Brunton Lensatic Military Compass Review

Analysis and Test Results

The lensatic sighting mechanism allows for accurate targeting and bearing measurements, ensuring reliable navigation even in demanding environments.  However, if you are unfamiliar with this type of compass, you will need to practice.  We are used to baseplate compasses, and it took us a while to get the hang of using a lensatic compass.  The Brunton Lensatic Military Compass is built to withstand harsh conditions, but this does make it heavier and more bulky than a baseplate compass.  While suitable for accurate bearings and directional measurements, this compass lacks additional features like scales and clinometers found in other compasses. 

Performance Comparison

Type

The Brunton Lensatic Military Style Sighting Compass belongs to the category of lensatic compasses, also known as military-style sighting compasses.  Designed for rugged outdoor use, this type of compass is commonly used by military personnel, hikers, and outdoor professionals due to its accuracy and durability.  The primary difference between a lensatic compass and a baseplate mirror compass lies in their sighting mechanisms and design.  A lensatic compass features a hinged sighting lens that allows users to sight and lock onto a target accurately.  It incorporates a rear sight, front sight, and a magnifying lens for precise bearing measurements.  The Brunton Lensatic Military Style Sighting Compass has a sighting line integrated into the cover and several notches to make sure you are lined up correctly.  The metal cover folds closed to protect the compass. 

Increments and Scales

The Brunton Lensatic Military Style Sighting Compass is marked with increments in 2-degree intervals, and it is accurate to within 5 degrees.  When folded out flat, you have a long straight edge that is marked in millimeters.  No other scales or measuring equipment are on the compass, so you may need to take a protractor if navigating with a map.

Durability

In terms of durability, the Brunton Lensatic Military Style Sighting Compass is built to withstand harsh conditions encountered during outdoor adventures.  Brunton are a well-established American company primarily known for making high-quality pocket transits.  The success with their pocket transits naturally led to them beginning to make compasses in 1976, using the same high-quality materials as the transits.  The case and the hinge are made from metal, but most of the rest of the compass is plastic.  The case folds over to protect the face of the compass, but it doesn’t lock firmly into place, so it is possible for it to fall open.

Ease of Use

The compass is designed for ease of use, especially for those familiar with the lensatic sighting mechanism.  Beginners may experience a slight learning curve when mastering the lensatic sighting method, but with practice, the compass becomes a user-friendly tool for accurate navigation.  A hinged metal loop folds down underneath, which is designed for your thumb to be placed in to help keep the compass steady when sighting.  The magnifying lens on the front makes it easier to read the figures on the compass dial and can also be used to help with the smaller details on a map.  Its lightweight and compact design adds to its practicality, as it easily fits into pockets or attaches to gear with a lanyard, ensuring convenience during outdoor excursions.

Region and Needle

The Brunton Lensatic Military Style Sighting Compass has a Northern Hemisphere needle, so it would not be accurate in all parts of the globe.  The needle is in a liquid-dampened capsule, but it takes a while to settle, and it does have to be held very level to be accurate.

Luminosity

The compass has luminous markings, making it visible in low-light or nighttime conditions.  However, the luminosity fades quite quickly.

Size

The Brunton Lensatic Military Style Sighting Compass is designed to be compact and lightweight for a military sighting compass.  When it is open, it is 6.5 inches (16.5 cm) long, 2.2 (5.5 cm) inches wide, and 1.2 inches (3 cm) deep.  When closed, the Brunton Lensatic Military Style Sighting Compass measures half as long at 3 inches (7.6 cm) long.

Weight

The Brunton Lensatic Military Style Sighting Compass weighs 3.4 oz (94 g), more than half the weight of the Cammenga Tritium Compass 3H.

Price

The Brunton Lensatic Military Style Sighting Compass is more expensive than basic compass models.  Still, it is a very reasonable price for a military-style lensatic compass and a fraction of the cost of the Cammenga Tritium Compass 3H. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Brunton Lensatic Military Style Sighting Compass is a good alternative if you want a cheaper, lighter version of the Cammenga Tritium Compass 3H.  It is solidly built with extra protection offered by the metal case.  The increments are clearly marked, and the magnifying glass ensures you can easily read the compass dial.  Whilst the lensatic sighting method may require some practice for beginners, the compass proves to be user-friendly once you are familiar with it.  Overall, if you a looking for a military-style lensatic compass at a reasonable price, the Brunton Lensatic Military Style Sighting Compass could be precisely what you are looking for.