The Suunto MC-2 NH USGS is a mirror compass with adjustable declination and a built in clinometer. It is balanced for the northern hemisphere and carries USGS scales in inches and miles.

What it's for

A sighting compass for map and compass navigation in the mountains. The clinometer also measures slope angle, which is part of terrain assessment for backcountry travel. OMG runs AIARE avalanche courses that teach how to use slope angle in decision making.

How it works

Needle: high grade steel on a jewel bearing in a liquid filled capsule, which settles the needle quickly

Declination correction: adjustable with the included tool, so the compass reads true bearings once it is set for your area

Sighting mirror: lets you sight a distant landmark and read the bearing at the same time. It also works for signaling

Clinometer: reads slope angle from 0 to 90 degrees in either direction

Bearing lock: orienting indicator holds your bearing

Luminescent markings: readable in low light

Magnifying lens: for reading fine map detail

Compatibility

• Hemisphere: balanced for the northern hemisphere
• Map scales: 1:24,000 (miles and UTM) and 1:50,000 UTM, plus an inch ruler
• Maps: 1:24,000 is the scale of USGS 7.5 minute topographic maps
• How to check yours: read the scale printed in your map's margin and match it to a scale on the baseplate

Setup and installation

• Declination: look up the current declination for your area and set it with the included tool before you navigate

Specs

• Weight: 74 g (2.61 oz)
• Dimensions: 65 x 101 x 18 mm (2.56 x 3.98 x 0.71 in)
• Compass accuracy: 2.5 degrees
• Compass resolution: 2 degrees
• Clinometer scale: 0 to 90 degrees, both directions
• Inclination accuracy: 2 degrees
• Operating temperature: -30 °C to 60 °C (-22 °F to 140 °F)
• Bezel material: plastic
• Battery: none required
• Made in: Finland
• Item number: SS004239001
• NSN: 6605-01-546-9503

In the box

• MC-2 NH USGS mirror compass
• Lanyard with wristlock and declination correction tool
• Quick release
• Quick guide