The Rothco Deluxe Marching Compass is a zinc alloy navigation compass built for hikers, survivalists, and outdoor explorers who need reliable directional readings in varied conditions. It includes a fluorescent green north arrow, 360-degree circular scale, inclination scale, side ruler, magnifier, and built-in level in a single compact unit. Available in Black and Olive Drab.
Built to Handle Outdoor Conditions
The Rothco Deluxe Marching Compass is housed in a zinc alloy case, a dense metal construction that resists the knocks and exposure common to field use. A metal case also holds calibration better than plastic alternatives over repeated use, which matters when you are relying on a reading to confirm your bearing.
Readable When Light Is Low
The north arrow on the Rothco Deluxe Marching Compass is fluorescent green, which improves visibility in dim or low-light conditions without requiring a battery or separate light source. The 360-degree circular scale is paired with an inclination scale, giving you both compass bearing and slope angle from the same instrument, which is useful when reading topographic maps in the field.
Map Work Built In
A side ruler on the Rothco Deluxe Marching Compass is designed to work directly against a map's printed scale, so you can measure route distances without a separate tool. The integrated magnifier supports detailed reading of fine map print. The built-in level helps confirm the compass is sitting flat before you take a reading, a small detail that meaningfully improves accuracy on uneven ground.
Features
- Zinc alloy case: dense metal housing resists impact and outdoor exposure
- Fluorescent green north arrow: readable in low-light conditions without a battery
- 360-degree circular scale with inclination scale: provides bearing and slope angle readings
- Side ruler: measures distances directly against a map's scale
- Integrated magnifier: supports detailed map reading in the field
- Built-in level: confirms flat positioning for accurate compass readings
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Rothco |
| Case Material | Zinc Alloy |
| Components | Fluorescent green north arrow, 360-degree circular scale, inclination scale, side ruler, magnifier, built-in level |
| Available Colors | Black, Olive Drab |
| Weight | 0.63 lb |
| Country of Origin | China |
California Proposition 65 Warning: This product contains Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
Who This Is For and Isn't
The Rothco Deluxe Marching Compass suits hikers, survivalists, campers, and outdoor explorers who want a multi-function analog compass for map-and-compass navigation. The combination of bearing scale, inclination scale, ruler, magnifier, and level makes it a capable general-purpose field compass for land navigation.
This compass is not a digital or GPS navigation device and does not provide coordinates, route tracking, or electronic mapping. It is not rated for marine or aviation navigation use. Buyers who need a dedicated baseplate orienteering compass or a lensatic military compass will find this a different form factor from those instruments.
Common Questions
What is the case made of on the Rothco Deluxe Marching Compass?
The Rothco Deluxe Marching Compass is housed in a zinc alloy case. Zinc alloy is a dense metal that resists impact and outdoor exposure, making it more durable in field conditions than a plastic housing would be.
Does the compass work in low light or at night?
The Rothco Deluxe Marching Compass features a fluorescent green north arrow that improves readability in low-light conditions. No battery or external light source is required for the arrow to be visible in dim environments.
What does the inclination scale do?
The inclination scale on the Rothco Deluxe Marching Compass measures the angle of a slope. Used alongside a topographic map, it helps you assess terrain grade along a planned route, which is a useful reference when navigating hilly or mountainous terrain on foot.
Can I use this compass to measure distances on a map?
Yes. The Rothco Deluxe Marching Compass includes a side ruler designed to work against a map's printed scale, letting you measure route distances directly on the map without a separate measuring tool. The integrated magnifier also helps with reading fine map detail.
What colors is the Rothco Deluxe Marching Compass available in?
The Rothco Deluxe Marching Compass is available in two colors: Black (SKU RTC-14061) and Olive Drab (SKU RTC-14060). Both variants weigh 0.63 lb and share the same feature set.