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Get a good navigation book (I recommend "Map & Compass" by Bjorn Hjellstrom). The instructions didn't say how to adjust for declination, but you use the attached screwdriver blade on the screw at the top of the bezel ring. I'm so glad I researched compasses because the old standby compass that was the industry standard is now made by Brunton so you can't go by the old name anymore (I don't recall what it was). This compass has all the nice extras that make it very easy to use including the mirror and declination adjustment.
This is the Compass you can pass down to your grandson or granddaughter. Note that this is the real deal, made in Sweden not in China. Worth every penny.
The Brunton site shows this compass and states this is the "original model 15" and that it is "probably the most famous compass in the world". and took a good look at this new version. This is a newer version of the truely "original" model 15 that was indeed "probably the most famous compass in the world". I have the "old" original model 15 (black dial) and have used it for years.
The old model has a slightly longer base plate and a stronger hinge, it also has a couple more luminous points. After a thorough examination I did not purchase it. It is certainly accurate and very practical in the field; but so is the old one. Like I said, this is not a bad compass, but it does have some minor shortcomings when compared to the truely original model 15. The old one has a a very nice positive clasp latch on the base plate to hold the mirror lid closed, this newer version has an inferior notch and tab closure. Both statements are false.
I am not saying this is a bad compass, it's just not as good as my old one. If it had a global needle so it could be used anywhere in the world I would rate it 5 stars, but that feature can only be found on a few Suunto compasses; even the better latch would raise it to 5 stars. It's a pity Brunton quit making that excellent old compass and replaced it with this new one that is a step down in design quality. I decided it might be time to get a new one (I'm a gadget freak).
I plan to use the compass for scouting activities to help the boys learn about orienteering, but I think this compass is too complex (and expensive). The adjustable declination feature is great, it should help accuracy greatly. for kids to handle. I haven't had a chance to use this in the field as of yet, but the quality of the unit is very impressive. The dial turns freely, but had no slop in it what so ever.
I'm really impressed and I recommend it without reservation. While I haven't abused the compass, it's construction tells me that it can take a beating. Hats off to Amazon.com for getting it to me in one day - shipped for free. Over the years I have owned several compasses, and this one is, hands down, the best. It is well thought out, easy to use and has a fantastic array of features for a $50 compass.
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