Suunto M-3 NH Compass

2021-12-11T08:31:25

The Sunnto M-3 D/L compass that I ordered is just what I was looking for. A quality easy to use compass that goes with me every time I hike.

RANDY P.

2020-03-18T15:46:25

So far so good but need more field uses ... that could change my opinions fast

Michael C.

2018-05-01T07:40:33

This is a "classic" compass. Declination can be adjusted with a metal key that fits an adjustement screw on the back.

Gustavo S.

2018-02-24T19:00:00

I have owned a couple of Sunnto Vector watches since 2000 and also a couple of compasses, but without adjustable declination. I love Sunnto products. I lived in Finland for a short period of time and I trust their quality.

Alxmountainman

Originally posted at

2017-02-01T17:02:40

I have used map and compass professionally for over 30 years and even longer for backpacking, hiking, wilderness canoeing, and backcountry hunting. The Suunto M-3 is the best combination of accuracy, function, compactness and quality of construction available. The M-3 has an adjustable declination, which allows you to compensate for the difference between magnetic north and true north, which varies depending on where you live. Note that some compasses advertise a “declination scale,” but this is not the same as an adjustable declination, which is best for accurate map reading and following bearings in the field. If you only want a compass to give you a basic heading of north/south/east west so you don’t get completely lost, most any $10-$15 compass without and adjustable declination. Otherwise get the M-3. The M-3 D/L is balanced for the northern Hemisphere. The M-3 Global is not needed north of the equator, but Suunto’s global needle works really well event if the compass is tipped. The Silva Explorer Pro is similar in design, but unfortunately Silva North America is not the same company as the original Silva of Sweden and the quality has suffered. I recently bought an Explorer Pro but returned it due to poor quality. See my review here. If you are new to map and compass I suggest you get a good book because the instructions that come with any compass are not enough. The classic is “Be Expert with Map and Compass” by Bjorn Kellstrom. It’s still a great book, but unfortunately even the revised edition does not discuss compasses with adjustable declination. I recently purchased “Wilderness Navigation: Finding Your Way Using Map, Compass, Altimeter & GPS” by Bob and Mike Burns for a directionally challenged friend and it’s a very comprehensive and practical book.

Robert B.