Thanks for the recommendation chaos, looking into that one on amazon.

hikermor, I didn't really think compass technology had changed all that much (which would certainly explain the lack of newer threads for them) but as I noticed the Suunto MC-2 getting harder to find, and as others have mentioned the changes that can happen over a year or two in the build quality, I thought I might ask to see if there are any other options available. As far as the use goes, I anticipate whatever map and compass or orienteering exercises DS might encounter in his scouting adventures (I do know they will need a reliable compass, as well as their ranger beads, to take a pretty precise bearing and go a certain distance to find hidden treasure for a Scout vs Wild camp out they have coming up in January).

AFLM, I see the MC-2 recommended a LOT, thanks for the source

Tom, I am disappointed to learn that the quality of the Suunto has decreased.

I was wondering about the purpose of the mirror on a compass? Other than it's obvious utilitarian use what is the purpose? In my mind I'm seeing it maybe being used to make sure you maintain your compass bearing as you get a line of sight (I'm sorry I'm not well versed in compass speak, I hope I said all that correctly). I almost ALWAYS have a dedicated signal mirror that goes with me so I'm not that worried about the utilitarian and signal mirror usage. If it has other important usage related to the compass I'd be interested to know.

thanks again everyone