Suunto A-30 NH Compass

The Suunto A-30 compass is what orienteers, hikers, and hunters reach for when they want a reliable baseplate compass from a brand that has built navigation instruments since 1936. The NH (Northern Hemisphere) balanced needle gives accurate readings across North America and Europe without the needle drag that globe-balanced needles develop at extreme northern latitudes. For the practical user, this means a compass that works correctly and reads without ambiguity the first time you check a bearing.

Suunto A-30 Features for Map and Compass Navigation

The transparent baseplate allows map placement directly under the compass for bearing-and-pace navigation without holding the map and compass separately. Built-in map scales in 1:24,000 and 1:25,000 cover USGS and most standard topo map scales, which are the maps serious backcountry users carry. The declination correction scale lets you adjust for the difference between magnetic north and true north in your region — a calculation that matters significantly in the western US and Alaska where declination can exceed 20 degrees.

• Northern Hemisphere balanced needle — accurate and drag-free across North America
• Transparent baseplate for map overlay navigation
• 1:24,000 and 1:25,000 map scales match USGS topo and most standard navigation maps
• Declination correction scale for true north adjustment
• Suunto build quality — liquid-filled capsule prevents bubble formation and needle bounce
• Compact baseplate fits in a shirt pocket or pack lid pouch

A compass is the GPS backup that works when the battery dies, the signal drops, or the device breaks. The Suunto A-30 is the right one to carry if you're serious about not getting lost.