Never Get Lost Again – Tips to Help You Choose a Great Compass
Finding your way in the great outdoors can be quite a challenge, but having the right compass at your side can make the journey at lot easier. A quality compass is a must for any serious hiker – getting lost in the wilderness can be both disconcerting and potentially dangerous.
There are many different brands of compass on the market today, but two of the most well known and well respected brands are Brunton and Suunto. But no matter what brand of compass you choose to buy, it is important to not simply buy the cheapest compass at the website or outdoor supply store. A quality compass will likely set you back at least $35 or $40, but that is a small price to pay for your peace of mind and the peace of mind of your family.
There are a number of different kinds of compass on the market, and it is important to choose the right compass for the job. This article will take a look at the three most commonly used types of compass – the sighting compass, the map compass and the hybrid compass.
The Sighting Compass
A sighting compass can be a great choice for hiking through dense jungles or in other areas where the trail is not clearly marked. The sighting compass allows the hiker to tell his or her direction by looking through the line of sight and fixing a focus on a distant object. After fixing on that distant object the hiker begins to walk toward the object before taking aim once again.
This makes it a lot easier to navigate in thick underbrush, jungle terrain and other challenging conditions. While not every hiker will need a sight compass, it can be a good choice for the serious jungle trekker.
The Map Compass
Also known as a flat compass, a map compass is what many people think of when they think of a compass. The mpa compass is a disk with clearly marked spots for north, south, east and west. The map compass is a perfect choice for hiking in areas where there is a well defined map.
A map compass will be lighter to carry than a sighting compass, and hikers can place the compass on the map to determine which way to turn when encountering a fork on the trail. If you are hiking in areas whre there is little obstruction and a good line of sight a simple map compass can be an excellent and cost effective choice.
The Hybrid Compass
The hybrid compass is the Swiss Army Knife of the hiking world. Not only does the hybrid compass tell you which direction you are traveling, but it can also serve as an emergency whistle, an altimeter, a flashlight, a thermometer and more.
When buying a hybrid compass it is important to look for a quality instrument. Some hybrid compasses sacrifice quality and durability for gadgetry, and in some cases the quality of the whistle, flashlight and other gizmos is not all that great. A hybrid compass can be a great choice for a quick hike around the park, but serious hikers will probably want to pack a quality map or sighting compass as well.
Choosing the right compass is an important decision – whether you are a casual day hiker or a serious overnight trekker. In an emergency your very survival could hinge on the quality of the gear you carry, so be sure to choose the best compass you can afford.
