Suunto M-3/360/D/L/CM NH

Professional Compasses for Demanding Navigators

The two models, which make up the M-Series (M-2, M-3), represent durable, reliable, high quality navigational aids, which perform flawlessly in even the most demanding of conditions. Both models feature a large liquid filled capsule and adjustable declination correction scale. Another convenient feature of the models in this series is the serrated bezel ring, which is easy to turn even in cold conditions while wearing gloves. Due to their easy-to-read luminous markings and magnifying lenses, the compasses of the M-Series are also ideally suited to navigating in conditions of poor visibility.

Two Geographical Balancing Zones

The vertical intensity and direction of the earth's magnetic field, the inclination, influences the horizontal plane of a compass needle according to the latitude where it is used. Due to inclination, compasses must be balanced for different geographical zones in order to keep the needle in a horizontal position.

Previously, the globe was divided into five different balance zones in which specific compasses functioned. However, as people travel more and more, the need for a compass with a greater geographical range has increased. Thanks to Suunto's 'Two Zone System' there are only two balance zones to consider in compass use - the northern hemisphere and the southern hemisphere. In practice, this means that a Suunto compass designed for the northern hemisphere will still work for a fair distance into the southern hemisphere, and vice-versa.

Suunto also makes globally balanced compasses, which can be used accurately all over the world.