SUNNTO MB-6 Compass: A rugged sighting compass in a protective matchbox case

Confession: After doing a painstaking amount of research, I was minutes away from ordering the Suunto MC-2 compass. But then I got a ruler and drew-out the size of the thing. I realized that even if it's the best compass in the world, it won't do me any good when I leave it at home because it's too big to easily carry in my pocket. Or maybe I bring it, but I still don't use it because it's down in my pack instead of in my pocket. So I looked for a more practical choice (for me), and this MB-6 is what I liked. I think I made a good choice: I got a well-made, thoughtfully designed compass that works well, easily fits in my pocket, and can be carried unobtrusively.MB-6 versus the MC-2: if you really need a compass that must do e-v-e-r-y-t-h-i-n-g, then the MC-2 may be it. But the thing is, you don't. This little compass is superior in terms of portability, and it's better for taking bearings. The MC-2 has a larger compass capsule & bezel, so theoretically, it will more precise. But in real world use, I think the MB-6 will be precise enough... you won't be using it to survey property, afterall. You may be thinking, "But what about needing scales and straight edges for map work"? All the MB-6 offers is a very basic centimeter scale along one side. But the thing is, your compass doesn't really need more than that. You can do better/easier map work if you go to the Map Tools website, and for a few bucks you can get any kind of grid, ruler, protractor in any scale you need for use with your maps (some of their products are also sold here). All of which will work well in combination with your MB-6, to do quality map work... and you'll have a better experience than if you tried to do it all with just an MC-2.A few things about MB-6 construction: I find the compass solidly constructed and well made. No air bubble in the capsule. The drawer opens firmly and snaps firmly in place; there's no wobble in it when open. The compass bezel turns with the right amount of firmness: it will stay in place, yet turn smoothly as you rotate the bezel. The drop-down mirror hangs at a good angle and makes it easy to align compass with needle. I haven't used the declination, yet. I know there are some reviews that say differently about the MB-6's construction quality. I've examined two MB-6's, and they both matched my description, above. I know it's frustrating to see such discrepancies when trying to make a purchase, especially when doing so online. FWIW, I think your chances are good that you'll like this little compass.

I need to preface this by saying I'm no expert in land navigation. I know enough to get by. However I did do a ton of research in selecting a compass and was surprised to find how many available models these days have annoying defects or other drawbacks. This model however seemed to stand out as not only lacking those annoyances, but it has several features that are, far as I can tell, fairly unique.-The sliding matchbox design is a plus for me as it means it closes up into a tidy rectangle with rounded corners, so it fits in a pocket without pointy bits. I'm not necessarily a fan of the fact that the only way to open it is to pull the lanyard, because I'm afraid it may eventually snap with time. However it shows no signs of doing so.-The case has a groove in the top with two glow-in-the-dark pieces you can aim much like the iron signs of a firearm when sighting.-The mirror is polished steel (non-magnetic, I checked) which is nice for durability and is also very clear. But what makes it very unique is that it drops down below the compass rather than above, which allows you to use the sights on the top without having to look through a hole, either when sighting a bearing or using the inclinometer to measure a height angle. The mirror can be a little fiddly as it slides freely when the compass is open. You can retract the mirror into the body when the compass is open by just tilting it.A final note is that this is the global version of this compass, and it appears that at least according to the map on the package (see photo), it is a *true* global compass. I saw another review from 5-6 months ago with a photo showing a different map on the package which showed it would not work in the farther parts of the southern hemisphere. I guess they made some small improvement to design?

Incredible design. Light weight, compact and versatile. I would not recommend this for someone starting out. If you don’t know the definition of the terms: grid magnetic angle, dip error, and avoiding an obstruction using an equilateral triangle, then don’t buy this.I absolutely love it.

The overall experience working with the seller and the product quality is excellent. I would purchase this product again, and highly recommend the seller.

Lasted 3 months and sent in for warranty. Developed air bubbles with light use. But, warranty was not an issue. I also sent in a standard Suunto that had air bubbles. They were very helpful, and no questions asked. Customer service top notch. Not like the run around with warranty issues I have had with other companies. I do carry a GPS and back up compass. I like the matchbox style with sighting mirror. Fits in shirt pocket.

Llegó muy bien, volvería a comprar con este vendedor sin duda

This product is made from cheap plastic and not as durable aluminum as it was in years past.

The lanyard is already installed (unlike for a Suunto MC-2G), and you’re ready to go out-of-the box.The declination adjustment is easy, and the tool for it is attached to the lanyard.The metal mirror that slides and flips down is a bit unusual, but workable.The sights are a bit chunky, but well visible in low-light conditions, and good-enough for picking a landmark on your chosen heading.Overall, a good tool for sighting headings, even though it’s not quite as comfortable for map work as an MC-2G.