10 Best Hiking Compasses 2025 in the United States

The TurnOnSport Orienteering Compass is designed to be a versatile navigation tool suitable for hikers, campers, scouts, and anyone interested in outdoor activities. Its acrylic baseplate with azimuth bearing, 360-degree rotating bezel, and liquid-filled capsule ensures that the magnetic needle swings freely and points accurately north. This helps with precise navigation, which is crucial for outdoor adventures.

The built-in magnifying glass is beneficial for reading geological maps, and the 1:24000 scale ruler aids in detailed route mapping. One of the standout features is its lightweight and portable design, making it easy to carry on field trips, whether by children or adults. The lanyard mount adds to its convenience and portability.

However, there are some downsides to consider. The compass lacks a sighting mirror, which can be helpful for more accurate bearings over long distances. Additionally, there is no mention of declination adjustment capability, which is essential for adjusting for magnetic variation in different geographic locations. The luminescent markings are not mentioned, which can be a disadvantage in low-light conditions. While the TurnOnSport Orienteering Compass meets many key criteria for hiking compasses, it may not be ideal for advanced users who need specific features like a sighting mirror and declination adjustment.

The SUUNTO unisex adult Northern Hemisphere compass, specifically the MC-2 NH US model, is a highly reliable tool for serious hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. This advanced navigational compass includes features such as a sighting mirror and hole, ensuring precise directional measurements. One of its standout attributes is needle stability, which is crucial for accurate navigation. Additionally, it is equipped with a fixed declination adjustment system, allowing users to correct for magnetic declination, ensuring even greater accuracy in readings.

The compass also includes luminescent markings, making it operable in low light conditions, which is a significant advantage for early morning or night-time excursions. Its composite build and manufacture in Finland speak to its durability and build quality, essential for withstanding harsh outdoor environments. However, a potential drawback is its specific design for the Northern Hemisphere, which limits its use for those planning expeditions in the Southern Hemisphere. Another minor concern could be the fixed declination adjustment which might not suit everyone’s preference for adjustable settings.

Nevertheless, this compass is particularly suited for activities like Alpine skiing, hiking, trekking, mountain biking, and trail running. With over 80 years of experience, SUUNTO has crafted a compass that combines advanced engineering with a user-friendly design, making it a highly dependable choice for navigating the great outdoors without the need for batteries.

The Cammenga Olive Drab Genuine Military Lensatic Phosphorescent Compass is a robust and durable compass designed to withstand harsh conditions, making it an excellent choice for avid hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its waterproof and sand-proof design, coupled with a powder-coated aluminum frame, ensures longevity and reliability in various environments, from hiking trails to military operations. This compass is used by the US military, which attests to its precision and dependability in survival situations.

The lensatic design allows for accurate readings, while the phosphorescent markings enhance visibility in low light conditions, ensuring you can navigate even after sunset. However, it is worth noting that this model does not feature a declination adjustment or a sighting mirror, which could be a drawback for some users who prioritize these features for more precise navigation. Additionally, at 7.36 ounces, it is slightly on the heavier side compared to other hiking compasses.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Cammenga compass's build quality and professional-grade performance make it a solid option for those who need a reliable and sturdy navigation tool in the great outdoors.