You are right on the money. Every backpacker should carry a compass and know how to take and follow a bearing. Excellent video Living Survival. That's a great choice for a compass.
A little tip to change the declination on the TruAcr compass : use a grip cloth like a small piece stretch/exercise ribbon or a jar grip. I now carry a 3" square Thera-band elastic ribbon to grip the top and bottom of the clear compass to change the declination. My fingers were raw trying to do it without. Does the trick. Without it it's a PIA trying to move that with only your fingers as the instructions tell you.
Really, are you kidding me, something in your eye, a signal mirror?? Yes you can use the mirror in these ways but I would suggest reading the manual and then you might discover it's true purpose. The mirror is used for sighting distant points to acquire navigational data. This is actually the true purpose of a compass used in conjuction with a map. Good luck on your future compass videos. Wait, I have something in my eye, now where is that compass with the handy "I have something in my eye compass mirror"?
obviously that is the intended use of the mirror. also obviously you have never been in the woods so you don't think outside the box and know that your tools should be multi-purpose. but thanks for the comment from your couch.
Seriously, you're mocking the guy who told you the real purpose of the mirror? Do you think you're thinking outside the box by using a mirror to look at yourself? LOL. Come on, dude, just take the criticism in good humor.
Good review on the TruArc compasses! I think having the adjustable declination is a plus with these compasses. I agree, get your bearing or azimuth when heading out and then use your back or reverse azimuth when heading back to where you started. I think also having a small notebook is important to write down coordinates, approx. distances, any deviations etc., if really getting off trail.
Thank you for the video. A lot of things to know about how to use a compass. We appreciate you sharing your experience of getting lost and talking about the importance of having a compass when going into the woods.
I had a similar situation but I climbed to the top of a hill and used the rifle scope put it on 24 power and scanned for my truck or my other rifle put it on 21 power and looked around walked back to my truck both times and went home
The mirror is NOT for seeing things in your eye, or signaling. Did you SEE the line down the center of it? You did not mention the direct-reading elevation angle feature (the extra red needle).
🤣 I was wondering how many comments I would read before someone said something about that. That compass needs some scars on it before I listen to the owner giveing me directions. Especially after he tells me the mirror is for looking in. 🤣
Getting lost is no joke for sure it don't matter how old you are panic will happen fast. As for the compass, the mirror is for sighting but I have never understood how to use it. But a base plate compass is one of the best in my opinion. I have used them many times just to locate property corners for friends and family.
The mirror is to see the dial, simultaneous with sighting a distant object. On the TruArc 15, it functions this way for both bearings as well as elevation angles.
Both of those look like really good options. My kids are getting old enough to outfit them with gear as well and good compasses have been on my shirt list. I'll check these out. Thanks!
Really good mate. I use compasses in the field doing geological mapping, but would really like to know how to navigate on a map using one. Bring on the tutorials!
I prefered their old circle north needle. made it easier to set red in bed. sadly my last truarc 7 got tiny grains of dirt and jammed my declination in place. Im looking for a replacement but find myself disliking the aesthetics of these new needles.
Why cool. You removed the white vinyl donut from the bottom of the compass housing. Thereby giving you a larger clear window to see the orienting lines. In most videos or pictures I see online. Most people are not removing it.
I don't have one at the moment but I know that it is something that I need to add to my gear and learn how to use. I do have the little multi tool thing with a button compass and thermometer on it though!
The easiest way is to just do it manually with out adjusting it. And It is easy to do. [But first remember it does not matter what the magnetic declination is - if you are not using the compass and map together. You only need to account for magnetic declination if converting between magnetic north bearings taken with the compass, and grid north/true north bearings measured on the map] Two Manual methods: Measure the bearing on the map. By using the compass as a protractor. Place the compass parallel to the line running from where you are to where you want to go. Then turn the compass housing so that the orienting lines, printed on the bottom of the compass housing, are parallel to the north-south UTM grid lines on the map. That will be your bearing (aka azimuth) referenced to grid north. Method A: If for example, magnetic declination is 8˚ west. Just turn the compass ring 8˚ ccw, (toward west) and your compass is adjusted correctly for 8˚west magnetic declination. So if your bearing taken off the map was 120˚ it will now be changed to 128˚. And correctly adjusted for 8˚ west magnetic declination. Method B: Then stand up an turn until the magnetic needle is centered in the orienting arrow printed on the bottom of the compass housing. Then kneel down on one knee. Place the compass flat on your leg, with the magnetic needle still centered inside the red orienting arrow, [ what many people like to call, putting Red Fred in the Shed.] [ the magnetic declination scale is centered on the South side of the compass housing. (at 180˚) For west declination the scale runs ccw from S to E. For east declination the scale runs cw from South to West] Next turn the compass base (not the degree ring) until the v-notch in the end of the south end of the magnetic needle aligns with the number of degrees of magnetic declination. For example 10˚east. Next hold the compass base from moving as you turn the compass ring to again put Red Fred in the Shed, though in this process you are really moving the Shed to be underneath where Red Fred is pointing. You find you turning the compass ring cw for east magnetic declination. (or ccw for west magnetic declination) So if your magnetic declination was 10˚east, and the bearing taken off the map was 260˚, after the adjustment your compass will be set to a bearing (aka azimuth) of 250˚. Making the sit it once and forget it magnetic declination to the compass housing: Pinch the center of the compass housing between thumb and index finger, (or which every way works best for you to hold only the center of the compass housing) Then with your other hand turn the compass ring. When you do this the orienting arrow will turn and no longer remain parallel to the orienting lines printed on the bottom of the compass housing. You will turn it so that the south end of the the orienting arrow (the black lines) are centered on the number if degrees of magnetic declination, ( I say centered because the orienting arrow is about 12˚ wide, there is not a single thin line that will point at the number of degrees of magnetic declination) If the magnetic declination is west, the south end of the orienting arrow will move ccw over the west declination scale. If mag declination is east, the south end of the orienting arrow will move cw over the east declination scale. So for example if mag declination is 10˚ west, the south end of the orienting arrow will move ccw. Ending up centered on 10˚west, but the two black lines of the orienting arrow will be have one leg pointing at about 4˚ the other side pointing at bout 16˚, to be centered on 10˚ Or maybe this link to Brunton's video will work to illustrate how it is done. th-cam.com/video/l-eOvK4spwI/w-d-xo.html I made up this phrase to remember how to correctly make magnetic declination adjustments. [[ The Map WAvES to the Compass and the Compass WAvES Back. WAvES = West Add v East Subtract. When taking a bearing from the map to the compass. If mag declination is West. You add the number of degrees of mag declination. {turn the ring ccw adds degrees} If mag declination is East. You subtract the number of degrees of mag declination. {turn the ring cw subtracts degrees} When taking a magnetic bearing taken with the compass (the compass WAvES Back) the math function is reversed. For example if your compass bearing, say from your location to a radio tower is 48˚, and local mag declination is 7˚west, you would subtract 7˚ to arrive at 41˚ to use on the map. [WAvES Back make - West Add reverse to west subtract]
Thanks i enjoy your videos and the information you share I purchased the my sling pack based on yours and one other persons review of it and I love it I am going to order the truarc 15 for sure thanks again
I bought a truarc 15 today, and watched this to see if I had everything figured out, but I do have one question. What is the purpose of the red arrow that will rotate around the dial? And I'm not talking about the compass needle lol
Brunton markets the "tool free" declination adjustment as a good thing, but my experience with them has been seriously flawed. Bruntons generally have a lot of good other features and a tasty price point, but the declination adjustment is so problematic that I cannot recommend them. (I wanted to like them, I really did.) A better compass that has a rock solid adjustable declination and none of the extra fluff features on the Brunton is the Suunto MC-2, at about $38.
William, that's a fair question. I will preface my following comment by saying if it works for you, terrific. But that's not the case for everyone. Here's the short answer: Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't, and even experts can screw it up. Here's the long answer, along with a little story. I have always been a fan of Suunto compasses, specifically the M3 and if you want to get a little fancier, the MC-2 model. However, I noticed that my local REI store carries Brunton compasses along with Suunto. I know that many students in my navigation classes will be tempted to buy one, so I thought I should get one also and see if it's worthwhile. So, I go to my local REI, and ask to talk to the person working who knows the most about compasses. A few minutes later one of the assistant managers comes over, who also happens to be the main instructor for map and compass classes at that store. Perfect I think, a manager and the navigation teacher. I’m talking to the right person. So I ask the manager, “Can you show me how the adjustable declination works on this Brunton?" He says sure thing. He proceeds to take the compass out of its packaging, put it down on a table, make several attempts to squeeze the dial and adjust the declination . . . and then we got here a sharp “Crack!” sound. The manager, and navigation instructor, managed to break a brand-new compass within 60 seconds from taking it out of the package. It looks to me a little sheepishly, gives an embarrassed shrug of his shoulders, and says, "I probably wouldn't buy a Brunton, we've had a lot of returns from customers have done that exact same thing." I've taught wilderness navigation to hundreds of students over the years, and I would never recommend a tool or technique to anyone that I don't have 100% confidence in myself. I have since tried this on another Brunton compass, and had mixed success. It seems like you need to press down the dial in the right place with the right amount of force to get the adjustment to work. Brunton markets the “tool free” declination adjustment is an attractive feature, but let's really examine this: most people set their declination one time for the local area and never touch it again for years, and using the tiny screwdriver that comes with the Suunto, (or the tip of a knife blade if you lose your screwdriver) is idiot proof and in no way will damage your compass if you try to do it. So, the fact that you don't need a “tool” to make adjustment really is not a major selling point. Yes, the Bruntons do you cost a little bit less than the Suuntos, but in my mind that's their only advantage. This is a tool that he might save your life in certain circumstances. That's reason enough to get a good one.
I just hold the rotary dial and twist the compartment holding the needle. A little force is necessary but not much. I have the Truarc 3 and the Truarc 20. I do have a Suunto M-3 G as well. I find they all work fine.
+peter ganz peter, you're not the only one disappointed with the quality of Brunton compasses. Once they figure out the quality-control, hopefully soon, they will be worthy of my recommendation.
This video has been out for some time now, so I will assume that you already know what I am going to say. Get rid of the sun glasses when you are recording. If someone can't see your eye's, you come off as not trustworthy. If you are every negotiating a deal, take off your sunglasses. If you are going to tell your wife where the hell you've been, take off your sunglasses. You seem bright, so I assume that you understand my message. Please don't reply back and give me some BS story about why you need to have your sun glasses on. Listen to me and learn.
@@livingsurvival I thought you would be more teachable. You seem bright, so I'll give you a second chance. There is tons of research and data on this, don't let your ego get in the way of getting better.
the mirror is not intended to use for stuff in your eyes, but for sighting in your bearings over distances. Seems you too need to learn the more advanced methods of sighting in bearings using a compass with a mirror. yikes...
+Lauren Urbais i know exactly what it is for but when you are survival minded you make sure that every tool in your box has multiple uses. hence a mirror that can be used for sighing in, signaling and getting stuff out of your eyes. if you have ever walked in the woods you know a mirror can be super valuable. seems you are the one that needs to learn.
Hi there! For setting the declination on Brunton's I find it easiest to pinch the inner capsule (thumb on face, index on back) and with the other hand rotate the capsule ring (thumb on ring, index on ring). Hope this helps!
isn't the mirror and the lil hole meant for exact measuring a bearing to a landmark which you aim at through the hole? and with the mirror you look down at the numbers without moving your head?
Yes, you're able to sight the landmark and position the dial under the needle. You can then read the bearing but can just move it down and look at the bearing. The mirror does have those fringe benefits as well!
Just happened across your video randomly and its nice you're getting free items and all but figured you may wish to know that snazzy mirror with the big line down the middle, although it could of course be used as a distress signal mirror and even to look at your mug is not the intended purpose whatsoever,it is in fact what's known as a sighting mirror to be used to see the compass needle and bezel ring whether sighting or to set the bezel or dial also sometimes called the degree wheel when taking bearings while maintaning position on the target or heading thus increasing accuracy. The markings on the baseplate coincide with the scale of topographic maps typically in use by those who would be orienteering (1/24k and 1/62.5k in this case) for measuring purposes with metric on bottom....I'd politely suggest you learn the parts and function of any item you intend to demonstrate and how to properly use a compass in specific before filming your subsequent "advanced" videos ...good luck.Also someone such as myself at least would want a review to not only have features of a product (all of them in fact) but durability , accuracy, funtionality ease of use value etc. Obviously you're not in a position to offer such information at this time but as your skill progresses may be something to consider.IDK if your target audience would have the same criteria but just offering a suggestion as was suprised you host a survival channel tbh no offense but suppose there are many levels of competency and wish you all the best in furthering your abilities just would hate to see anyone especially a beginner intent on using what could amount to life saving equipment be misinformed.Few people today seem to be willing to spend the time and energy to actually learn things vs. find a quick fix solution. I would like to offer my personal opinion on the toolless declination "feature" that unless extremely firm and solid is a bad bad idea....there is a reason other brands use a tool which simply goes on the lanyard and that's so its not inadvertantly disrupted once in the backcountry and operating in that declination specific area if potential rough handling could cause an adjustment the results could be catastrophic depending upon distances involved but that's just me .I'm sure you're well aware the most important piece of gear is contained in the brain housing group and amounts to knowledge and its practical application thereof...
TheRatman969 I know what the line is for and the mirror, however, when shit hits the fan I will use it as a signal mirror before ever worrying about anything but simple direction. Also, when I am in the woods nearly every single day learning and practicing my skills I have used the mirror many more times to get something out of my eye rather than advanced compass use. I suggest to you that instead of critiquing another channel, you start your own and show everyone your vast knowledge and skills. Luck? That gave me a good laugh.
No critique just contstructive critisim based upon my backround and thus expectations of a review from someone labeling themselves in some way shape or form as a survival(ist) or even duty expert?? No need be butthurt so to speak and was sincere in wishing you the best of luck in your endeavors actually.Whether you know what the mirrors primary function or not becomes irrelevant in context of not mentioning in a review of the compass itself at least from my perspective so not a huge leap to offer such a suggestion wouldn't you agree? (can remain rhetorical of course)Why being wished luck would make you laugh is just futher affirmation of what was alluded to earlier in ref. to skillset and competency or even potential lack thereof and that applies to anyone who overestimates thier abilities including myself. Being confident in your abilities one actually posses' is good but also humble enough to know whats deficient or needing some work is the first part to survival in most any enviornment in many instances as most all "accidents" to which are rarely accidents at all typically revolve around big heads being over ones abilities and lack of knowledge . The SHTF comment and subsequent use of signal mirror aspect is reinforcement of this as of course no one can control alll aspects of being in the outdoor enviornment completely but a well prepared and skilled one would rarely encounter such circumstances as their contigency planning and preparation redundancy etc.would preclude it and even then no need cause alarm just work through the problem calmly as anythng else is recipe for disaster. I'd again politely suggest honing skills so as to hopefully never need to do so and have a SAR team have to put themselves at risk as well in first place but all emergency skills even signalling are worthwhile of course no dispute there. Won't comment further so as to cause you issue or hijack your site as not my intent but in ref to this compass which is what it really about would offer the suunto mc2 or silva ranger are most likely a better choice in my view after seing the product and hopefully still finland made vs china which is no reflection upon yourself .In response to the rest in all honesty I am not really interested in starting a channel and or filming and not in any way knocking that aspect as must be time consuming with filming , editing etc. have no clue.My plate is fairly full with other endeavors other than watching a few here and there but no question my navigation skills are far more than adequate and practical knoledge based enough to warrant comment in manner afforementioned. however that wasn't the point of the offering of ideas and viewpoint. Ego also should never play a role as even the most erudite should never cease to learn .Was simply in market for some gear to include a baseplate style compass for my waterproof map bag and gave a watch as hadn't kept up with brunton's line.....If you must know before being accused of a youtube interweb keyboard commando though I am former SGT U.S.M.C. 0351/0321 with one duty station in specific being SNCOA Camp Hansen as a weapons and tactics instructor to which the C.T.A. land navigation course, Okinawa Japan was installed personally (read by me) utilizing then new technology of gyroscopically stablilized laser guided G.P.S system w remote postition reflector accurate in MGRS to a 10digit grid.(military datum version vice lat/lon and equates to less than 1 meter error) to which then the course had to be verified i.e. run literally with simple map and compass agian by me to ensure students could handle (primarily lensatic in this case) skills which were paramount with more advanced skills such as call for fire, resection ,obstacle avoidance using offset , attack points for time savings route planning ,topo maps etc. which have civillian applications in those skills as well,.and other Infantry platoon leadership skills that do not pertain in civillian sector so no need mention being taught.I am also well versed and trained in other areas and if have any questions general or specific feel free to ask as would offer knowledge on a consultation basis free.99 if req'd but that's outside the scope of this conversation nor was it to cause feelings of inadequacy on your part. Again kudos to you in your daily fieldcraft skills practice..and anyone tuning in for that matter ...as practice never makes perfection but continual improvement afterall and many of these things are pershable skills as well.Jsut have to beware of "bad" practice as that causes training scars and can be hard to overcome is my point. My position holds on original statement of course and its relevance to safety,competancy and skill being inextricably intertwined."good luck" legit indeed.
I am no expert, and don't' claim to be. Just a guy who actually uses the products I show and pick them accordingly. Although I do get many products free of charge, and even get paid to do videos in some cases, I maintain control over the content on my channel. Meaning I don't review any item offered and believe me the offers are all day long. My response to the luck comment gave me a laugh because before this endeavor I owned a business that failed due to the economy and our country's ignorant consumers who buy based on price and not quality. It has been the hardest four years of my life and humbled me to the point of simply doing what I love and that will have to be good enough. Hence the name "Living Survival" which came to me while taking cans back to eat. Hard work is where I am now, no luck about it. I appreciate the dialog and comment. It would be nice if you did make videos. I would offer you a guest video explaining advanced compass navigation.
Check rog its all good in the youtube hood lol. .. and we have similar backrounds in regards to knowing hard times , even as it applies to business as my fields are primarily expendable income based and definitely felt the hit with the economic times, public perception as it pertains to quality vs. disposal products and services etc. Always push forward and you will persevere and if you're doing what you love never feels like just a job even when you work harder at it that's for sure. Respect your approach to this and hopefully can make some time to contribute something if you feel it may be useful.If you prefer correspond in greater detail and probably outside this forum here's my page and can get further contact info. etc. from there.can just pm facebook.com/RatzTatzInk. Have a backlog of clients currently and a impending move of both house and business amongst the other usual suspects .
TheRatman969 Once I lost my business, my house, vehicles and everything I own in addition to a mountain of debt I had no choice but to take a 9-5 job in the corporate world. I did this on the side for 3 years and finally decided to go for it. I do what I love and fully believe in the saying "you get out of it what you put into it, so that is what I do. Thanks again, I'll check out your page.
A compass is quite the important piece of gear! I love making my own path in the woods! But what if you find yourself without a compass? Do you known any good navigation techniques without one?
Jason McDaniel Using the sun and an analog watch or just picture the watch in your mind and you can tell which way is North. Videos on youtube about it.
VERY important piece of survival gear. Even if someone is not lost A compass will ensure that the shortest distance between 2 points is a straight line. I like that #15 This is an item that imo should be carried in Two's. Thanks L.S !
1) If you buy a compass, make 100% sure you have 1:25 and 1:50 scales both vertical and horizontal direction. Or what ever scales in your area are. 2) learn no navigate with a map
Great vid been looking for a compass this one sounds like a winner its decently affordable. Like your vids good details. Looking forward to the how to vids
Great job. BTW, the lanyard appears to be long enough to hang around your neck. Unfortunately, they attached the lanyard to the wrong end for doing that.
+Living Survival I mean that if you hang the device around your neck with the lanyard, it hangs from the top edge of the device instead of the bottom edge. That means that when you raise it to viewing position, the lanyard must be moved out of the viewing path. If the lanyard were attached to the opposite end, that would never be a problem. Just consider how some high-end sports stopwatches are hung from their lanyard. I know it seems like a small thing, but in a high-stress situation, every little detail can get amplified into a problem.
You are right on the money. Every backpacker should carry a compass and know how to take and follow a bearing. Excellent video Living Survival. That's a great choice for a compass.
A little tip to change the declination on the TruAcr compass : use a grip cloth like a small piece stretch/exercise ribbon or a jar grip. I now carry a 3" square Thera-band elastic ribbon to grip the top and bottom of the clear compass to change the declination. My fingers were raw trying to do it without. Does the trick. Without it it's a PIA trying to move that with only your fingers as the instructions tell you.
Really, are you kidding me, something in your eye, a signal mirror?? Yes you can use the mirror in these ways but I would suggest reading the manual and then you might discover it's true purpose. The mirror is used for sighting distant points to acquire navigational data. This is actually the true purpose of a compass used in conjuction with a map. Good luck on your future compass videos. Wait, I have something in my eye, now where is that compass with the handy "I have something in my eye compass mirror"?
obviously that is the intended use of the mirror. also obviously you have never been in the woods so you don't think outside the box and know that your tools should be multi-purpose. but thanks for the comment from your couch.
Seriously, you're mocking the guy who told you the real purpose of the mirror? Do you think you're thinking outside the box by using a mirror to look at yourself? LOL. Come on, dude, just take the criticism in good humor.
@@penssuck6453, I'm just glad he didn't suggest that for ladies, 'you can use the mirror to check your mascara.' :-)
I have used Brunton baseplate Compasses for years. I really like the truarc15, definetly need to pick one of those up.
Skills2Survive thanks for watching.
Dude... the mirror is for shooting bearings
Thanks, you just saved me the need. Sheesh. So you can look at yourself on a hike... :-)
Good review on the TruArc compasses! I think having the adjustable declination is a plus with these compasses. I agree, get your bearing or azimuth when heading out and then use your back or reverse azimuth when heading back to where you started. I think also having a small notebook is important to write down coordinates, approx. distances, any deviations etc., if really getting off trail.
Thank you for the video. A lot of things to know about how to use a compass. We appreciate you sharing your experience of getting lost and talking about the importance of having a compass when going into the woods.
I had a similar situation but I climbed to the top of a hill and used the rifle scope put it on 24 power and scanned for my truck or my other rifle put it on 21 power and looked around walked back to my truck both times and went home
The mirror is NOT for seeing things in your eye, or signaling. Did you SEE the line down the center of it? You did not mention the direct-reading elevation angle feature (the extra red needle).
The mirror is for looking at the compass dial while you are sighting a land mark, not for admiring your face.
🤣 I was wondering how many comments I would read before someone said something about that. That compass needs some scars on it before I listen to the owner giveing me directions. Especially after he tells me the mirror is for looking in. 🤣
Important part of any survival kit. Do you have a compass?
I do now lol
Getting lost is no joke for sure it don't matter how old you are panic will happen fast.
As for the compass, the mirror is for sighting but I have never understood how to use it. But a base plate compass is one of the best in my opinion. I have used them many times just to locate property corners for friends and family.
The mirror is to see the dial, simultaneous with sighting a distant object. On the TruArc 15, it functions this way for both bearings as well as elevation angles.
Both of those look like really good options. My kids are getting old enough to outfit them with gear as well and good compasses have been on my shirt list. I'll check these out. Thanks!
Feral Woodcraft The 5 is inexpensive and like it better than the Silva and more expensive Suunto.
I have a Truarc5, and changing the declination is extremely difficult, tool free might cut cost, but it detracts from the usefulness.
Great review brother! Can't wait to see your compass tutorials! Cheers, Marc
Scouting Free thank you Marc.
Excellent video on these nice compasses..
Survival On Purpose thanks, and comments work again :)
I'm sure it was that feedback I sent that did the trick ;-)
Awesome video! I've been needing a good compass and these look great. Thanks for sharing.
metaltrooper62 thanks for watching my friend.
Really good mate. I use compasses in the field doing geological mapping, but would really like to know how to navigate on a map using one. Bring on the tutorials!
I prefered their old circle north needle. made it easier to set red in bed.
sadly my last truarc 7 got tiny grains of dirt and jammed my declination in place. Im looking for a replacement but find myself disliking the aesthetics of these new needles.
Why cool. You removed the white vinyl donut from the bottom of the compass housing. Thereby giving you a larger clear window to see the orienting lines. In most videos or pictures I see online. Most people are not removing it.
I don't have one at the moment but I know that it is something that I need to add to my gear and learn how to use. I do have the little multi tool thing with a button compass and thermometer on it though!
NeoWolf I look forward to your tutorial! Thanks!
NeoWolf :)
Another winner Ben. Looks like a good piece of kit. Thanks for the review.
Chris Stiff thanks for checking it out Chris.
Have you tried a truarc 20? Which would you choose between the 15 and the 20?
Great video, thanks for making it..
looking forward to your tutorials on how to read a compass! Great stuff 😊
Kit Kat awesome, thanks.
Very nice compasses and a reputable name brand as well. Like the mirror as a bonus.
MI Timberwookie Mirror is handy dandy.
This looks like a great compass! I currently need a baseplate compass in my bag, and a map. Do you know if any retail stores sells these?
Brennan Jones REI does.
Great video, lots of info, I was thinking of buying a Brunton because it's made here but now...the declination thing...thanks!
Have you had a chance to look at the TruArc 20 yet? I'm interested in looking at that one.
+jehster i haven't.
There’s nothing as hard as setting magnetic declination on Truarc15.... please can u explain further
The easiest way is to just do it manually with out adjusting it. And It is easy to do. [But first remember it does not matter what the magnetic declination is - if you are not using the compass and map together. You only need to account for magnetic declination if converting between magnetic north bearings taken with the compass, and grid north/true north bearings measured on the map]
Two Manual methods:
Measure the bearing on the map. By using the compass as a protractor. Place the compass parallel to the line running from where you are to where you want to go. Then turn the compass housing so that the orienting lines, printed on the bottom of the compass housing, are parallel to the north-south UTM grid lines on the map. That will be your bearing (aka azimuth) referenced to grid north.
Method A:
If for example, magnetic declination is 8˚ west. Just turn the compass ring 8˚ ccw, (toward west) and your compass is adjusted correctly for 8˚west magnetic declination. So if your bearing taken off the map was 120˚ it will now be changed to 128˚. And correctly adjusted for 8˚ west magnetic declination.
Method B:
Then stand up an turn until the magnetic needle is centered in the orienting arrow printed on the bottom of the compass housing. Then kneel down on one knee. Place the compass flat on your leg, with the magnetic needle still centered inside the red orienting arrow, [ what many people like to call, putting Red Fred in the Shed.]
[ the magnetic declination scale is centered on the South side of the compass housing. (at 180˚) For west declination the scale runs ccw from S to E. For east declination the scale runs cw from South to West]
Next turn the compass base (not the degree ring) until the v-notch in the end of the south end of the magnetic needle aligns with the number of degrees of magnetic declination. For example 10˚east. Next hold the compass base from moving as you turn the compass ring to again put Red Fred in the Shed, though in this process you are really moving the Shed to be underneath where Red Fred is pointing. You find you turning the compass ring cw for east magnetic declination. (or ccw for west magnetic declination) So if your magnetic declination was 10˚east, and the bearing taken off the map was 260˚, after the adjustment your compass will be set to a bearing (aka azimuth) of 250˚.
Making the sit it once and forget it magnetic declination to the compass housing:
Pinch the center of the compass housing between thumb and index finger, (or which every way works best for you to hold only the center of the compass housing) Then with your other hand turn the compass ring. When you do this the orienting arrow will turn and no longer remain parallel to the orienting lines printed on the bottom of the compass housing. You will turn it so that the south end of the the orienting arrow (the black lines) are centered on the number if degrees of magnetic declination, ( I say centered because the orienting arrow is about 12˚ wide, there is not a single thin line that will point at the number of degrees of magnetic declination)
If the magnetic declination is west, the south end of the orienting arrow will move ccw over the west declination scale. If mag declination is east, the south end of the orienting arrow will move cw over the east declination scale.
So for example if mag declination is 10˚ west, the south end of the orienting arrow will move ccw. Ending up centered on 10˚west, but the two black lines of the orienting arrow will be have one leg pointing at about 4˚ the other side pointing at bout 16˚, to be centered on 10˚
Or maybe this link to Brunton's video will work to illustrate how it is done.
th-cam.com/video/l-eOvK4spwI/w-d-xo.html
I made up this phrase to remember how to correctly make magnetic declination adjustments.
[[ The Map WAvES to the Compass and the Compass WAvES Back.
WAvES = West Add v East Subtract.
When taking a bearing from the map to the compass.
If mag declination is West. You add the number of degrees of mag declination. {turn the ring ccw adds degrees}
If mag declination is East. You subtract the number of degrees of mag declination. {turn the ring cw subtracts degrees}
When taking a magnetic bearing taken with the compass (the compass WAvES Back) the math function is reversed.
For example if your compass bearing, say from your location to a radio tower is 48˚, and local mag declination is 7˚west, you would subtract 7˚ to arrive at 41˚ to use on the map. [WAvES Back make - West Add reverse to west subtract]
Thanks i enjoy your videos and the information you share
I purchased the my sling pack based on yours and one other persons review of it and I love it
I am going to order the truarc 15 for sure thanks again
I bought a truarc 15 today, and watched this to see if I had everything figured out, but I do have one question. What is the purpose of the red arrow that will rotate around the dial? And I'm not talking about the compass needle lol
+Phil Law Clinometer for avalanche safety
you can measure the height of object with that needle ...a little trigonometry goes into it...
You direct read the elevation of a distant object off the declination scale.
nice job, I was considering buying one and the video helped me decide.
+kirk comiskey thanks for watching Kirk
Nice compass with some good features. I'll have to have a closer look. Thanks. atb Opal
Opal Preston Shirley thanks for the comment.
great review i really like the 15 ,nice compass !
atb john
the mi woodsman handy to have a mirror.
lots of nice features !
the mirror is a monster plus for sure !
I subscribe, but you do not have any more videos on how to use th Brunton truarc 15 or any compass.
Good breakdown
How do I subscribe to your videos, I want to learn more on the compass.
+Laura Jane Aungst Red subscribe button.
great video. I implore anyone to learn how to use a compass.
great review, they look like some nice compasses...........
ben terwellen thanks for watching the video and the comment. have a great weekend.
There's an easier way to set the declination. Hold top and bottom of capsule with thumb and finger, then turn outer dial.
+Danny Jackson thanks for the tip.
Heads up - this is NOT easy to do. You are describing the method in the instructions. It is a royal PITA.
Nice compass
awesome I left a big fat thumbs up 😀👍
Brunton markets the "tool free" declination adjustment as a good thing, but my experience with them has been seriously flawed. Bruntons generally have a lot of good other features and a tasty price point, but the declination adjustment is so problematic that I cannot recommend them. (I wanted to like them, I really did.)
A better compass that has a rock solid adjustable declination and none of the extra fluff features on the Brunton is the Suunto MC-2, at about $38.
+johngo6283 thanks for the comment.
What issues do you have with the tool-free adjustability? I have never had an issue with them.
William, that's a fair question.
I will preface my following comment by saying if it works for you, terrific. But that's not the case for everyone.
Here's the short answer:
Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't, and even experts can screw it up.
Here's the long answer, along with a little story.
I have always been a fan of Suunto compasses, specifically the M3 and if you want to get a little fancier, the MC-2 model.
However, I noticed that my local REI store carries Brunton compasses along with Suunto. I know that many students in my navigation classes will be tempted to buy one, so I thought I should get one also and see if it's worthwhile.
So, I go to my local REI, and ask to talk to the person working who knows the most about compasses. A few minutes later one of the assistant managers comes over, who also happens to be the main instructor for map and compass classes at that store. Perfect I think, a manager and the navigation teacher. I’m talking to the right person.
So I ask the manager, “Can you show me how the adjustable declination works on this Brunton?" He says sure thing.
He proceeds to take the compass out of its packaging, put it down on a table, make several attempts to squeeze the dial and adjust the declination . . . and then we got here a sharp “Crack!” sound.
The manager, and navigation instructor, managed to break a brand-new compass within 60 seconds from taking it out of the package. It looks to me a little sheepishly, gives an embarrassed shrug of his shoulders, and says, "I probably wouldn't buy a Brunton, we've had a lot of returns from customers have done that exact same thing."
I've taught wilderness navigation to hundreds of students over the years, and I would never recommend a tool or technique to anyone that I don't have 100% confidence in myself. I have since tried this on another Brunton compass, and had mixed success. It seems like you need to press down the dial in the right place with the right amount of force to get the adjustment to work.
Brunton markets the “tool free” declination adjustment is an attractive feature, but let's really examine this: most people set their declination one time for the local area and never touch it again for years, and using the tiny screwdriver that comes with the Suunto, (or the tip of a knife blade if you lose your screwdriver) is idiot proof and in no way will damage your compass if you try to do it.
So, the fact that you don't need a “tool” to make adjustment really is not a major selling point.
Yes, the Bruntons do you cost a little bit less than the Suuntos, but in my mind that's their only advantage.
This is a tool that he might save your life in certain circumstances. That's reason enough to get a good one.
I just hold the rotary dial and twist the compartment holding the needle. A little force is necessary but not much. I have the Truarc 3 and the Truarc 20. I do have a Suunto M-3 G as well. I find they all work fine.
Go deep in the bush!! It feels good. LOL
check your messages bud
try just getting to the teaching intested of the long story in the front. to much extra chatter
+Sean Geoege simple, dont' watch.
My bubble is inclined, very disappointed with the quality, also the painting or scales are very bad
+peter ganz contact them, they will send a new one.
+peter ganz peter, you're not the only one disappointed with the quality of Brunton compasses. Once they figure out the quality-control, hopefully soon, they will be worthy of my recommendation.
This video has been out for some time now, so I will assume that you already know what I am going to say. Get rid of the sun glasses when you are recording. If someone can't see your eye's, you come off as not trustworthy. If you are every negotiating a deal, take off your sunglasses. If you are going to tell your wife where the hell you've been, take off your sunglasses. You seem bright, so I assume that you understand my message. Please don't reply back and give me some BS story about why you need to have your sun glasses on. Listen to me and learn.
You win the dumbest comment of the day award.
@@livingsurvival I thought you would be more teachable. You seem bright, so I'll give you a second chance. There is tons of research and data on this, don't let your ego get in the way of getting better.
the mirror is not intended to use for stuff in your eyes, but for sighting in your bearings over distances. Seems you too need to learn the more advanced methods of sighting in bearings using a compass with a mirror. yikes...
+Lauren Urbais i know exactly what it is for but when you are survival minded you make sure that every tool in your box has multiple uses. hence a mirror that can be used for sighing in, signaling and getting stuff out of your eyes. if you have ever walked in the woods you know a mirror can be super valuable. seems you are the one that needs to learn.
Hi there! For setting the declination on Brunton's I find it easiest to pinch the inner capsule (thumb on face, index on back) and with the other hand rotate the capsule ring (thumb on ring, index on ring). Hope this helps!
+taiden thanks for the tip.
isn't the mirror and the lil hole meant for exact measuring a bearing to a landmark which you aim at through the hole? and with the mirror you look down at the numbers without moving your head?
Yes, you're able to sight the landmark and position the dial under the needle. You can then read the bearing but can just move it down and look at the bearing. The mirror does have those fringe benefits as well!
Yes, marking or sighting a bearing in the field is the primary function of the mirror.
Yes, and it also works the same way for elevations of objects, using the extra red arrow in the dial on the TruArc 15, which he did not mention.
Just happened across your video randomly and its nice you're getting free items and all but figured you may wish to know that snazzy mirror with the big line down the middle, although it could of course be used as a distress signal mirror and even to look at your mug is not the intended purpose whatsoever,it is in fact what's known as a sighting mirror to be used to see the compass needle and bezel ring whether sighting or to set the bezel or dial also sometimes called the degree wheel when taking bearings while maintaning position on the target or heading thus increasing accuracy. The markings on the baseplate coincide with the scale of topographic maps typically in use by those who would be orienteering (1/24k and 1/62.5k in this case) for measuring purposes with metric on bottom....I'd politely suggest you learn the parts and function of any item you intend to demonstrate and how to properly use a compass in specific before filming your subsequent "advanced" videos ...good luck.Also someone such as myself at least would want a review to not only have features of a product (all of them in fact) but durability , accuracy, funtionality ease of use value etc. Obviously you're not in a position to offer such information at this time but as your skill progresses may be something to consider.IDK if your target audience would have the same criteria but just offering a suggestion as was suprised you host a survival channel tbh no offense but suppose there are many levels of competency and wish you all the best in furthering your abilities just would hate to see anyone especially a beginner intent on using what could amount to life saving equipment be misinformed.Few people today seem to be willing to spend the time and energy to actually learn things vs. find a quick fix solution. I would like to offer my personal opinion on the toolless declination "feature" that unless extremely firm and solid is a bad bad idea....there is a reason other brands use a tool which simply goes on the lanyard and that's so its not inadvertantly disrupted once in the backcountry and operating in that declination specific area if potential rough handling could cause an adjustment the results could be catastrophic depending upon distances involved but that's just me .I'm sure you're well aware the most important piece of gear is contained in the brain housing group and amounts to knowledge and its practical application thereof...
TheRatman969 I know what the line is for and the mirror, however, when shit hits the fan I will use it as a signal mirror before ever worrying about anything but simple direction. Also, when I am in the woods nearly every single day learning and practicing my skills I have used the mirror many more times to get something out of my eye rather than advanced compass use. I suggest to you that instead of critiquing another channel, you start your own and show everyone your vast knowledge and skills. Luck? That gave me a good laugh.
No critique just contstructive critisim based upon my backround and thus expectations of a review from someone labeling themselves in some way shape or form as a survival(ist) or even duty expert?? No need be butthurt so to speak and was sincere in wishing you the best of luck in your endeavors actually.Whether you know what the mirrors primary function or not becomes irrelevant in context of not mentioning in a review of the compass itself at least from my perspective so not a huge leap to offer such a suggestion wouldn't you agree? (can remain rhetorical of course)Why being wished luck would make you laugh is just futher affirmation of what was alluded to earlier in ref. to skillset and competency or even potential lack thereof and that applies to anyone who overestimates thier abilities including myself. Being confident in your abilities one actually posses' is good but also humble enough to know whats deficient or needing some work is the first part to survival in most any enviornment in many instances as most all "accidents" to which are rarely accidents at all typically revolve around big heads being over ones abilities and lack of knowledge . The SHTF comment and subsequent use of signal mirror aspect is reinforcement of this as of course no one can control alll aspects of being in the outdoor enviornment completely but a well prepared and skilled one would rarely encounter such circumstances as their contigency planning and preparation redundancy etc.would preclude it and even then no need cause alarm just work through the problem calmly as anythng else is recipe for disaster. I'd again politely suggest honing skills so as to hopefully never need to do so and have a SAR team have to put themselves at risk as well in first place but all emergency skills even signalling are worthwhile of course no dispute there. Won't comment further so as to cause you issue or hijack your site as not my intent but in ref to this compass which is what it really about would offer the suunto mc2 or silva ranger are most likely a better choice in my view after seing the product and hopefully still finland made vs china which is no reflection upon yourself .In response to the rest in all honesty I am not really interested in starting a channel and or filming and not in any way knocking that aspect as must be time consuming with filming , editing etc. have no clue.My plate is fairly full with other endeavors other than watching a few here and there but no question my navigation skills are far more than adequate and practical knoledge based enough to warrant comment in manner afforementioned. however that wasn't the point of the offering of ideas and viewpoint. Ego also should never play a role as even the most erudite should never cease to learn .Was simply in market for some gear to include a baseplate style compass for my waterproof map bag and gave a watch as hadn't kept up with brunton's line.....If you must know before being accused of a youtube interweb keyboard commando though I am former SGT U.S.M.C. 0351/0321 with one duty station in specific being SNCOA Camp Hansen as a weapons and tactics instructor to which the C.T.A. land navigation course, Okinawa Japan was installed personally (read by me) utilizing then new technology of gyroscopically stablilized laser guided G.P.S system w remote postition reflector accurate in MGRS to a 10digit grid.(military datum version vice lat/lon and equates to less than 1 meter error) to which then the course had to be verified i.e. run literally with simple map and compass agian by me to ensure students could handle (primarily lensatic in this case) skills which were paramount with more advanced skills such as call for fire, resection ,obstacle avoidance using offset , attack points for time savings route planning ,topo maps etc. which have civillian applications in those skills as well,.and other Infantry platoon leadership skills that do not pertain in civillian sector so no need mention being taught.I am also well versed and trained in other areas and if have any questions general or specific feel free to ask as would offer knowledge on a consultation basis free.99 if req'd but that's outside the scope of this conversation nor was it to cause feelings of inadequacy on your part. Again kudos to you in your daily fieldcraft skills practice..and anyone tuning in for that matter ...as practice never makes perfection but continual improvement afterall and many of these things are pershable skills as well.Jsut have to beware of "bad" practice as that causes training scars and can be hard to overcome is my point. My position holds on original statement of course and its relevance to safety,competancy and skill being inextricably intertwined."good luck" legit indeed.
I am no expert, and don't' claim to be. Just a guy who actually uses the products I show and pick them accordingly. Although I do get many products free of charge, and even get paid to do videos in some cases, I maintain control over the content on my channel. Meaning I don't review any item offered and believe me the offers are all day long. My response to the luck comment gave me a laugh because before this endeavor I owned a business that failed due to the economy and our country's ignorant consumers who buy based on price and not quality. It has been the hardest four years of my life and humbled me to the point of simply doing what I love and that will have to be good enough. Hence the name "Living Survival" which came to me while taking cans back to eat. Hard work is where I am now, no luck about it. I appreciate the dialog and comment. It would be nice if you did make videos. I would offer you a guest video explaining advanced compass navigation.
Check rog its all good in the youtube hood lol. .. and we have similar backrounds in regards to knowing hard times , even as it applies to business as my fields are primarily expendable income based and definitely felt the hit with the economic times, public perception as it pertains to quality vs. disposal products and services etc. Always push forward and you will persevere and if you're doing what you love never feels like just a job even when you work harder at it that's for sure. Respect your approach to this and hopefully can make some time to contribute something if you feel it may be useful.If you prefer correspond in greater detail and probably outside this forum here's my page and can get further contact info. etc. from there.can just pm facebook.com/RatzTatzInk.
Have a backlog of clients currently and a impending move of both house and business amongst the other usual suspects .
TheRatman969 Once I lost my business, my house, vehicles and everything I own in addition to a mountain of debt I had no choice but to take a 9-5 job in the corporate world. I did this on the side for 3 years and finally decided to go for it. I do what I love and fully believe in the saying "you get out of it what you put into it, so that is what I do. Thanks again, I'll check out your page.
A compass is quite the important piece of gear! I love making my own path in the woods! But what if you find yourself without a compass? Do you known any good navigation techniques without one?
Jason McDaniel Sun, moss on trees.
Jason McDaniel Using the sun and an analog watch or just picture the watch in your mind and you can tell which way is North. Videos on youtube about it.
Danny Jackson I actually did a video on that already.
These are geological brunton compass..not a mirror to see your beauty
Isn't the mirror for,sighting target points through sight hole and still read the compass heading?
👍👍👍
👍
VERY important piece of survival gear.
Even if someone is not lost A compass will ensure that the shortest distance between 2 points is a straight line.
I like that #15 This is an item that imo should be carried in Two's.
Thanks L.S !
PREPFORIT My watch has one but not all that accurate. Always have a backup.
go to got to get me a compass and need the tutorials thank you
Yooper Digger57 yep, important.
1) If you buy a compass, make 100% sure you have 1:25 and 1:50 scales both vertical and horizontal direction. Or what ever scales in your area are.
2) learn no navigate with a map
Both of these compasses did not have either. Not shitting on the company, the Arc10 model is what I’m talking about
Great vid been looking for a compass this one sounds like a winner its decently affordable. Like your vids good details. Looking forward to the how to vids
+Kevin Jones thanks for watching.
Compass are old way n trouble some. now I used handheld map GPS or my hand phone it is so easy.
Yup... Until your gear runs out of juice in the middle of nowhere.
Your handheld GPS and phone can't do everything the TruArc 15 does.
Mein Durchfall fließt wie ein Fluss!
Is the TruArc 15 a global compass, works well both north & south of the equator?
yes in southern hemisphere needle is tilted at an angle, however it still points precisely
Great job. BTW, the lanyard appears to be long enough to hang around your neck. Unfortunately, they attached the lanyard to the wrong end for doing that.
+LFOD7491 how do you mean?
+Living Survival I mean that if you hang the device around your neck with the lanyard, it hangs from the top edge of the device instead of the bottom edge. That means that when you raise it to viewing position, the lanyard must be moved out of the viewing path. If the lanyard were attached to the opposite end, that would never be a problem. Just consider how some high-end sports stopwatches are hung from their lanyard. I know it seems like a small thing, but in a high-stress situation, every little detail can get amplified into a problem.