My friend that is helping me has a sextant. I'm not sure the brand/model, but it is a decent quality metal one, it cost about $650-ish I think he said (or was it $850-ish?). More expensive than I'm willing to pay for just learning this for fun. I doubt I will ever truly "navigate" with a sextant, books and charts, I'll just learn the skills required and practice for fun. Even though he said he'll help me using his sextant, I may buy a less expensive plastic one for my own practice when he's not around. Who knows though, I may end up buying a nice metal one. I like owning and admiring high quality well made precision things, whatever they may be!