On Jan 3, 5:49*pm, Bloody Horvath wrote:
On Thu, 3 Jan 2008 11:13:08 -0800 (PST), Ed
wrote this crap:

I'm in need of a hand bearing compass. Practical Sailor gave the Nexus
Series 80 its highest rating a few years ago but I can't find one in
the States.

On paper, the Iris 50 by Plastimo and the Weems and Plath Model 2004
compasses look good.

I will use it for racing and cruising.

What I'm looking for, though, is actual firsthand experience of hand
bearing compasses.

Have you used one of these, or another that bears consideration?
Please share your experiences.

I still have my official Boy Scout compass, made by Silva. *Still good
after 40 years. *A nice touch is the small hole, to put a lanyard, so
you can wear it around your neck. *I recommend the military Lensatic
compass. *Good enough for the military, good enough for me. *This also
can be worn around your neck.

However, my greatest recommendation is for a pair of binoculars with a
built-in compass. *I have one, and I love it.

I assume that this is a back-up for the GPS.

* * * * * *

I'm Horvath and I approve of this post.

No, not a backup for the GPS. I'll use it as a tool for taking
bearings on passing boats-- to see how we are moving relative to one
another. Also, to take bearings of starting lines in races for the
favored end start, etc.