Choosing a compass for hunting: overview of varieties and best models

Liquid

The most accurate among all magnetic ones is considered to be a liquid compass. In a typical simple version, it looks like a “cauldron” filled with water, in which an aluminum or bronze cartridge is fixed on a vertical axis. There are magnets attached to different sides of the card.

In such devices, the liquid stabilizes the needle; in a stable position, the needle helps to accurately determine the readings.

Tablet

Such a device is presented in the form of a tablet; it contains a round flask with a magnetized arrow. The tablet compass is equipped with a magnifying glass for easy viewing of the scale. A special liquid in the capsule ensures the stability of the arrow during rapid movement.

Basic models

Designed for beginner tourists, they have all the necessary components, but they do not have a mirror or adjustment of deviations.

Multifunctional

They are equipped with a mirror, magnifying glass and other additional features. Suitable for regular hikes in the outback, away from the routes.

Magnetic

There are several types of devices with which you can determine cardinal directions.

Mechanical

It can be an ordinary tourist one. This type of compass has a red-tipped needle on a needle pointing north, where the magnetic field is strongest. With a simple magnetic device together with a map, you can more accurately determine the location of various objects.

For the military

It differs from the usual one by a magnifying lens and a sighting device. With such a device, you can more accurately determine the direction of the path in the field.

Geological

In this device, the direction scale divisions are located counterclockwise. To determine the angles of incidence of rock layers, it is equipped with a clinometer and a half-limb.

Hygroscopic

A hygroscopic compass is installed on airplanes and river vessels. It is equipped with a gyroscope, thanks to this device, it points to the true pole, and not to the magnetic pole. This device is stable, so it shows the direction more accurately during swinging.

Astronomical

This view allows you to determine the cardinal directions based on the stars and luminaries. The disadvantage of the device is that it cannot be used during the day.

For orienteering

Which compass should athletes choose? They must be able to use a magnetic compass and understand a topographic map.

Therefore, an orienteering compass must have high performance characteristics, such as:

• speed and speed of installation of the magnetic needle;
• stability of the arrow during rapid movement of athletes;
• ease of use so that the device is held steadily in the hand;
• small size and light weight.

Types of compass. Types of compasses: how and which compass to choose

The compass as an effective device for orienting the terrain has been known since time immemorial and has not lost its relevance to this day, providing the ability to navigate even in conditions where the sky is overcast with clouds and there is an impenetrable forest around. Of course, only if the compass is selected and configured correctly, and the traveler or hunter himself knows how to use it.

Types of compasses

All modern compass models can be divided into three main groups:

Liquid compasses

The simplest and at the same time accurate devices. They are a compact container with liquid, on top of which a copper or aluminum coil with a ferromagnetic needle is fixed. On either side of it there are two magnets that create a magnetic field. By rotating the compass horizontally, you can determine the exact location quite quickly. The liquid provides additional stabilization to the needle, significantly increasing the accuracy of measurements.

ADVANTAGES

— Compact dimensions — Low cost — No setup or calibration required — High measurement accuracy

FLAWS

— Reservoirs, as a rule, are made of glass and require extremely careful handling — Cannot withstand sharp impacts and shaking

Magnetic compass

The good old device, known to each of us. It is a compact “round” with a dial fixed inside and a rotating hand, the red end of which is magnetized and always points to the north. Determining your own location in this way, knowing where the north is, will not be difficult even in the darkest night. The magnetic compass system is widely used not only in universal tourist compasses, but also in highly specialized models - military, geological, navigation devices, astronomical and other compasses.

ADVANTAGES

— Small and easy to use; - Low price; — Unpretentiousness; — High accuracy of readings; — Ease of use

FLAWS

- May give incorrect readings if there are strong magnetic fields nearby

Electronic compass

A modern analogue of the classic model with expanded functionality. The role of the arrow and the dial here is played by a backlit LCD display, and the direction is determined using sophisticated algorithms for assessing information. Electronic compass MINI GPS from Photo-Hunter

The size of a keychain is ideal for orientation in the field for both travelers and hunters. To learn more

ADVANTAGES

— Stores up to 16 coordinate points in memory; — Indicates the return route with an accuracy of 5 meters; — Equipped with a GPS module and processes information from satellites; — Has a waterproof case; — Works up to 10 hours without recharging; - Easy to use; — Attached to a belt or backpack using a carabiner, like a keychain; - Multifunctional.

Electronic compasses

Electronic compasses operate on the basis of magnesium sensors, and are included in the satellite navigation system when searching for the desired coordinates. They are intended only for professionals; they are used mainly by military personnel and representatives of law enforcement agencies.

Depending on the location and purpose, these types of electronic navigators are used.

Radio compass

Indicates the direction of an object emitting radio waves. It is used by aviators to navigate in space during flights.

Travel electronic compass

It differs from a mechanical tourist one in that it does not have a magnetized pointer. The compass determines the cardinal directions using electronic circuits. It shows the time and has various additional programs built into it, even videos.

GPS and GLONASS

These navigators operate using an electronic system; they receive signals from several satellites to determine the exact location and direction.

GPS receivers are considered high quality navigators and are almost always equipped with an electronic compass. But GPS navigators cannot work without a battery, which can run out at the most necessary moment. Therefore, during a hike you cannot do without a magnetic compass or a set of spare batteries.

GPS receivers, unlike magnetic compasses, have the following advantage: they can estimate the current location without visible landmarks on snowy days and in foggy weather. With a GPS device, you can easily set the desired direction when avoiding an obstacle and re-adjust the compass along the changed route line.

Compass apps. Best compass apps for Android

We are all accustomed to using maps on our smartphones, which help us find the desired object or get directions. You just need to activate location detection and then enter the address of a specific destination. But to work with such applications, you often need a constant Internet connection, which may not be available in places remote from the city. And in order not to get lost while traveling, it is advisable to know how to use a compass on Android. This is a primitive tool, used since ancient times, but still copes with its task perfectly.

Criterias of choice

The choice of compass depends on the purpose: you buy it for hunting, for hiking or orienteering. It is recommended to choose a compass model so that it can be used in different situations: during hiking trips and orienteering competitions.

What is the best compass for hikers and bikers?

When choosing, you need to take note of some nuances:

• Classic models of compasses with degree division and with a ruler are suitable for hiking trips.
• Tourists often use degree calculations and azimuth calculations, so they need a ruler and a degree dial on the compass when hiking.
• For cyclists, a more acceptable option is a GPS navigator, although its batteries run out quickly. Therefore, cyclists will have to take a classic compass with them.
• For air travel, preference should be given to electronic navigators, since they are multifunctional and you can use them to determine both altitude and pressure.

Compass for Android

You can download it here.

An excellent, beautiful compass with a self-explanatory name. This program will allow you to accurately determine one or another side of the world . I will also highlight the following functions:

1. The ability to choose one of several design themes that you like best;
2. A simple and clear mode of use, no unnecessary settings or anything else.

Review of the best models

Good quality equipment for tourists is produced by the Swedish company Silva and the Finnish company Suunto.

Silva 6 Nor Spectra

Suitable for use on any terrain, it is a classic professional device for orienteering, equipped with the Spectra system, the arrow of the device is straight and wide, convenient for quickly reading readings.

Differs in the following features:

1. With a strong magnet, the instrument needle quickly calms down.
2. Clear base plate with clear markings
3. Safe to place in your hand.
4. The Silva 6 Nor Spectra Right can also be held in the right hand.

Suunto M-9

The Suunto M-9 wrist model is convenient and multifunctional.

Tourists choose it for its small size and light weight, as well as the accuracy of determining the direction. The wrist device can also be used underwater.

Brunton International Pocket Transit 0-360 Degree

A good American-made device is considered the most reliable and suitable for use in field conditions.

The aluminum body is particularly durable and waterproof. The device is characterized by increased accuracy of direction determination.

The best travel compasses

They are optimal devices for orienteering in remote areas where tourists travel. They are distinguished by reliable cases, which come in expensive or budget versions. When choosing, you need to focus on ease of use and speed.

Suunto MB-6 Global

A multifunctional product that has global balancing. The compass has a matchbox-shaped form factor. The case is reinforced with auxiliary protection, as a result of which it is virtually impossible to deform the device. When the product is immersed in water, it will not break, since it does not fall into the device itself. There is a sighting device in order to accurately establish the direction. Can provide accurate information regardless of location. The direction of movement and landmark marks are made of luminescent materials that glow in the dark.

Pros:

• liquid;
• deviation correction is adjusted;
• small sizes;
• axial supports made of sapphire.

Minuses:

• quite expensive.

Brunton International Pocket Transit 0-360 Degree

The device in question is the leading one in this segment. The compass is recognized as the best for use during tourist expeditions. The price of the device is quite high, but it pays off in quality. The product has predominantly positive characteristics from consumers. The cast aluminum housing will protect all the main elements from damage. Double level, which will help you find the perfect balance at the point. Operates reliably in the Southern Hemisphere. The package includes a waterproof silicon shutter, a tripod adapter, and a leather case for storage and transportation.

Pros:

• increased accuracy – up to 0.5 degrees;
• functions equally well on land and water;
• The graduation is divided into single divisions.

Minuses:

• high price.

Silva Compass Expedition

Quite a high-quality magnetic tablet compass. The device was developed for experienced tourists, and therefore is characterized by expanded functionality. For those who use GPS, there is an additional measurement scale.

The product is equipped with a clinometer and a magnifying glass. There are luminous markings, which makes it possible to continue moving even at night. Functions properly at temperatures in the range of -40+60 degrees. Buyers highlight increased accuracy; deviations will be no more than 1 degree. The housing is made of impact-resistant plastic.

Pros:

• compact dimensions;
• small weight;
• reasonable price.

Minuses:

• not installed.

How to navigate with a compass

So what you need to do:

1. First you need to determine a landmark to which you should return, for example, it could be a tree.
2. Orientation begins by pressing a special lock and releasing the magnetic needle.
3. Taking the device and placing it horizontally on your palm, you need to wait for the blue arrow to position at 0 degrees of the scale, then turn the lid to install it with the slot towards you and the front sight towards the object.
4. Having chosen the direction of movement, you should fix it and remember the value of the angle, called “azimuth”.
5. Constantly checking the direction, you need to start moving.
6. After you have reached the final point of movement, you should turn around your axis. This means that a rotation was made around its axis by 180 degrees. It turns out that we returned to the starting point of the route.

Tourists and travelers, as well as hunters, can find themselves in unfamiliar places at any moment and lose the direction of their further movement. In such cases, a compass can quickly determine the location.

But before choosing a compass, you need to study their types, properties, as well as for whom and for what purposes they are intended.

Rating of the best compasses