Opinion's desired: Compass Mounting

[TexasMike]

I've grown tired of having my compass in my console. Due to hose length, it is not as convenient as I'd like to sight a bearing and swim it. So I am considering taking the opportunity to purchase a better compass and have a better mounting system.

I'd like to hear from you guys on:

1. Brand and Model of compass you folks prefer. Please discuss why you like that one.
   
2. Mounting on your wrist? Or the small 6-inch slate? I was leaning toward the wrist, but LDS wants me to make sure I investigate the small slate as well. What do you see as pros/cons about each? (Also, at this juncture, I am not interested in a retractor.)

Thanks for the input!!!

 

[Rick Murchison]

I use both a console mounted compass and a home-made slate mounted one - it really depends on what kind of diving I'm doing. For the occasional "out & in" typical of recreational reef diving, I find the console mount adequate; for any kind of real nav problem, surveying or search pattern, etc, I use the slate mount. Of course none of 'em are worth a flip around a steel wreck. (I've tried the wrist mount and I like it even less than the console mount.)
Rick

 

[The Hamburger]

The way I do it is to just use the compass in the console to take my first bearing on the surface before I go down , the for quick references and keeping to a bearing I use a mini compass mounted on the wrist strap of my computer.

If you swim with your arms out front then you don't even have to move to see it just glance at your wrist. It also means that the compass is level when you are.

The one I bought I'm not sure of the make but only cost me $1.50.

I know Scubapro also make one, probably 3 x price.

The biggest problem with this solution is its no good for old guys as the compass is so small (i wonder who will rise to that bait ;-)

Cheers

 

[martinjc]

I tried it on my wrisit - but I'm already wearing a Mosquito on one wrist and my back-up watch on the other. I only have a very small slate that is mouted on my forearm. So - I went with the retractable clip - yes, I know there can be problems with that, but I like that set-up so far...

 

[ckharlan66]

martinjc,

I have my compass on a retractor as well. I haven't dove with it but unless you are referring to intanglement hazards I am not sure what problems you are referring to.

Is there something I should be make aware of?

Chad

 

[Dee]

I like mine on my console with one change. I turned it so that I hold the console sideways and the compass is right side up. This is very secure for me...I can cradle the console in my left hand with the compass in my right...sort of cupped together. With my elbows locked into my body, this provides a stable 3-point position that works well for me. With the compass on my wrist, arm in front ala Superman, I prefer not to use the side window in a compass which this requires you to do. The slate methos would work if the slate was large enough to stabalize against your body.

I use and prefer Oceanic compasses. The number are larger and easier to see, the card has a general 'tilt tollerance', (if you like the side window, the Oceanic's is a bit larger than some), and the pointers in the bezel are simple.

 

[daylight]

I also use the Oceanic Compass. The benefits are the same as Dee described.

I have used my compass as a console mount and a wrist mount. FWIW, I prefer the wrist mount. It's cleaner and ready to use when you need it.










dsao

 

[Scottri]

I've tried mounting my compass on my wrist and on my console with a retractor. I prefer on my console. I got tired of taking the compass on and off after dives. The retractor works great for me. Just make sure, however you decide to mount yours that you can read it well and hold it level.


Scott

 

[Uncle Pug]

Originally posted by Scottri
I got tired of taking the compass on and off after dives.

I'm lazy too but I solve the problem a different way....

I leave it on the suit....

Course I have dryglove cuff rings that keep it from just falling off onto the floor....

 

[sumguy]

How about mounting the compass on its own retractor, not in the console? Can be pulled out and held directly in front of you, for nav. I like the Suunto SK-7. (Not what I have, but my buddy does) It's easy to read, and the bezel (that's probably not what it's called, but I'm sure you know the part I mean) is very grippable, and easy to turn.