Handheld Compass is Simple Enough for Kids to Use
OutdoorHub 08.15.12
Sometimes the simplest tools work best. The Hand Bearing Compass from Davis Instruments is a reliable device for basic readings on water and land. Even young children in the non-profit O’Neill Sea Odyssey program quickly learn to use the compass as part of their studies.
Readings are easily obtained by aligning the compass’ front and rear sights on an object. The stable, liquid-damped compass card is graduated in 5° segments, with bold markings every 15°. A large, contoured, lightweight handle and lanyard simplify use. The illuminated model’s LED floods the compass capsule and sight vane with soft light.
Davis Instruments’ Hand Bearing Compass is particularly helpful on small boats for sighting objects, navigation, plotting distance offshore, predicting a potential collision course and checking drift while at anchor. Yachtsmen, racers and fishermen can use it for position-finding and steering. It’s also great for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
Davis’ donation of Hand Bearing Compasses to the Santa Cruz, California-based O’Neill Sea Odyssey helps educate children about the mathematics of navigation. The program also teaches children about marine science and ecology onboard a 65′ catamaran and in a classroom.
The Hand Bearing Compass from Davis retails for $45.99, and the illuminated model costs $55.99. Both are for Northern Hemisphere use.
