hand bearing compass

I still use paper charts and a hand bearing compass, much to the amusement of collegues.

These measurements could be made visually using a hand bearing compass, or in poor visibility electronically using radar or radio direction finding.

Modern examples of marine hand bearing compasses include the Suunto KB-14 and KB-77, and the Plastimo Iris 50.

Equipped with a viewing prism, the hand bearing compass allows instant reading of forward bearings from the user to an object or vessel, and some provide the reciprocal bearing as well.

Instead of a magnetized needle or disc, most hand bearing compasses feature liquid damping with a floating card design (a magnetized, degreed float or dial atop a jeweled pivot bearing).

A hand compass (aka hand bearing compass or sighting compass) is a term for any compact magnetic compass capable of one-hand use and fitted with a sighting device to record a precise bearing or azimuth to a given target or to determine a location.

Suunto makes a wide variety of magnetic compasses, including the A and M series for general navigation, the Arrow series of compasses for orienteering and adventure racing competition, and the KB and MC line for those requiring a professional-quality hand bearing compass.