I bought this to see if it would be adequate for someone (nephews, etc.) to learn how to properly use a military compass. I checked it against my Cammenga lensatic unit and found that the one I received is accurate. Unlike the Cammenga, this light weight Brunton model would not stand up to rough treatment for long, but with proper care it will serve its owner well. It is made of metal and certainly adequate for light day hikes of a few miles or so and would be good way to learn how to use a military compass without spending a small fortune (only about $15). Even so, if you're going deep into the woods for several days, don't hesitate to spend the extra money for the Cammenga. Cammenga supplies the U.S. Military and the durability of their compasses is worth the additional cost. 4 stars

construction is ok, illumination is not that useful. damping may be too much (not sure) 4 stars

I bought two and only one worked ok.
I will make this short.
Spend the money and buy a good one that works well.
Amazon would not take it back because of what it is filled with.
2 stars

Given the price, I wasn't sure about what quality I'd receive. I've been very pleased with the quality of the compass. It was delivered on time, and my son is having a great time with it. 5 stars

No, it's not a Cammenga. For <$11 no one should expect the same quality. If you hold it level, you will get an accurate enough reading to head you in the direction you want--but you'd better hold it level....and wait a minute for it to settle.

I've got an old better quality Brunton that I would trust with my life--this one I would not. In no way would I use this with a topo map in big woods. Out of the box, it points about 10 degrees E of mag N compared to the older Brunton and a high priced GPS at speed(which agree).

I use it in the deer woods to get a fairly accurate reading on wind direction and stand placement. It fits in the smallest pocket on my belt pack which is why I bought it. If it breaks, I'll get a new one.

The case is non-ferrous--seems sturdy enough. Better have a working flashlight or a Bic to see the alleged luminous cardinal points>>charge them with a flashlight, and they're dark in about 5 minutes.

Bottom line: if you need a compass that will point you approximately where you want to get...for the money it gets the job done. If you want accuracy, buy better quality. 3 stars