mirror, B) has a clear baseplate with measurements and different map scales, and C) only costs $ 7.00 with free shipping!:Clear Baseplate with a sighting mirror in the top for only $ 6.99 from UST http://www.amazon.com/UST-Folding-Map-Compass-Black/dp/B00O60IPFC/ref=sr_1_3?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1433714278&sr=1-3&keywords=sighting+compass+mirrorAnother one for only $ 8.00 but has no reviews:http://www.amazon.com/Eyeskey-Outdoor-Camping-Compass-Survival/dp/B00QR3LYXG/ref=sr_1_7?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1433714413&sr=1-7&keywords=sighting+compass+mirrorI suggest you visit this web site for the use of baseplate and sighting baseplate compasses:http://maptools.com/tutorials/plotting/compassYou did not say why you wanted to fix a mirror on the back of the Suunto compass, but I hope this reply to your question helps you. |
Product features
Suunto Compasses
In the world of electronic navigation, a mechanical compass and a printed map is still the most reliable way to navigate. Made in Finland, Suunto compasses help you safely and accurately navigate the great outdoors. Advanced engineering combined with thoughtful design ensure fast, stable and simple use. No batteries required.
Suunto KB-14/360R G Precision Global Compass
SUUNTO
Product description
'Optical Sighting Compass, Liquid Filled Yes, Scales Reversed Degrees, Graduations 0.5 Degrees , Optic Style Adjustable Ocular, Body Material Anodized Aluminum, Needle Type Global, Tripod Mountable No, Overall Length 3-1/32 In., Overall Width 2-1/2 In., Overall Height 19/32 In., Features Jeweled Bearing, Includes Lanyard, Nylon Pouch'
- Price For: Each
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is this compass easy to use while wearing glasses |
| Answer: | That's an interesting question. I haven't tried, but that's a legitimate concern due to surrounding steel and iron affecting the magnetic field. I know I wouldn't rely on a compass in that environment.. or even my house. You can buy a compass for your car, but you have to keep it in the same spot in the car and make an initial adjustment for north due to the declination created by the surrounding metal. But I assume you're asking out of hypothetical curiosity; for me, a street map would be a better choice than a compass! |
| Question: | Does this compass give reciprocal readings as well |
| Answer: | I don't know why it wouldn't , it's pretty well made and at this price whats to lose. |
| Question: | Is the back engravable? Want to give as a gift |
| Answer: | I'm no expert but... NH can come with any scale and in metric and/or inches as specified by the model. But USGS compasses specifically have a scale so the compass can be used in conjunction with a USGS (United State Geologic Survey) topographical map, such as 1:24,000 (probably the most common scale in USGS topo maps). Start with the topo maps you use and determine what scale you need. |
| Question: | Does the compass face/dial glow at night |
| Answer: | No, I wouldn't trust any compass indoors --- there's too much metal that will affect the accuracy depending on where you are in the house and what's nearby made of steel or iron --- stove, oven, cars, steel or cast iron plumbing fixtures & pipes, steel garage door, washer, dryer, window frames, etc. Same goes for your patio if you have steel furniture or a steel canopy frame. There are compasses made for cars but they are stationary and you have to calibrate them for the specific location in your car and then leave it there. So, regardless of the brand of compass you buy ( I really like this one) be sure to practice using it outdoors away from structures, as you would use it in the field. Wander around your house when you get it and you'll see what I mean. |
SUUNTO SS020419000 KB-20/360R G Yellow Compass
SUUNTO
Product description
Suunto KB-20 is a floating, light-weight hand-bearing compass that is an ideal for marine, professional and outdoor use
- Globally balanced needle
- Sighting tools for accurate direction taking
- Direction scale in degrees
User questions & answers
| Question: | What is the difference this for Suunto M- 3G Compass. Need a Quick compass |
| Answer: | It depends if your glasses are made out of metal or not. If it is then no since that will change the direction that it’s pointing. If your glasses are made of plastic then yes it is easy to use. I honestly don’t have a problem using it without my glasses even though I can’t see in the distance while I use it for work. I can see it may be a problem with far sighted people if you use my method. |
| Question: | can it use in Thailand and related zone |
| Answer: | Hello, Yes, absolutely it does. The scale is marked by 10ths of degrees, two numbers, one in positive direction above the other marked in negative direction, e.g. 350/170 |
| Question: | Is this easy to use for a beginner |
| Answer: | The company doesn’t engrave on the compass, but if you do it yourself then yay. |
| Question: | what is the best sighting compass for traversing for the money |
| Answer: | No. do not glow in the dark. |
SUUNTO SK7 Scuba Diving Compass
SUUNTO
Product description
Many divers take compasses for granted, considering them just an accessory to an overall dive gauge console system. Trying to navigate with a poorly designed or improperly functioning compass can be one of diving's more frustrating events. The SK-8 has set a new standard for dive compasses. The superior SK-8 features an exceptional tilt potential of +/- 30° degrees, which is 2-3 times larger than in conventional diving compasses. SK-8, the latest edition of Suunto's leading dive compasses, delivers even better underwater performance with faster stabilization and enhanced readability. The instrument can be used over a wider area of the globe thanks to an upgraded magnet. The SK-8 Compass has easy-to-read numerals on a phosphorescent compass card, and a large side-reading window for gun-sight accurate navigation. The firm-grip rotating bezel with a ratchet at every 5° degree is especially designed to prevent sand-and-dirt contamination, thus allowing smooth turning in all conditions. The compass bezel has compass headings in 30° degrees numbered increments and indicator marks for every 5° degrees. Bezel has twin heading indicators for alignment of compass course and a lubber line across the compass face. The compass is liquid filled for a quick and responsive movement. Navigation was never easier with this handy retractor mount compass module. Retractor is equipped with two choices of mounting clips that easily attach to your BCD. You can attach the compass to BCD with the included plastic quick release snap clip with stainless steel split key ring. The quick disconnect fitting allowing you to remove compass from BCD after the dive for safe storage. When you need to take a compass heading simply pull the self-retracting cable to desired length and when finished it will automatically retract the cable for you. Compass comes with an owner's guide.
- Suunto SK7 Retractable Compass
- Tilt potential of +/- 30°
- Phosphorescent compass card
- Large side-reading window
- Available in a variety of configurations
User questions & answers
| Question: | Hello prompt you will have 2 wrist compass for the north |
| Answer: | You might have digital compass in your wrist computer but I would recommend to have liquid type compass (suunto SK7, Scobapro, mares) for the dive. Suunto SK7 Retractable compass is highly recommended and not so easy to find in the local market. I was requested to buy X2 Suunto SK7 by two professional divers. |
| Question: | if i order the retractable version will i get the SK7 or SK8? it says both versions between the title and details |
| Answer: | You will get the sk8 new version from us |
| Question: | Is this product the suunto sk7 scuba diving compass or the suunto sk8 scuba diving compass?? it states its the 8 but when i click it, it is |
| Answer: | Very strange. I got the SK8 when I made the order back in January but the display is clearly the SK7... |
SUUNTO A-30L Compass
SUUNTO
- Tungsten Steel needle. Sapphire-jeweled bearing. Lifetime Warranty.
- Water Resistant. Temperature range -40 degree F to 140 degree F. .
User questions & answers
| Question: | The compass pictured has a 1:24000 scale on the baseplate. Does the compass you received have that |
| Answer: | This is my favorite. A Brunton might be more accurate but is big and bulky. |
SUUNTO MB-6 NH Compass, Black (SS010605011)
SUUNTO
Product description
A tough compass with a super rugged protective housing and with features needed in navigation at high elevation.
- SS010605011 SUUNTO MB-6 NH
- A tough compass with a super rugged protective housing and with features needed in navigation at high elevation.
- Balanced for northern hemisphere
- Adjustable declination correction
- High grade steel needle with jewel bearing
- Mirror and notches for accurate direction taking
- Liquid filled capsule for stable operation
- Lanyard
Product features
Suunto Compasses
In the world of electronic navigation, a mechanical compass and a printed map is still the most reliable way to navigate. Made in Finland, Suunto compasses help you safely and accurately navigate the great outdoors. Advanced engineering combined with thoughtful design ensure fast, stable and simple use. No batteries required.
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