The compass is an indispensable tool for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, campers and adventurers. It allows you to orient yourself and navigate in unfamiliar terrain, guaranteeing optimum safety during your outings. This buying guide will help you choose the right compass for your specific needs, taking into account essential technical criteria. See our best compasses and other survival equipment.

1. Compass types

Baseplate compasses

Baseplate compasses are the most common and versatile. They are mounted on a transparent plate with sighting lines and measuring scales.

• Advantages: Versatility, ease of use, accuracy.
• Disadvantages: May require some practice for optimum use.

Sighting compasses

Sighting compasses, also known as bearing compasses, are equipped with a sight to take precise bearings. They are ideal for navigation in difficult terrain.

• Advantages: Accurate, ideal for bearings.
• Disadvantages: Can be more complex to use, generally heavier.

Mapping compasses

Cartographic compasses are designed for use with topographic maps. They are often equipped with rulers and scales to measure distances on the map.

• Advantages: Ideal for mapping, precision.
• Disadvantages: May require some practice for optimum use.

Digital compasses

Digital compasses use electronic sensors to indicate direction. They are often integrated into watches or GPS devices.

• Advantages: ease of use, accuracy, additional functions.
• Disadvantages: Dependence on power supply, may be less reliable in the event of battery failure.

2. Technical specifications

Magnetic needle

The magnetized needle is the central element of the compass. It must be well-balanced and able to rotate freely to indicate magnetic north accurately.

• Materials: Steel or alloy needles are commonly used for their durability and accuracy.
• Stability: Look for compasses with stabilized needles for accurate reading, even on the move.

Rotating case

The rotating case, or limb, allows you to take bearings and navigate in a precise direction. It must be easy to handle and well graduated.

• Graduations: Graduations in degrees (0-360°) or thousandths (0-6400) are commonly used.
• Legibility: Look for cases with clear, legible graduations, even in low-light conditions.

Faith line

The line of faith is a marked line on the baseplate or rotating housing, used to align the compass with a specific direction.

• Accuracy: A well-marked true line improves bearing accuracy.
• Visibility: Look for clearly visible true lines, even in low-light conditions.

Magnetic declination

Magnetic declination is the difference between magnetic north and true north. Some compasses allow you to adjust declination for more precise navigation.

• Setting: Look for compasses with an easy-to-use declination setting.
• Accuracy: Precise declination adjustment improves navigation accuracy.

Sighting Mirror

The sighting mirror is a feature of sighting compasses, allowing precise bearings to be taken while looking at the direction.

• Accuracy: A sighting mirror improves bearing accuracy.
• Protection: Look for compasses with protected sighting mirrors to avoid scratches.

Measuring scales

Measuring scales are rulers or graduations on the baseplate, used to measure distances on a map.

• Common scales: 1:25,000, 1:50,000, 1:100,000.
• Versatility: Look for compasses with multiple measurement scales for versatile use.

Waterproofing and durability

The compass must be waterproof and durable to withstand harsh outdoor conditions.

• Materials: Robust plastic or metal housings offer good durability.
• Waterproofing: Look for waterproof compasses for use in all weather conditions.

3. Ease of use

Size and weight

Compass size and weight are important for portability and ease of use.

• Compact: A compact, lightweight compass is easier to carry and use.
• Ergonomic: Look for compasses with an ergonomic shape for a comfortable grip.

Legibility

Legibility of graduations and markings is crucial for accurate use.

• Contrast: Look for compasses with high-contrast graduations and markings for improved legibility.
• Luminescence: Some compasses feature luminescent markings for use in low-light conditions.

Instructions and guides

Some manufacturers provide detailed instructions or navigation guides with their compasses, which can be useful for less experienced users.

• Clear instructions: Look for compasses with clear, easy-to-understand instructions.
• Navigation guides: Navigation guides can be particularly useful for learning how to use the compass effectively.

4. Price and Brand

Quality-price ratio

Compass prices can vary considerably, depending on features and quality. It's important to find the right value for your specific needs.

• Budget: Entry-level compasses may be sufficient for occasional use.
• Top-of-the-range: Top-of-the-range compasses offer advanced features and greater durability, ideal for intensive use.

Brand and reputation

Opt for reputable, well-established brands in navigation equipment. Reviews and recommendations from other users can also be helpful in assessing product quality and reliability.

Choosing a compass is a crucial decision for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, campers and adventurers. By considering compass types, technical features, ease of use, durability and price, you can find the ideal compass for your adventures. Don't forget to check compatibility with your other equipment, and to test the compass in conditions similar to those you'll encounter on your outings. With the right compass, you'll be able to enjoy every adventure to the full, in complete safety and with optimum navigation.