Helikon-Tex Ranger Compass Mk2 — Plastic

The Helikon-Tex Ranger Compass Mk2 is a lensatic (prismatic) compass in ABS plastic, designed for those who need a reliable, lightweight navigation tool when digital systems are unavailable or not an option. Weighing just 90 grams, it fits in any pocket or pack without adding noticeable bulk.

The ABS body absorbs impacts better than metal under hard field use, but comes with a trade-off worth knowing: it handles prolonged extreme temperatures less well than metal versions, where the plastic can become brittle. For four-season use in alpine or arctic conditions, this deserves careful consideration; for hiking, hunting and operations in temperate climates, the reduced weight is a genuine practical advantage over metal prismatic compasses.

Two map scales are moulded into the body — 1:25 000 and 1:50 000 — covering the formats most commonly used in European military and civilian mapping, removing the need for a separate plotting tool. Phosphorescent markings allow the dial to be read in low light without a torch, which matters at night when preserving dark-adapted vision is important.

Key points

• Lensatic (prismatic) compass: the bearing is read through the lens while keeping the sight aligned on the reference point, reducing parallax error compared to traditional baseplate compasses.
• Weight 90 g: integrates without noticeable impact into any lightweight carry configuration.
• Two scales — 1:25 000 and 1:50 000 — moulded into the body: compatible with standard topographic maps, ready to use with no additional accessories.
• Phosphorescent markings: dial readable in low-light conditions without artificial light, useful for preserving night vision.
• Impact-resistant ABS: protects the compass capsule during pack carry and accidental drops in field conditions.

In the box

• Helikon-Tex Ranger Compass Mk2 in ABS plastic