Any experienced hunter will always have some navigational guide in his or her survival pack. Sometimes we can rely on technology too much. The nifty, top-of-the-line GPS in our phone or watch can’t help us if it loses signal or the power dies.
You should always keep a basic, low-tech compass in your go-bag, just in case.
We’ve reviewed the best hunting compasses on the market of the year that will make a great accessory for any hunter.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Compasses For Hunting
- OUR TOP PICK: Cammenga 27CS Lensatic Compass
- RUNNER-UP: Eyeskey Multifunctional Military Army Compass
- EDITOR'S PICK: Proster Professional Compass Metal Waterproof IP65
Comparison of the Best Hunting Compasses
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What is a Compass?
A compass is a device used to identify your location. A typical magnetic compass has a needle that is attracted to the Earth’s magnetic pull (or magnetic north).
Using a compass, you can identify north (and the other cardinal directions south, east, and west). This can help you if you get lost in the woods or an unknown area. Compasses range from low-tech to high-tech devices that use the Earth’s magnetic pull or satellite signals to find your location.
History of Compasses
Did you know? The device has been around for over 2,000 years! It dates back to ancient China. Using naturally magnetized metals, the Han dynasty invented the compass as a way to predict the future.
By the eleventh century, the Chinese turned the first compasses into a navigational tool. They kept sailors from getting lost at sea because it allowed the crew to find their way without relying only on the stars. Through trade, the use of the compass spread to Europe – without it, Europeans probably would never have reached the New World.
Types of Hunting Compasses
There are several types of compasses on the market today. If you are purchasing your first compass, or you don’t know much about them, the decision process can be completely overwhelming. We’ve broken down the main types for you, so you can get an idea of what kind you need. We have also included a chart for easy reference.
Although our review focuses on the two most common types of magnetic compasses (the lensatic and the floating needle models), the other designs may prove useful for hunters, depending on your comfort level, experience, and preference.
Lensatic
The military uses this type for navigation. This magnetic compass opens up to lie flat on a map to chart your course. It has a lens on it that helps you read the device in areas of low visibility. This is helpful if you get lost at night, during a storm, or if you are in foggy conditions.
Floating Needle
The floating needle compass is one of the most common magnetic versions. The needle lines up with the Earth’s magnetic force, pointing north. Liquid – usually oil or alcohol-based – slightly weighs the needle down to make the reading more accurate.
Dry Compass
The device works the same way as the floating needle, except it doesn’t have the fluid inside the needle cavity. These require more of a steady hand or a level landscape to get the most accurate reading. Floating needle types have largely replaced dry compasses, but both are still available.
GPS Compass
The GPS compass (also called a satellite compass) collects information from satellites that orbit the earth. This information records your location. As you move, the GPS keeps marking your location. Using these readings, it can create a bearing. This type only works if you are in an area where it can read the satellite.
Solid State Compass
If you have a phone or a watch with a GPS app, then you have a solid-state compass. These use electronic magnetic sensors inside the device to measure the Earth’s magnetism to find your location. They provide incredibly accurate readings, but they rely on the power source of the device to work correctly.
Types of Compasses | ||
|---|---|---|
Lensatic | A military grade magnetic compass with an extra lens that helps you read it in areas where is it hard to see. | Best for hunters who are lost in a storm or the at night. |
Floating Needle | A magnetic compass with fluid in the chamber to slightly weigh the needle to get a more accurate reading. | Offers an accurate reading. |
Dry | A magnetic compass without the fluid in the chamber. | Need to make sure it is completely still to get the most accurate reading. |
GPS | Uses satellite coordinates to read your location. | Doesn’t work if the satellite can’t read the GPS’s location. |
Solid-State | Found in smartphones and watches that uses electronic sensors to read the level of the Earth’s magnetism to track your location | Incredibly accurate, but they are inside of a device. If this device loses power, the compass will not work. |
Key Terms to Know
To help compare products in this review, we have included a few key specifications for each. Here is a quick summary of what they mean.
Dimensions: The dimensions of the compass.
Weight: The actual weight of the compass
Illumination: This refers to whether there is any added lighting to help view the compass in dimly lit conditions. This can include phosphorescence, fluorescence, battery power, or solar power.
Type: This tells you how the compass functions. Liquid filled, induction, lensatic, gyro, astro, GPS, and solid state are some variations.
Durability Features: Whether the compass is shockproof, waterproof, sand-proof, weather-rated, etc. to make it last.
Review of the Best Hunting Compasses
Now that we’ve covered the different compasses and how important it is to have one on your next hunting trip, let’s get to it! We’ve rated and reviewed the best hunting products on the market today. Whether you are in the market for yourself or the avid hunter in your life, you’ll be able to find the perfect tool on our list.
Best Overall:
Cammenga 27CS Lensatic Compass
PROS
CONS
Review
For over twenty-five years, Cammenga has supplied survival and navigational gear to the global market, including the military. At only 6.4 oz, the Cammenga 27CS Lensatic Compass is a lightweight yet durable product designed to get you out of the trickiest situations. The aluminum frame is basically indestructible and it is temperature proof from -50˚F to 150˚F.
Unlike other floating needle versions, the Cammenga 27CS has a copper induction damping system. This weighs down the needle for more accurate readings without fluid in the chamber. The bezel rotates in both directions to set your heading, and the compass has measurements in both degrees and milliradians to get a more concise reading.
The best feature is the cardinal points and the needle glows in the dark when activated with natural or artificial light. Only a few minutes of exposure will give it about an hour of glow, helping you find your way at night or in extremely dark areas.
Bottom Line
The Cammenga 27CS Lensatic Compass is one of the best on the market today because it is the same model that the company provides to the military. (The only difference between this model and the military version is that the 27CS uses phosphorous paint to cause it to glow instead of the self-illuminating tritium that doesn’t need light activation.)
Despite the company’s claims that this is military-grade strength, there have been some complaints that it isn’t as durable as it claims to be. However, with such a high accuracy reading of +/- 0002 mils, the Cammenga 27CS Lensatic Compass is definitely the device you want to have with you if you get lost in the woods.
Product Specs
Dimensions:
3.25-inch closed length
Weight:
5.11 oz
Illumination:
Phosphorescence
Type:
Lensatic
Durability Features:
Shockproof, waterproof, sandproof, and functional from -50°F to +150°F
Runner-up:
Eyeskey Multifunctional Military Army Compass
PROS
CONS
Review
Although Eyeskey is a company that mostly manufactures optical instruments, they offer a small selection of reliable products. The Eyeskey Multifunctional Military Army Compass is our runner-up for the best hunting compass for its sophisticated features in a budget-friendly package.
This has an aluminum alloy casing that is waterproof, shatter-resistant, and climate-proof. This particular product features a floating needle, with a thermoelastic liquid in the chamber that won’t freeze even in extremely cold temperatures. A hole in the base lets you place it on a tripod for steady reading. Light activates the outer dial to glow in the dark.
This model includes a chart for angle, gradient, and distance conversions on the back for extra convenience in your calculations. Unlike other lensatic compasses that have a flip-up optic, the Eyeskey has an adjustable diopter sighting lens built into the unit – similar to that used in rifles. It also comes with an 18” lanyard and a carry pouch for easy storage while you are finding your way.
Bottom Line
Although the Eyeskey Multifunctional Military Army Compass is a great tool to have at your disposal if you get lost on your next hunting trip, it does have a few drawbacks. It advertises itself as a military grade compass, though it lacks the flip-up optic and mil readings of most lensatic compasses. At eight ounces, it feels a little heavier than other models.
The outer dial lights up in the dark, but the needle is either very dim or doesn’t light up at all. While there were some complaints that the readings were off, these were relatively minor. Although we don’t recommend the Eyeskey for night use, it makes a great product for day use.
Product Specs
Dimensions:
3.35 x 2.48 x 1.18 inches
Weight:
6.79 oz
Illumination:
Fluorescence
Type:
Lensatic
Durability Features:
Shockproof, waterproof, sandproof, and functional from -22°F to +140°F
Editor’s Pick:
Proster Professional Compass Metal Waterproof IP65
PROS
CONS
Review
The Proster Professional Compass Metal Waterproof IP65 is very similar to the Eyeskey model with a slightly better design. For that reason, it is our editor’s pick for the best hunting compass. This budget-friendly lensatic floating needle model includes a clinometer to measure slope and height differences if you are lost in rugged terrain.
The aluminum metal case is water-resistant and shake-proof, with a conversion chart listed on the back. Unlike the Eyeskey, the Proster IP65 lies completely flat on a map, with measurements along the edges in inches and centimeters. This helps you plot your way to your nearest destination after you use the rotating bezel to set your heading.
The Proster has an adjustable diopter sighting lens with a folding thumb ring so that you can comfortably read the device by resting it against your cheek. If you get lost at night, the needle and the compass card glow in the dark – the longer it is exposed to natural or artificial light, the longer it will glow. The Proster Professional also comes with a carry bag and a rope for easy transport during your hunting adventures.
Bottom Line
We like the Proster Professional Compass Metal Waterproof IP65 more than the Eyeskey version because it has the same survival features that you need in a sticky situation without so many drawbacks.
While it does give accurate readings, the Proster needs to be completely flat to do so. At 11.2 ounces, it is one of the heaviest on our list. However, the Proster compass’ accuracy and durability make it a valuable tool to have with you on your next hunting trip.
Product Specs
Dimensions:
4.53 x 3.27 x 1.85 inches
Weight:
11.64 oz
Illumination:
Fluorescence
Type:
Floating Needle
Durability Features:
Waterproof and shakeproof
Best for the Money:
GWHOLE Military Lensatic Sighting Compass
PROS
CONS
Review
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative, the GWHOLE Military Lensatic Sighting Compass has many of the same features of their more expensive counterparts. This lensatic compass is a floating needle with a screw hole on the bottom for mounting on a tripod. This gives you the option for an even more accurate reading.
Like the Proster, the GWHOLE has a sighting lens and a foldable thumb ring to read it by placing it against your cheek comfortably. This model has a shake-proof camouflage metal casing that is resistant to most weather conditions, with a conversion chart for distance, gradient, and angle on the back.
The GWHOLE also has a glow-in-the-dark capability. The longer that it has access to sunlight or artificial light, the longer that the needle and the card will illuminate in the dark. This product comes with an 18” lanyard attached for looping it around your wrist or neck, as well as a storage pouch for when you aren’t using it.
Bottom Line
While the GWHOLE Military Lensatic Sighting Compass is extremely budget-friendly, it isn’t exactly a precision instrument. It has all of the benefits of a non-military grade lensatic model, but the measurements are a few degrees off. This isn’t a device you would want to use in a survival situation.
However, the low price makes it an excellent tool for teaching. You can use it to instruct your children how to use a compass in a survival situation or for basic navigation. If you do bring this one on your next hunting trip, make sure you have a back-up navigational aid.
Product Specs
Dimensions:
2.76 x 2.05 x 0.98 inches
Weight:
6.17 oz
Illumination:
Fluorescence
Type:
Lensatic
Durability Features:
Waterproof and shakeproof
Best Hunting Knife with Compass in Handle:
Amazon Jungle Survival Knife with Sheath
PROS
CONS
Review
When you look in your go-bag, you always have a survival knife and a compass. What if you could combine those two tools into one? The Amazon Jungle Survival Knife with Sheath does just that. This survival knife has a compass in the handle that might be useful if you get lost. The compass detaches from the hollow handle where there is a stored survival kit.
The kit includes a fishing hook and line, needles and thread, a safety pin, matches, and striking paper. While the compass on this knife is very basic, the most impressive feature of this item is the blade itself. The stainless steel sawback blade is corrosion-resistant, and it is useful for quick cutting and trimming that you would use in any hunting or survival situation.
Bottom Line
The reaction to the Amazon Jungle Survival Knife with Sheath is about 50/50: people either love it or they hate it. It’s more like a novelty item than an actual survival knife. The construction is pretty flimsy and won’t hold up to any intense use, but it has a quality, stainless steel blade. The compass is nowhere near the precision you would need to get out of the woods – you could use it for basic direction only. However, this would make a great joke gift for the avid hunter in your life.
Best Hunting Watch with Compass:
Casio Men's Pro Trek PRG-270-1
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
This watch is the ideal compass with the right size, and you can operate it with winter gloves on. The response time from all controls is also quick. It also has an auto-light that activates when you flick your arm, which makes this watch very convenient and easy to use at night.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It stands out because it has a very accurate compass that works well thanks to the ProTrek Version 3 Triple Sensor. However, that’s not it. It is also a full-fledged watch with time display, stopwatch, and alarm, which will help you take one device instead of many small ones on your long hiking and trekking trips.
Bottom Line
All in all, this option is the most suitable for long trips in the forest or mountains since it is accurate and has various functionalities included in one device. Furthermore, its night light makes it suitable for use in the dark too.
Product Specs
Dimensions:
0.59 x 0.59 x 0.59 inches
Weight:
11.2 oz
Illumination:
LED
Type:
Digital
Durability Features:
Water resistant and functional up 14°F
Aspects to Consider Before Buying a Compass For Hunting
Below are some of the most important aspects to keep in mind:
Your Compass is a Magnet, Keep it Away From Anything That Has a Magnetic Charge
The needle is magnetized to line up with Earth’s magnetic north. Any contact with other magnetized items can ruin the magnetic charge, making the device less accurate. Any items in your go-bag or your vehicle – like your radio or your cell phone – can change the magnetic charge of your needle.
Is Your Compass Weatherproof? Exposure to the Elements Can Ruin a Compass Without This Protection
Most products on the market have some protection against the elements, but are you getting the best for your money? Make sure that your device stands up to all of the elements. Look for metal or high-grade polymer materials that offer shatterproof protection. Also, any compass that is resistant to water, wind, sand, and extreme hot and cold temperatures will keep your instrument working exactly when you need it.
How Heavy is Your Compass? In a Survival Situation, Every Ounce Counts
Most are lightweight enough to carry in a pocket or a go-bag. However, with all of your other survival gear, will your compass weigh you down? When shopping around, try to find the lightest device that has all of the features you want. We suggest not carrying one that weighs any more than a pound. It doesn’t sound heavy, but it matters if you get lost in the woods!
Can You See Your Compass in the Dark? Make Sure Your Orienting Lines, Magnetic Needle, and Direction of Travel Indicator Glow in the Dark
If you get lost in the woods at night, will you be able to find your way? Many of these products are light-activated, so you can make sure you are still headed in the right direction in the dark. Depending on the device, you can charge the glow-in-the-dark features by natural or artificial light (like a flashlight). This is an important feature that you don’t want to be without because it might save your life if you get lost during a severe storm or after the sun sets.
Most Importantly, Do You Know How to Use Your Compass?
Before you bring your compass on your next hunting trip, learn how to use it. Read the directions that come with your instrument, and consult the several YouTube videos available on the subject. Always be prepared to use it, even if you don’t have to.
How to Use a Compass
A compass is one of the ten essentials that people on an outdoor expedition must take with them. Most mountain hikers and trekkers use it. Luckily, it is also easy to use. If you have a good map and a little know-how, you will be able to use it without any issue.
- Adjust your compass to cater to the difference between magnetic north and true north.
- You will find the difference in certain degrees east or west at the bottom of your map.
- After setting the declamation, you should prepare to use it with your map.
- Put the compass on a map and figure out where on the map you are.
- Then locate the point you want to go to.
- Now follow the direction of the compass in that direction.
- Make sure to align the north and south of the compass with the north and south of the map.
- If you don’t know where you are, then try finding a landmark and take its location on the map as your position.
In case you still have any confusion, be sure to check out the following video for a better understanding of the steps mentioned above.
Conclusion
When you are lost in the woods, you are only as good as the tools you have with you. You’ll never find your way out without a quality compass to guide you. Having a durable product that delivers precision readings can potentially turn a dangerous situation into a story you can tell your friends about over a beer later. Keeping a compass with you – and knowing how to use it – is essential for any serious hunter.
People Also Ask
Using a compass is not an easy task, and it can be especially daunting for first-time users. Hence, we have answered some frequently asked questions in hopes that you will feel at ease with your compass and explore the woods with confidence while being fair to the spirit of exploration.
How Does a Compass Work?
A compass basically works because of the Earth’s natural magnetic fields. It detects them and then shows the direction of north and south from your current location. The magnetic field basically exists because of the Earth’s iron core.
What is a Compass Rose?
The figure or map on the compass that displays the orientation of north, south, east, and west is called a compass rose. It is also known as windrose.
What is a Magnetic Compass?
A magnetic compass is the most basic type. It operates in accordance with the magnetic field of the Earth and detects the magnetic north as its north instead of the actual north. It is, however, adjusted to match the true north by trekkers and hikers before their trips.
What is a Lensatic Compass?
Lensatic compasses are basically used by the U.S. military, which is why they are also called military compasses. These operate on the same basic principles; it only has an extra lens on the rear side that will magnify the readings on the card dial. In this way, you will be able to take more accurate readings.
Should a Compass Have an Air Bubble?
Initially, a compass doesn’t have an air bubble; however, some air bubbles might form in the compass with changes in temperature and atmospheric pressure. If they are small, they won’t affect the accuracy of your compass, so you shouldn’t worry. However, big bubbles can cause problems.
Are Cheap Compasses Accurate?
Yes, cheap or affordable compass work just as fine as some of the expensive counterparts. The detection of magnetic fields is more or less the same. Hence, you don’t have to spend a hefty sum for a compass, especially since even the expensive ones are not 100% accurate.
How Does a Compass Work?
Even though you can’t feel it, the Earth has a natural magnetic force: our planet is pretty much like one big magnet. Just like any magnet you’ve used in science class, the Earth has two poles: a magnetic north pole and a magnetic south pole. Since opposite poles are attracted to each other, the magnetic needle is drawn to the Earth’s magnetic north. No matter where you are, if your compass is working correctly, it will always point north.
How to Read a Compass
When you look at your compass, you will see lots of markings on the card. These will help you read your compass when you are trying to find your way. The card has the four cardinal directions – North (N), South (S), East (E), and West (W). It also has markings for 360 degrees, which will help you find your bearing.
To read a compass, you should first place it on the map and align the north and south of the map to the north and south of the compass. Then you should highlight your current location and the location that you want to go to. Measure the distance and direction between both points by the rules and pointers of your compass and start your journey.
Hold your device straight and level in front of you. The needle will move and point towards the north. Rotate the bezel ring to line up the orienting arrow with the needle. This will orient your direction of travel in relation to north. Once you have lined up the orienting arrow with the needle, look at the direction or degree indicated by the index pointer and the direction of travel arrow on the base plate of the compass. This shows you in which direction you are traveling.
