handbearing compass or binoculars with compass and rangefinder?

[sarabande]

JD


this stuff

https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=g...annel=nts&gfe_rd=cr&ei=xJ5SVIjoDezH8gf_t4CYCQ

is excellent. We used it for DIY arrows in the bunkers, and you can cut little bits to any shape.

 

[prv]

I think the sights originally had glow-in-the-dark stuff on them, but if they did mine has long since lost The Power.

Presumably you could repaint them, though.

Pete

 

[Ravi]

our boat lacks a handbearing compass - mind you we never used them in the old boat

do you think we can get away with a decent 7x50 binoculars with built in compass and rangefinder rather than buying both?

This summer, I found myself mostly using the compass/binns. As I rely on electronic navigation, my only use is for taking bearings on harbour entrances, transits, etc. so the magnification is very handy.
The only times we used the handbearing compasses were when we wanted something light and portable for a quick check, (e.g. to confirm that every ferry steers a collision course with us!)
So, If I had to choose between the two, I would go for the binoculars. Especially, if they were less unweildy than mine, which I picked up on eBay years ago.

 

[GrahamD]

I have Canon stabilised 10x30 and a Plastimo iris 50 hand bearing compass. If there was a binocular combining both I probably would have gone for it. However having used non stabilised compass binoculars I think I prefer my setup as the Canon are so good.

I also think that the way I use a hand bearing compass has changed since the advent of chartplotters. I tend to use the chartplotter to establish the approximate bearing of a feature I am seeking and then confirm this with compass and binoculars if needed.

I like the Iris 50. I find it easy to us. I've had it a long time and it has taken a lot of abuse

 

[JumbleDuck]

Presumably you could repaint them, though.

That's an idea, and I am indebted to Sarabande for this idea

https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=g...annel=nts&gfe_rd=cr&ei=xJ5SVIjoDezH8gf_t4CYCQ

which I shall investigate, though in view of the diminutive areas involved I suspect that paint would be easier. I have also thought about glueing on tiny betalights, but as they come in glass capsule, arranging adequate protection - without obstructing the sights - might be difficult.