The Suunto A-30 is indeed a reliable baseplate compass, and it’s a fantastic choice for those venturing into extreme conditions. The compact design and rugged construction make it an excellent companion for outdoor enthusiasts, whether you're hiking in the mountains or navigating through dense forests. Its adjustable declination scale is particularly helpful for fine-tuning your bearing according to magnetic variation.
The Earth’s magnetic field doesn’t flow evenly between the magnetic poles, which is why Suunto compasses use two different balancing systems to ensure accurate readings. One system is a two-zone design, with needles specifically balanced for either the northern or southern hemisphere, making it ideal for users who primarily navigate in one hemisphere. The other system is a globally balanced design, where a single needle is balanced to work anywhere on Earth.
This is achieved through a breakthrough construction that allows the needle and magnet to tilt independently, offering precision for trekkers who travel across various regions or need a compass that works worldwide. Depending on your needs and where you’ll be using the compass, choosing the right balancing system can make all the difference in ensuring reliable navigation.
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KEY FEATURES OF THE A-30 NH COMPASS
- High grade steel needle with jewel bearing
- Balanced for northern hemisphere
- Fixed declination correction scale
- Liquid filled capsule for stable operation
- Luminescent markings for working in low light
- Imperial scales
- Baseplate with magnifying lens
- Control marking holes
- Detachable snap-lock lanyard. Easy to detach for working with the map
- Suunto limited lifetime warranty
- Made in Finland
