Compasses

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Buy modern compasses online

The compass is the classic tool for orientation – not only – in the field, which we at ASMC offer in various versions and are happy to help you choose the right model.

How to use the compass correctly on excursions

Every compass uses its needle to immediately indicate the direction to the north and offers a new orientation within a second. Electronic versions differ from this, which are part of a GPS system, for example, and therefore must first be called up as a function. Sometimes determining the position with these methods takes significantly longer. Since a compass should always be at hand, it is advisable to buy a bag to simplify use. This can be attached to a belt, for example, and can be adapted to the respective purpose with a camouflage look or a single-color design.

If you want to be able to look at your compass at any time without explicitly holding it in your hand, you should use a wristband version. This is not only part of many modern digital watches, but can also be worn directly on the wrist as a standalone tool without a watch.

How do I find the best compass for me?

The most important criterion when buying a good compass is the intended use. If you are using a GPS-based navigation device for hiking or geocaching, for example, you will not need a separate compass. However, if you do not have electronic equipment, the classic compass should be easy to use and read immediately as an essential tool for orientation, which can be an argument for attaching it directly to the body or safely storing it in your luggage.

Compasses with integrated lighting are the right choice for night hikes in a military environment or for scouts. Many models of this type now rely on discreet LED lighting, which is very economical and also long-lasting. For an authentic evaluation of the cardinal direction with the finest nuances, the use of analog compasses is also recommended, while compasses in electronic devices offer a more or less fine, digital scale.

Whether the compass is worn on the wrist or attached to a carabiner or in a separate bag depends on the intended use and personal preferences. For all of these options, ASMC not only has the right compass, but also the right accessories for attachment.

Expert tip: Orienting yourself in the wilderness without a compass

The easiest method for areas in the northern hemisphere is to make use of nature. But here too, there are a number of options. We present a few tips. One method that has not only become known through the Game of Thrones books for determining the direction of the compass without (technical aids) is to examine the growth on trees more closely. On one side of the trunk, trees usually have more moss and lichen growth, which indicates the shadier and therefore wetter side of the tree. Furthermore, there are usually fewer branch growths on the same side, which are two indications of the north side. The easiest way to check the number of branches is to look up from below along the trunk. The moss is of course harder to see or not at all in winter, which is why another tip applies here: the snow melts away more quickly on the southern side than on the northern side. In addition to orientation based on nature, it is a good idea to carry a radio with you. In situations where natural cues are unclear,the radio provides a reliable means of communication, whether for coordination within a group or for contacting the rescue control center in the event of loss of orientation.

Questions: Compasses

How does a compass actually work?

Such a device measures the north direction using the earth's own magnetic field. A needle that is positioned as loosely as possible will align itself towards the north due to the earth's magnetic field.

What do you need a compass for?

Whether you're hiking, running, cycling, skiing off-piste, canoeing or sailing: to be able to determine the cardinal directions in unknown terrain. Whether for orientation during outdoor activities, the compass is the device of choice. The biggest advantage over modern GPS devices is of course the independence from a power source. This is less important on a weekend tour, but on a trip around the world or a longer break (sabbatical), it can be a decisive factor. You usually also need a (hiking) map, which you can then use to find your way around more easily with the help of the compass. Speaking of which, there is a good collection of tips on map reading here: http://www.kompass.de/magazin/kartenlesen.html

What different variants are there?

There are models adapted to specific conditions, but for most purposes a simple bearing or marching compass should be sufficient. Then there are digital compasses, so-called electronic "fluxgate" models. However, here again several factors come into play that make it more difficult to use, as well as the fact that it is dependent on a power source. Compasses are also often used as underwater navigation devices.

What is the so-called microtremor?

You may know this from your childhood with the compasses that you were often given as gifts: you can't hold it completely still. But this has nothing to do with excessive coffee consumption or anything like that, it is based on the natural body tremors that every person has. Unfortunately, this quickly causes a compass needle to swing. A model that has a dampened and properly mounted needle helps to counteract this.

What should you pay attention to when buying a compass?

First, you should decide what you want to use such a device for - also in the future - and how much money you are prepared to spend on it. As mentioned above, it is also important in which hemisphere of the earth, i.e. northern or southern hemisphere, you want to use the compass, because you have to use different models for this (keyword "global system"). There are also sports watches with a built-in compass. If the compass is only needed now and then and you are addicted to running anyway, for example, this may be a good solution.

What is the so-called azimuth determination?

There are various explanations for this (e.g. in astronomy), but in the case of commercially available compasses, it means how much the deviation from the north direction is in degrees. For example, south would have an azimuth of 180°, with the angle being measured clockwise.