Cammenga 417 Official U.S. Military Tritium Lensatic Compass (Model 3H)

Fantastic compass, when in the field you need kit that feels right for you personally. I have tried cheaper lensatic compasses that were every bit as accurate as the 3H, but they did not feel right. This compass does what it says on the tin. The only negative I've heard of is that some Compasses are not watertight, thankfully mine is, so definitely check for this if you do buy one. Yes, it is expensive, but quality does cost, plus, I am pretty certain this compass will last my lifetime.

Item received was not a branded Cammenga lensatic compass. It didn't have any markings or printed batch number on the compass hood. Was it any good as a compass? Who knows, I'm certainly not going to risk getting lost on a walk because of an inferior build (especially when I've paid for the real thing). This one is only slightly better than my Eurohike lensatic which was 1/6 of the price. For what I'm paying I want to know it's a reliable compass. Back it goes...

Came from Delhi. The bezel was extremely hard to rotate . It is supposed to turn one click for every 3 degrees of rotation. I could hardly move it,! The north needle was very unstable - the slightest movement made it oscillate backwards and forwards for ages. Not fit for purpose. It was completely useless. I sent it back the same day. I suspect it is a cheap knock off.

This compass is one of the best navigation tool i've ever bought... Keep in mind that GPS signals from satellites aren't available anywhere/everywhere and are always subject to being intercepted or jammed when a war begins or solar blasts erupts. When GPS batteries are going down or if you're in an area where satellites are not available, you'll be glad to have this alternative tool. U.S. Military made this compass with quality in mind when they've pass the contract to Cammenga. They didn't went with the lowest bidder and so this is one of the most expensive compass you can buy but there's a good reason for it. Frame is made from good quality aluminium and the housing is waterproof. CAMMENGA lensatic compasses slow the needle via induction dampening and avoid the problems associated with liquid fill. So it's ready for operations in our Canada's cold temperature! The lighting from the tritium is made to glow for around 10 to 15 years without being exposed to light. This is perfect for night navigation. If you're an amateur or professional hiker, survivor, police or military and need a good compass you'll keep for all your life and pass to your grandchildren, this is the best compass to buy.

it is waste of money buying this the numbers and markings are not readable

Great for hiking and camping. Very sturdy and well made. Just like the compass that I carried in the Marine Corps.

I had some poor quality compasses before and this time for me quality had to be very important. First of all this particular item comes in a nice army pouch . Second The needle locks , yes the price is not cheap but you pay for what you get, this unit is very solid and also very accurate , I am very pleased with my purchase could not ask for a better compass .

Appears to be the real deal, personally prefer base plate with adjustable declination screw so you adjust and be done. But land navigation course on east coast I have to use this so have to brush up on this compass. Plus have to recondition myself from easternly to westernly. Below is what A.I. says to look for when looking for authentic Cammenga. To distinguish a real Cammenga compass from a fake one, check for the following details: proper markings and engravings, a clear and consistent tritium glow, a well-built construction, the correct company logo, and purchase from a reputable seller; if you suspect a fake, closely examine the case back for accurate serial numbers and manufacturing information, as counterfeit versions often have inconsistencies or missing details. Key points to look for: Markings and Engravings: "Cammenga" logo should be clearly visible and properly aligned. Serial number on the back of the compass should be neatly stamped and legible. All markings on the compass face, including degree markings and north arrow, should be crisp and consistent. Tritium Glow: A genuine Cammenga compass will have a consistent, even glow from the tritium vials, visible in low light conditions. Uneven or very faint glow could indicate a fake. Construction Quality: A real Cammenga compass should feel sturdy and well-built with no loose parts or obvious imperfections. Check for a solid, secure closure mechanism on the compass case. Purchase Source: Always buy from a trusted retailer specializing in outdoor gear or directly from the Cammenga website to minimize the risk of buying a fake. What to be wary of in a fake Cammenga: Poorly engraved markings: Blurred or misaligned text, incorrect logos. Inconsistent tritium glow: Uneven or very weak glow, or no glow at all. Cheap materials: Plastic feeling case, loose components. Missing information: Missing serial numbers, manufacturing details on the case back.