All students MUST have a compass with adjustable declination . Be very sure to understand these requirements, not merely to read the REI summary sheet. If you already have a compass without adjustable declination, you may not use it in this course. Recent experience indicates that such compasses detract from the learning experience. A transparent rectangular base plate with a direction of travel arrow or a sighting mirror.
Transparency allows map features to be seen underneath the compass.
The rectangular shape provides straight edges and square angles for plotting and triangulating on the map. In general, bezels should be large to allow use while wearing gloves - the larger size also improves accuracy. Black bezels with sloping sides are preferred. Marks on the bottom of the interior of the circular compass housing, marked with parallel 'meridian lines', which rotate with the bezel when it is turned. The meridian lines run parallel to the north-south axis of the bezel, however turned.