Which Compass?

I am currently looking to buy a compass. I know that there are GPS gadgets out there but I want to learn the old school way to navigate. I enjoy looking at topo maps and really want learn how to navigate with a map and compass. I am currently looking at the Silva Ranger 515 CLQ but I am open to suggestions.

Thanks,
Lew

That is a nice compass, but this is the one that I've been wanting to get. Good luck in your search!

What is your reason for wanting this one? I like it. Just would like more info.

Lew

Hi Lew,

Here is a good info site: http://www.thecompassstore.com/index.html

The basic features I look for are a) baseplate style compass, b) transparent baseplate, c) adjustable declination, d) map scales and e) good quality but not too heavy. Some people like a mirror or other sighting aid. If you're going to use it a lot for navigating while hiking, maybe a sighting compass would be good.

One thing to keep in mind is that navigation by triangulation on landmarks isn't easy in heavily forested areas. I have used a GPS for backcountry navigation for many years, but I ALWAYS carry a good baseplate compass and try to always have a good topo map with me. With the GPS, I rarely need the compass but the map still comes in handy in tricky places (even with Garmin topo maps built into the GPS display).

That website has a lot of good info. I have Suunto GPS Plotter compass and it has worked great for years.

-jc (dismalhiker)

Lew,
I just like the grids that are printed on the compass. It means that I don't have to carry around one of those dang cards to do all my mapping. I have also had a Brunton compass before and I just really liked their quality.

I use a Silva Trekker Sighting Mirror Compass. Pretty plain Jane.

I like using sighting compasses for shooting bearings. I also like that the compass folds closed which protects the capsule.

And the mirror also serves as a grooming/signal mirror. I really like this compass.

If you want the extra features, I'm sure you'll like the compass you have in mind. Mine is a basic version of that one.

Thanks for everyone's responses.... I am going to go with the one Kyle suggested. I found it at Campmor for $32.99. I am sure I will end up with one with a mirror on it. Just cause I like to look at myself...

I know UL wanted me to order him one when I ordered mine to share shipping cost. Kyle do you want me to order you one also?

Lew

Thanks for the offer Lew, but I'm waiting for the one that I currently have to either get lost, STOLEN (any takers? ...haha), or broken before I get a new one. Thanks though.