What are the differences between basic, directional, hand-bearing and mirror-sighting compasses?
A basic compass consists of a magnetic needle and a base plate with a compass rose. This type of compass is appropriate to use if the end user simply needs a general direction. A directional sighting compass usually will include the base plate, a moveable azimuth or bezel ring, the directional or north arrow, the orienteering arrow and some map scales. A hand-bearing compass is different than either of the two previous compasses in that it has an eyepiece. It still has a base and vial or liquid capsule, but this compass allows the user to site on an object while simultaneously taking a compass reading. This allows for much greater degree of accuracy and precision. Finally, the mirrored sighting compass is similar to the directional sighting compass, but also includes a cover with a mirror, a sight and usually a declination adjustment. A mirrored compass allows the end user to see the face of the compass while taking a bearing in the field.
