Buy a compass from Recon Company – battery-free navigation for operations and the outdoors

When GPS fails, only the needle counts. Buying a compass means relying on the oldest and most reliable navigation instrument in the field – with over 30 years’ experience as a supplier to the German Armed Forces and government agencies, we know what really matters. Whether it’s a bearing compass for precise azimuth work, a map compass for use with topographical maps, or a compact pocket compass as a backup: the right choice depends on the operational requirements, not on price alone.

Bearing compass, mirror compass or map compass – which type is right for you?

The different designs differ fundamentally in function and intended use. A bearing compass with a hinged cover and sighting device enables precise bearings to be taken on points in the terrain – standard for military orientation and surveying. A mirror compass also features a mirror in the cover, so that the compass rose and the target object are visible at the same time. The result: greater bearing accuracy, especially at a distance.

A map compass (plate compass) has a transparent base plate with a ruler and a plan pointer. This allows you to work directly on the map – set a bearing, read the direction of travel, and measure distances. For simple map work during training or when hiking, a basic map compass costing from five euros is sufficient. Anyone who needs to take precise bearings in the field whilst working with a map at the same time requires a mirror compass with a base plate.

Bundeswehr compasses and marching compasses – equipment for service use

The Bundeswehr Breithaupt Conat IV compass is the standard model used by the German armed forces. With a metal casing, damping fluid, luminous markings for night-time use and a carrying loop for the belt – this marching compass is designed for years of service use. The Breithaupt compass uses a scale system (6400 divisions), as is standard in military training. Anyone who calculates reports using divisions cannot do without this instrument.

For reservists, instructors and general field service, alternatives to the BW compass in Ranger format are a cost-effective option. These lensatic models operate on the same basic principle, but are available at a fraction of the price. For formal combat training involving reports in lines, however, the Breithaupt compass is the standard of choice.

Suunto and Silva compasses – the professional segment for outdoor activities and expeditions

Two brands dominate the civilian and professional outdoor sectors: Suunto and Silva. The Suunto MC-2 Mirror compass is a mirror compass featuring a clinometer for measuring slope inclination, adjustable declination and a phosphorescent-coated rose. The MB-6 series features global needles that work worldwide without any zone restrictions – relevant for operations outside the northern hemisphere.

The Silva Expedition 360 Global compass also features a Global needle and is suitable for expeditions at all latitudes. The Ranger S from Silva has a fast-settling capsule and a robust casing that performs just as well when used as a hiking compass in low mountain ranges as it does in a Scandinavian winter. The Spike Jet series is designed for orienteering – compact, thumb-mounted compasses for quick decisions in the woods.

What to look for when buying a compass

Liquid-damped capsules are essential. Without damping, the needle swings uncontrollably when in motion – rendering it unusable whilst running or on rough terrain. Luminescent markings on the rose and north arrow enable night-time use without a torch. Anyone travelling globally needs a global needle rather than a zone-specific needle, which tilts in other hemispheres.

A clinometer is not a toy: slope gradients determine avalanche risk, passability and tactical positions. Adjustable magnetic declination saves you having to do calculations when working with maps. A metal casing withstands the knocks that would shatter a plastic compass in a rucksack – though in the budget range, these simple models certainly serve their purpose as a backup or training tool.

Our range of navigation equipment covers the entire spectrum – from pocket compasses costing less than five euros to the Bundeswehr Breithaupt Conat IV compass. If you’re unsure which compass suits your specific needs, our specialist advice service will provide you with a specific recommendation.

• Liquid-damped compasses from Suunto, Silva and Breithaupt – ready for use from basic training right through to expeditions
• From pocket compasses starting at 1.95 euros to the Breithaupt Conat IV compass for 309.95 euros – every usage profile covered
• 10% discount for public sector organisations, police, fire services and members of the civil protection services
• Worldwide field post delivery – compasses and accessories sent directly to the field
• Expert advice from the team in Salzgitter or online, ISO 9001-certified processes from procurement to dispatch