5IVE STAR GEAR GI Lensatic Compass Review

Let’s Dive into 5IVE STAR GEAR GI Lensatic Compass

Navigating the wilderness demands trust in your gear, and for decades, the lensatic compass has been a steadfast companion for soldiers, explorers, and outdoorsmen alike. The 5IVE STAR GEAR GI Lensatic Compass, manufactured by Cammenga, promises that same reliability in a familiar, field-proven design. But in an age of GPS and digital maps, does this analog navigator still hold its own? I’ll unpack its features, test its mettle, and determine if this classic piece of kit deserves a place in your pack.

Years ago, I was completely turned around during a whiteout in the Adirondacks. My phone died, and my GPS watch proved equally useless in the extreme cold. That humbling experience made me swear I’d always carry a reliable analog compass. I sought out a dependable tool and began my search.

Upon unboxing the 5IVE STAR GEAR GI Lensatic Compass, I immediately appreciated its solid, no-nonsense construction. It feels weighty and robust in hand, a far cry from some of the flimsy plastic compasses I’ve encountered. The green finish is classic military, and the provided pouch suggests immediate readiness for field use.

I considered the Suunto MC-2 and the Silva Ranger CL, both excellent compasses with strong reputations. Ultimately, I chose the 5IVE STAR GEAR GI Lensatic Compass because I wanted a design that mirrored what I trained with in the military. Its straightforward simplicity, coupled with the Cammenga name, gave me confidence in its accuracy and durability.

My first impression was positive. This isn’t a flashy gadget; it’s a serious tool built for serious navigation. I was eager to get it out in the field and see if its performance matched its promise.

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Real-World Testing: Putting 5IVE STAR GEAR GI Lensatic Compass to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground was a week-long backpacking trip in the Smoky Mountains. I used the 5IVE STAR GEAR GI Lensatic Compass to navigate off-trail sections, verify my GPS readings, and teach basic land navigation to a couple of novice hikers. The dense forest canopy presented no challenges, and the compass consistently provided accurate bearings.

Even in the frequent rain and high humidity, the 5IVE STAR GEAR GI Lensatic Compass performed flawlessly. The needle remained steady, and the markings were easy to read even with wet hands. Using the compass required a bit of practice to master the sighting technique, but once I got the hang of it, taking accurate bearings became second nature.

After the first day, I was confident in the compass’s ability to withstand typical backcountry conditions. The only initial issue was figuring out the phosphorus night glow face that needs to be charged by a light source prior to low light use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After six months of regular use, including several camping trips and a weekend survival course, the 5IVE STAR GEAR GI Lensatic Compass has proven its durability. There are minor scratches on the metal casing, but the needle remains perfectly balanced, and the lens is still clear. The pouch has kept the compass protected when stored.

Despite being subjected to mud, dust, and occasional accidental drops, the 5IVE STAR GEAR GI Lensatic Compass has shown no signs of mechanical failure. I’ve wiped it down after each trip, but haven’t needed to perform any serious maintenance. It consistently provides reliable readings.

The 5IVE STAR GEAR GI Lensatic Compass outperforms any of the cheaper, plastic compasses I’ve used in the past. Its robust construction and accurate readings provide peace of mind when navigating in challenging environments. It offers a level of dependability that digital devices simply can’t match.

Breaking Down the Features of 5IVE STAR GEAR GI Lensatic Compass

Specifications

The 5IVE STAR GEAR GI Lensatic Compass boasts several key specifications. It is manufactured by Cammenga, a well-known name in military compasses. Its color is a standard military green, and it features a phosphorus night glow face.

These specifications are crucial for field use. The Cammenga build quality ensures reliability and accuracy, while the green color minimizes visibility to others, something to consider in tactical situations. The night glow face allows for navigation in low-light conditions, an essential feature for overnight treks.

Performance & Functionality

The 5IVE STAR GEAR GI Lensatic Compass excels at its primary function: providing accurate directional bearings. Its damped needle settles quickly, minimizing wobble and ensuring precise readings. The sighting wire and magnifying lens allow for accurate target acquisition, even at long distances.

The compass’s main strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. There are no batteries to die or digital screens to fail. A potential weakness is the learning curve associated with mastering the lensatic sighting technique. Still, the compass meets expectations for reliable navigation, but would not exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The 5IVE STAR GEAR GI Lensatic Compass features a robust metal construction that inspires confidence. Its weight is substantial but not burdensome, providing a solid feel in hand. The folding design protects the lens and sighting wire when not in use.

The compass is relatively user-friendly, though mastering the lensatic sighting technique requires practice. The luminous markings are clear and easy to read in low light, and the overall design is straightforward and intuitive. However, I find the declination adjustment to be stiff.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its metal construction and reputation, the 5IVE STAR GEAR GI Lensatic Compass should last for many years with proper care. The moving parts are well-protected, and the compass is designed to withstand harsh conditions.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris. The Cammenga name inspires confidence in the compass’s longevity and reliability. I would assume that you could find parts if you needed to fix something.

Accessories and Customization Options

The 5IVE STAR GEAR GI Lensatic Compass comes with a simple nylon pouch for protection and easy carry. There are limited customization options for this particular model.

The compass is compatible with standard military compass pouches and can be used with map reading tools and protractors. Aftermarket luminous paint can be applied to further enhance night visibility, but it is probably not required. It’s not really that kind of item.

Pros and Cons of 5IVE STAR GEAR GI Lensatic Compass