11 best suunto hiking compasses

Product description

A professional mirror compass with top-of-the-line features for precise directional measurements Hailing from Suunto's MC series, the top-of-the-line MC-2G global compass is an invaluable tool for people who require highly accurate and reliable directional measurements, such as surveyors, miners, architects, rescue patrols, hikers, boaters, and the military. The MC-2G boasts a fixed declination adjustment systemstandard throughout the rangethat's especially useful when working in areas with large magnetic variation. The tool's additional sighting hole, meanwhile, ensures superior accuracy, as does the jewel bearing. Add in a mirrored lid, a baseplate with a round magnifying lens, a clinometer that measures the ground slope, and a luminous bezel and markings and you have a versatile, practical compass for a variety of applications. The real star of the MC-2G, however, is its global needle, which works anywhere on the planet. 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-hoppers needed compasses with a greater geographical range. Suunto responded by developing two-zone systemswhich work in either the northern or southern hemisphereand one-zone systems such as the global MC-2G. Now there's no need to purchase several compasses before embarking on your around-the-world eco adventure. The MC-2G, which also sports a red nylon lanyard for around-the-neck use, measures 2.5 by 0.6 by 3.9 inches (W x H x D) with the lid closed and weighs a mere 2.65 ounces. It's also backed by a lifetime warranty.

Hailing from Suunto's MC series, the top-of-the-line MC-2G global compass is an invaluable tool for people who require highly accurate and reliable directional measurements, such as surveyors, miners, architects, rescue patrols, hikers, boaters, and the military. The MC-2G boasts a fixed declination adjustment system--standard throughout the range--that's especially useful when working in areas with large magnetic variation. The tool's additional sighting hole, meanwhile, ensures superior accuracy, as does the jewel bearing. Add in a mirrored lid, a baseplate with a round magnifying lens, a clinometer that measures the ground slope, and a luminous bezel and markings and you have a versatile, practical compass for a variety of applications.

The real star of the MC-2G, however, is its global needle, which works anywhere on the planet. 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-hoppers needed compasses with a greater geographical range. Suunto responded by developing two-zone systems--which work in either the northern or southern hemisphere--and one-zone systems such as the global MC-2G. Now there's no need to purchase several compasses before embarking on your around-the-world eco adventure.

The MC-2G, which also sports a red nylon lanyard for around-the-neck use, measures 2.5 by 0.6 by 3.9 inches (W x H x D) with the lid closed and weighs a mere 2.65 ounces. It's also backed by a lifetime warranty.

• Metric UTM scales and inch ruler
• Adjustable declination correction
• Mirror for sighting bearings and signaling
• Clinometer
• Luminescent markings for working in low light
• Sport type: Camping & Hiking

User questions & answers

Question:	does it glow in the dark
Answer:	The housing is plastic.
Question:	Is the one shown up here is the model MC-2/G
Answer:	The short answer is I don't know. I have not dropped it into water or mud but I would think you could just clean it off with a damp soft cloth...no soap. I don't know if it is 'waterproof' but it's made to be used in weather conditions like rain or snow. You can also check with Suunto for additional information.
Question:	Can I use the mirror as a signal mirror to call for help? Can I use it for shaving
Answer:	Yes, just as it does when you are hiking or traveling. No problem at all.
Question:	You have two pictures of this compass shown. One is $57.65 and the other is $48.54. Both have the same product description. What is the difference
Answer:	check the packaging and make sure that the unit says Made in Finland. The lanyard should have a curious piece of metal that looks like a screwdriver. Instructions explain what it is for.

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.

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.

Product description

Suunto attachable compasses form a natural part of outdoorgear, freeing up hands and easing the mind.

• SS004102011 SUUNTO CLIPPER L/B NH Compass
• Attach and make it part of your outdoor gear for easy direction taking
• Clips to watch strap, sleeve, strap of backpack, side of map etc.
• Supercompact aid for underwater navigation
• Balanced for northern hemisphere
• Liquid filled jewel bearing compass
• Cardinal directions in luminous prints on card
• Direction on rotating bezel in 10 degrees increments

User questions & answers

Question:	is this model made in China
Answer:	If your windshield is not slippery, you can try, thank you
Question:	What os (one size) means? does it mean it can work in northern and southern hemisphere
Answer:	The overall height is about 1.57in (4cm).
Question:	This can be used for diving? I don't see a depth resistance rating on it's description. Thanks
Answer:	It may be hard to find a place on the dash the doesn't have significant magnetic interference from the speaker magnets... I had to place it several times and see where the magnetic fields balance so it points correctly.... sort of like witchcraft but it found a spot.
Question:	Are the luminescent markers self-luminating (tritium), or do they need to be exposed to light for them to be luminous in the dark
Answer:	If you mount the compass ball upside down, the scale and direction symbols marked on the compass ball are completely invisible.

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.

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.

Product features

Skills necessary for safe and enjoyable wilderness travel

Where am I? How far is it to my destination? Will I be able to find my way back? This book shows you how to use orientation and navigation to answer these most frequently asked questions in wilderness travel. By the time you finish reading this guide, you will have a good handle on the tools of navigation and the proven techniques of top-notch navigators, who have acquired their skills through years of roaming—and being lost in—the wilderness. You will have the basic knowledge to head into the wilds, work out the way to your destination, and, most importantly, find your way home.

-Bob and Mike Burns

• 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

• 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

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.

Product description

The Suunto M-9 wrist compass is a handy and reliable tool that a great variety of people find invaluable. Featuring a serrated bezel ring for easy turning even while wearing gloves and available in either black or green, the Suunto M-9 enables you to navigate effectively in town or country.

• Handy and reliable wrist compass for navigating around town or the country
• Employs Suunto's two-zone system for reliable readings in northern hemisphere
• Serrated bezel ring turns easily even when you're wearing gloves
• Ratchet mechanism for setting direction; jewel bearing and side reading window

User questions & answers

Question:	Is this compass made in Finland
Answer:	The Kamik Oslo has a synthetic rubber base that is designed to stay flexible and grippy in cold weather.
Question:	Is it possible to replace the wristband with a NATO wristband ? How wide is the wristbrand ? Thanks
Answer:	I also have a wide foot, don't know how wide though, but regular width shoes/boots don't fit. I have no problem with these boots.
Question:	I just want this for just general cardinal direction at a quick glance. Is this good enough, or is it overkill for that purpose
Answer:	Mine say manufactured in China,,,,,NOT Canada.
Question:	can I use it for recreational scuba diving
Answer:	No

Product features

PRECISION ENGINEERING

Suunto compasses are precision engineered with high-grade materials for maximum durability and precision.

ESSENTIAL NAVIGATION TOOLS

When venturing out into new territory, Suunto compasses offer precision navigation, making them essential companions in even the toughest conditions.

OPTIONS FOR EVERY PURPOSE

Suunto offers a wide range of compasses – for the beginner to the more professional user with specific needs.

Product description

Accurate and Reliable Mirror Compasses The MC range of mirror compasses provides an invaluable tool for those who place a particular premium on accurate and reliable directional measurements; for example surveyors, miners, architects, rescue patrols, hikers, boaters and the military. The declination adjustment system, standard throughout the range, is especially useful when working in areas of large magnetic variation, while the sighting notch provides superior accuracy. The MC-2 model is also available with the Global Balancing System. Field compasses in general Mechanical compasses have been working as the navigator since several thousands of years. Still today magnetic compass is environmentally friendly, cheap and the most reliable tool when choosing the course. The oldest Suunto field compasses, which are still in use, are manufactured in 1938. A high quality field compass hardly needs any other service than washing in fresh water from time to time. The compass works without any external power supply. The compass gets its power from nature - from the magnetic north pole. COMPASS BALANCING Two Geographical Balancing Zones The vertical intensity and direction of the earth's magnetic field, the inclination, influences the horizontal plane of a compass needle according to the latitude where it is used. Due to inclination, compasses must be balanced for different geographical zones in order to keep the needle in a horizontal position.

• Large sighting mirror, 50% more accurate reading than non-mirrored models
• Ergonomic, luminous and two color bezel ring (luminous)
• Works anywhere in the Northern Hemisphere
• Notched capsule for easy grip, even with gloves. 1:24K, 1:62.5K scales
• Detachable lanyard with snap lock

User questions & answers

Question:	Is there any difference between the white and clear one besides price? Pictures show differences
Answer:	If you go on airgundepot they make a adapter that will make a co2 a pcp.
Question:	Is this a global version compass? the image shows a global needle, i just want to make sure i get the model from the image. thank you
Answer:	The oslo are better. I live along the Canadian border in some of the coldest weather in the continental us. They are comfortable at -20 below. Ive worn them at -53 below. They were still comfortable. Maybe its just me but the oslo seem better consrructed also
Question:	exacly which model is it? Suunto website, all the MC-2 are very similar, except for the luminescent bezel and the Jewel bearings. which model is this
Answer:	My husband has a wide foot as well and they are fine, since they are mens style they are probably wider to begin with, in the womens style i bought i went up a size to account for big socks and it is fine
Question:	I have read several articles on Amazon and suunto web site which indicates a cold weather fault in the MC series. Is this still problematic
Answer:	17" tall, great boot.

Product description

The advanced navigation compass. When venturing out into new territory, these sighting compasses offer precision navigation with a variety of carefully engineered and dependable features for challenging conditions.

• Liquid filled capsule for stable operation
• Non-luminescent bezel
• Adjustable declination correction and Clinometer
• Baseplate with magnifying lens
• Imperial scales

User questions & answers

Question:	Does this use azimuth
Answer:	I have bought this pen a few times from Lamy and each time it comes with a box that is pretty nice. Sturdy and certainly one you could gift wrap. Hope that helps.
Question:	Is it illuminated
Answer:	700... Sweet baby Jesus
Question:	Does this have the little locking screw for magnetic north declination
Answer:	The rifle weighs 7.5 lbs.
Question:	Does this have a clinometer
Answer:	You need to have the tank filled or buy a pump it’s a PCP.

Product features

PRECISION ENGINEERING

Suunto compasses are precision engineered with high-grade materials for maximum durability and precision.

ESSENTIAL NAVIGATION TOOLS

When venturing out into new territory, Suunto compasses offer precision navigation, making them essential companions in even the toughest conditions.

OPTIONS FOR EVERY PURPOSE

Suunto offers a wide range of compasses – for the beginner to the more professional user with specific needs.