A compass is an important navigation tool when exploring, hiking or traveling outdoors. Although modern technology such as GPS devices have become widely popular, compasses are still very reliable and do not require electricity, especially in emergency situations. There are many types of compasses on the market. How to choose a compass that suits you? This article will introduce you to several key factors to pay attention to when choosing a compass.

1. Type selection

Compasses can be roughly divided into the following types according to their uses and functions:

Substrate compass

This is the most common type of outdoor compass, usually with a transparent base and scale lines, which is convenient for use with maps. It is suitable for activities such as mountaineering and hiking. Because it is light and easy to use, it has become the first choice of many outdoor enthusiasts.

Mirror compass

This type of compass adds a small mirror to the substrate compass to improve the accuracy of the direction. The mirror can help you aim at a farther target when checking the direction, so it is suitable for explorers and professional climbers who need precise navigation.

Military compass

Military compasses usually have a more rugged structure, a metal casing, and provide highly accurate azimuth measurement, suitable for harsh environments and military purposes. For users who need high reliability, military compasses are a good choice.

2. Scale accuracy and angle units

When choosing a compass, you need to consider its scale accuracy. Compasses usually indicate directions in degrees, and some high-end compasses can be accurate to 1 degree or even 0.5 degree resolution. This is very important for people who need precise navigation, especially when you need to accurately locate according to the map in the wild, the degree of angle accuracy will affect your direction judgment.

In addition, pay attention to whether the compass supports two different units - degrees (360 degrees) and mils (6400 mils). Most compasses use degrees as units, but some high-precision applications (such as the military) may require mils.

3. Magnetic declination adjustment function

The earth's magnetic field does not point to true north everywhere. The difference between magnetic north and true north is called "magnetic declination". Magnetic declination may be different in different regions, so choosing a compass with magnetic declination adjustment function can make it easier to navigate accurately. This function allows users to adjust the compass to compensate for the local magnetic declination to ensure that you get the correct direction information.

4. Material and Durability

The material of a compass directly affects its service life. For outdoor adventurers, it is particularly important to choose a sturdy and durable compass. It is recommended to choose a compass that is waterproof, dustproof and impact-resistant, so that it can still work properly in harsh environments. Military compasses usually use metal casings, which are more sturdy, while ordinary plastic substrate compasses are suitable for light outdoor activities.

5. Readability

The scale and pointer on the compass should be easy to read, especially when used in low light conditions. Many high-quality compasses use fluorescent materials for pointers and scales, making them still visible in the dark. In addition, the scale markings of the compass should be clear, ensuring that users can quickly and accurately read the direction.

6. Accessories and additional features

Modern compasses sometimes integrate some additional features to help users use them in different scenarios. For example:

Attached magnifying glass: A magnifying glass can help you see map details more clearly.
Measuring scale: Some compasses have a measuring ruler engraved on the base plate to measure distances on the map and facilitate route planning.
Built-in level: Some high-end compasses are equipped with a level to ensure that the compass is used in a horizontal state, thereby improving measurement accuracy.

7. Portability and weight

For hiking and trekking, the weight and portability of the compass are very important. Generally speaking, baseplate compasses are lightweight and easy to carry, suitable for daily travel. Military compasses are more durable, but usually heavier. If your activities require light travel, it would be more appropriate to choose a lightweight compass. ·