Let’s Dive into Explorer Watchband Compass
For seasoned outdoorsmen and tactical enthusiasts, navigation is paramount. Losing your way can quickly turn a weekend hike into a life-threatening situation. The Explorer Watchband Compass, offered at the unbelievably low price of $1.99, promises to be a minimalist solution, providing a constant directional reference right on your wrist. Is this a game-changer, or just a cheap trinket? I aim to find out.
My need for a reliable backup compass stemmed from a recent incident during a solo backcountry trek. My primary GPS unit failed due to battery issues, and while I had a map and full-sized compass in my pack, accessing them in a hurry proved cumbersome in dense brush. This near-miss drove me to seek a readily accessible, always-on navigational aid.
Upon receiving the Explorer Watchband Compass, my first impression was…underwhelming. It’s incredibly small and lightweight, almost to the point of feeling flimsy. The plastic housing feels cheap, and the compass face is tiny. It looks like something you’d find in a kids’ party favor bag.
I had been considering the Suunto Clipper L/B NH Compass and the Silva Starter 123 Compass, both reputable brands with proven track records. However, the price point of the Explorer Watchband Compass was so low that I figured it was worth a shot as a backup to my backup. Plus, the other two don’t integrate as seamlessly with a watchband.
Initially, I was skeptical, to say the least. I expected something more robust. I was surprised at just how diminutive it is; and worried it wouldn’t last, or give an accurate reading. But for $1.99, my expectations are tempered; I’m hoping it performs better than it initially appears.
Real-World Testing: Putting Explorer Watchband Compass to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Explorer Watchband Compass during a weekend fishing trip in the Ozark Mountains. I strapped it onto the watchband of my G-Shock and headed into the woods, navigating along a creek bed. The conditions were mostly dry, but humidity was high, and there were occasional light drizzles.
The Explorer Watchband Compass performed adequately, providing a general sense of direction. Its small size made it somewhat difficult to read at a glance, particularly in low light conditions. I noticed the needle seemed to stick slightly, requiring a gentle tap to settle.
My biggest concern after the first use was its durability. The plastic housing felt fragile, and I worried it wouldn’t hold up to repeated impacts or abrasion against rocks and branches. I felt there was a good chance of the housing cracking.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a few months of intermittent use on hiking trips and range days, the Explorer Watchband Compass has surprisingly held up better than expected. There are minor scratches on the plastic face, but the housing remains intact. However, my initial concerns about the needle sticking have proven to be valid.
The compass requires frequent tapping to ensure an accurate reading, which can be frustrating when you need a quick directional reference. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is all it takes. The accuracy issue remained, meaning that the compass was unreliable.
Compared to my experience with higher-end compasses, the Explorer Watchband Compass is a definite downgrade. It’s not nearly as reliable or accurate as my Suunto MC-2, but it serves its purpose as a readily available backup, given its small size and ease of use. However, I would need to rely on a primary navigation system if I wanted to ensure I don’t get lost.
Breaking Down the Features of Explorer Watchband Compass
Specifications
The Explorer Watchband Compass is a small, button compass designed to attach to a watchband. Its main specifications include a plastic housing, liquid-filled capsule, and standard magnetic needle. There are no listed dimensions or weight specifications from the Manufacturer.
These specifications dictate its performance and usability. The liquid-filled capsule is supposed to dampen needle movement for quicker and more accurate readings, but as I have found this isn’t the case. The plastic housing aims to keep the weight down and allow for use as a wrist instrument.
Performance & Functionality
The Explorer Watchband Compass provides basic directional guidance. It points north, albeit sometimes hesitantly. Its primary strength is its convenience; it’s always there on your wrist.
The compass’s main weaknesses are its small size, inaccurate readings, and questionable durability. It does not meet the expectations of a primary navigational tool but serves as a rudimentary backup. It does not offer good accuracy.
Design & Ergonomics
The Explorer Watchband Compass features a minimalist design intended for easy integration with a watchband. The lightweight plastic construction makes it comfortable to wear, and avoids excess weight. The tiny size is a problem however, making it harder to read and less confidence-inspiring.
The Explorer Watchband Compass is easy to use, requiring no special knowledge or training. Just strap it onto your watchband and go. There isn’t any learning curve, which is to be expected of a simple button compass.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its inexpensive construction, the Explorer Watchband Compass‘s long-term durability is questionable. It’s prone to scratches and cracks, especially with heavy use. It does require very little maintenance.
The plastic can be easily cleaned with water, and there are no moving parts that require lubrication or adjustment. Should it fail, it’s inexpensive to replace.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Explorer Watchband Compass comes with no accessories, and there are no customization options. It’s a simple, standalone product. It is universally compatible with any watchband that has enough space to accommodate it.
Pros and Cons of Explorer Watchband Compass
Pros
- Extremely inexpensive at $1.99.
- Conveniently attaches to a watchband for ready access.
- Lightweight and comfortable to wear.
- Simple to use with no learning curve.
- Provides a basic directional reference in a pinch.
Cons
- Very small size makes it difficult to read.
- Inaccurate readings; needle sticks frequently.
- Questionable durability; plastic housing feels flimsy.
Who Should Buy Explorer Watchband Compass?
The Explorer Watchband Compass is perfect for casual hikers, campers, or anyone who wants a simple, inexpensive backup compass for emergencies. It could also be useful for children learning basic navigation skills.
This product should be skipped by serious outdoorsmen, survivalists, or anyone who relies on accurate navigation for their safety. This is not a replacement for a quality compass and map.
Must-have accessories include a reliable map and a high-quality primary compass. A good GPS unit is also highly recommended for serious backcountry travel.
Conclusion on Explorer Watchband Compass
The Explorer Watchband Compass is a mixed bag. It’s incredibly affordable and convenient but suffers from accuracy and durability issues. At $1.99, it’s hard to complain too much, but its shortcomings limit its usefulness.
The price is justified if you view it as a disposable backup. However, don’t expect it to perform like a professional-grade compass.
Personally, I would recommend it as a supplemental tool for light outdoor activities or as a novelty item. But, I would never rely on it as my sole navigational aid. The Explorer Watchband Compass is a cheap and cheerful compass, but remember, you get what you pay for. Always have a backup plan, and invest in reliable gear for serious adventures!