I'm thinking of getting a compass to go on my watch band and was wondering if anyone has any opinions on this type of compass in general, or the Suunto Clipper Compass in particular. This model comes in several colors, but I found a one with a louminous face today that I like. I realize that I'm not going to win any orienteering contests with it, but it seems like a good idea. Just wondering what everyone thinks.

Thanks.
Chris.

I've got 3 or 4 of these stashed in various kits. You're right that you won't win an orienteering competition with them, but they are a lot better than standard 'button' compasses as they possess a rotating bezel and the clip of course. They're still tiny enough for a psk but very stable and easy to read. I'm a fan. BY the way mine were bought from a diving shop, not a hiking shop. In the UK divers are notoriously tight and the price was about £2 less than in a hiking shop. The diving versions are all black with a 'slightly' luminous face. Hope this helps.

Does anyone have a website where I could see it or buy one?

Frank

I have a couple of the clippers attached to kit bag straps. They seem pretty solid and I like them much more than just a simple button compass as a backup. You won't be doing lots of nighttime navigation with the "luminous" dial, but it serves it's purpose. BTW Silva makes a model that is very similar, but I don't have any personal experience.

I have a couple of the Clippers, and like them, but one has developed a tiny bubble. I HATE it when they do that- you never really know whether the bubble will stay the same size or continue to grow, and it sort of ruins your faith in the compass.

after spending about an hour looking for one of these things the only place i've managed to find one is www.cotswoldoutdoors.com, probably not much use to you in the US i know, but at least you can get an image of one there.

take it easy.
stuart.

I wear and regularly use my Suunto clipper in navigating the LA area freeways: mainly as a guide when exiting an off-ramp to re-align my bearings before proceeding toward my destination. I originally purchased my clipper at my local REI, though you could probably buy one on their website: http://www.rei.com. Good Luck.

I'm wearing one now. It's been with me for an entire year of weekend expeditions, too. I'm a big fan. It's big enough to help me with rough navigation but small and handy enough to have with me all the time.

Contrary to dire predictions, it hasn't shown the least inclination to pop off.

I have an almost identical compass on order, but this one is produced by Silva. It has a black bezel but a white face. That should match my Timex Explorer better.

Bear

Try: http://www.thecompassstore.com/

They carry it (7.49).

I've ordered from them in the past and they seem to have alot in stock and ship fast.

Thanks to all for your tips and advice. I think I'll stop and pick one up on the way home tonight. Thanks again.

Chris.

In UK, another brand to consider is Recta.

You can also get them at Brigade Quartermaster's (ActionGear.com):

http://tinyurl.com/s3dj

I'm lucky that the world headquarters for this store is about 10 minutes from my house. On the other hand, more of my money than should ends up being traded for some of the fun stuff in their warehouse!