
Imported.
Item 408059
Specification | Description |
| Weight | 0.3 ounce |
| Dimensions | 2 x 1.1 inches |
| Increments | 10 degrees |
| Declination adjustment | No |
| Liquid filled | Yes |
| Sighting Mirror | No |
| Clinometer | No |
| Magnifying lens | No |
Reviewed by 5 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-5
Pros
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Comments about REI Mini Compass:
I have one of these things on every pack I own. It isn’t intended for orienteering, and does not offer that kind of functionality. But, it is fit for purpose. I carry a “good” compass too for map reading. But in a situation where you, or others, might start questioning the primary instrument, it is nice to have a backup to settle the question “is that thing working?” (it happens).
I have not made the transition to the nearly omnipresent GPS, so I don’t worry about batteries or signal strength. But, I would think a cheap little compass would be indispensible as a back up for those techies that have.
I also have one stuffed in the bottom of my enhanced 10 essentials kit that I hope never sees daylight. In a real bind, I can ditch everything else and take the kit on an ultra light, express trek back to civilization.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Mini Compass:
This little compass is compact and works fine. I use it when I need to know approximately where north is; it's too small for really accurate travel but that's too be expected.
I suspect other reviewers were using it near metal (e.g., inside car, big ring of keys, etc.) which could definitely skew the compass (that's why there are a set of correction magnets built into car-based compasses).
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Mini Compass:
It worked fine in the store. However, the first time I took it out of my glove box to assist me when I needed it failed. It points directly in the opposite direction. (IE: Needle indicates North when in reality it is pointing directly south)
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Mini Compass:
I own one for about four years and still hangs on my key chain. Yes, when I bought it I did not know metal would adversely affect it. I still have it on my keychain for one reason only. Too remind me to purchase things with more thought and not just cause they look fun. It has darkened either from the lint in my pocket or being next to my keys. It is almost completely black and looks like it has been exposed to severe smoke rings. It has a bubble in it and really would be used only for just getting your bearings but not for any further use. You could purchase it and keep in a first aid kit or in a pfd for a back up to a back up. It would not hurt to have it stuffed somewhere as an alternate use. But, do not pick it for primary or even secondary use. It is too limited and has no other functions or other versatile uses other than pointing you in a direction that is not true north. If you have minimal expectations and just want to find magnetic north, buy it. Any other reasons to have it or use it, then keep looking around.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Mini Compass:
I use this as a backup to my GPS. It's ultra light and works for getting your general bearings. I keep it hooked to the shoulder strap of my backpack and periodically check it to confirm my direction of travel.
Displaying reviews 1-5
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