Let’s Talk About Raymarine Small Cradle f/Micro Compass
The Raymarine Small Cradle f/Micro Compass might seem like a simple accessory, but in the world of sailing and navigation, even the smallest component can make a significant difference. This unassuming mid-grey cradle, manufactured by Raymarine, is designed to securely house and display your Micro Compass, ensuring it’s always accessible and protected. It promises a dedicated mounting solution, moving away from makeshift arrangements and potentially unreliable placements.
My journey to finding this product started with a frustrating experience of constantly repositioning my Micro Compass on my dinghy. I needed a reliable, dedicated mount that would keep my compass secure even in rough conditions, without obstructing my movement or visibility. I was tired of the compass sliding around or, worse, falling overboard.
Upon receiving the Raymarine Small Cradle f/Micro Compass, my initial impression was one of understated quality. The plastic feels robust and durable, not flimsy or cheap. Its small size and clean design immediately made me confident that it would integrate seamlessly into my boat’s cockpit.
I considered a few alternatives, including a DIY mounting system and a universal compass bracket from a competitor. The DIY route seemed time-consuming and potentially less secure, while the universal bracket felt bulky and lacked the tailored fit of the Raymarine product. I chose the Raymarine Small Cradle f/Micro Compass for its promise of simplicity, dedicated fit, and the reputation of Raymarine for quality marine electronics.
I was cautiously optimistic. The cradle seemed well-made, but I was eager to see how it would perform under the real-world stresses of sailing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Raymarine Small Cradle f/Micro Compass to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Raymarine Small Cradle f/Micro Compass came during a club race on a windy Saturday. I mounted the cradle on the side of the cockpit using adhesive pads (not included), ensuring a secure and easily visible position. The cradle held the Micro Compass perfectly, even as the boat heeled dramatically.
The cradle performed flawlessly. The compass remained firmly in place, providing clear and consistent readings even when the boat was being buffeted by waves and wind. It was easy to glance at the compass without having to fumble or adjust its position.
There were no surprises; the cradle did exactly what it was designed to do, providing a secure and stable platform for my Micro Compass. This significantly improved my situational awareness during the race.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Raymarine Small Cradle f/Micro Compass continues to perform admirably. It has endured everything from scorching summer sun to driving rain and saltwater spray, and shows no signs of degradation. The color has remained consistent, and the plastic hasn’t become brittle.
The cradle has proven incredibly durable. There are no cracks, scratches, or signs of wear, even after being subjected to the harsh marine environment. Maintenance is virtually non-existent. A quick rinse with fresh water after each sailing session is all it needs to keep it in top condition.
Compared to my previous makeshift mounting solutions, the Raymarine Small Cradle f/Micro Compass is a revelation. It offers superior stability, durability, and ease of use. It simply makes sailing more enjoyable and less stressful.
Breaking Down the Features of Raymarine Small Cradle f/Micro Compass
Specifications
The Raymarine Small Cradle f/Micro Compass is a purpose-built accessory designed specifically for mounting the Raymarine Micro Compass. It is constructed from durable, mid-grey plastic. It weighs virtually nothing and has compact dimensions tailored to fit the Micro Compass snugly.
The grey color helps prevent glare and overheating in direct sunlight. The small size ensures it doesn’t take up valuable space in the cockpit. The robust plastic construction guarantees it can withstand the rigors of marine use.
Performance & Functionality
The Raymarine Small Cradle f/Micro Compass excels at its primary function: securely holding the Micro Compass. The compass snaps in and out of the cradle with ease, yet remains firmly in place during even the most aggressive maneuvers. It provides a stable and easily visible platform for the compass, enhancing situational awareness and navigation.
Its main strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. It’s a well-designed piece of kit that performs its intended function flawlessly. A minor improvement could be the inclusion of mounting hardware (screws or adhesive pads), though this would likely increase the price.
The Raymarine Small Cradle f/Micro Compass meets and exceeds expectations. It provides a reliable and convenient mounting solution for the Micro Compass.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Raymarine Small Cradle f/Micro Compass is simple and functional. The cradle is made of a single piece of molded plastic, with a shaped recess that perfectly accommodates the Micro Compass. Its lightweight construction ensures that it doesn’t add unnecessary weight to the boat.
It is incredibly user-friendly; there is no learning curve. The Micro Compass simply snaps into place.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust plastic construction, the Raymarine Small Cradle f/Micro Compass is expected to last for many years. It is resistant to UV degradation, saltwater corrosion, and general wear and tear. Maintenance is minimal.
A quick rinse with fresh water is all that’s needed to keep it clean. The product is designed for longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Raymarine Small Cradle f/Micro Compass itself doesn’t come with any additional accessories. It is a standalone mounting solution. It is designed specifically for the Raymarine Micro Compass, so there aren’t any customization options as such.
However, the user has flexibility in how the cradle is mounted to the boat, using screws, adhesive pads, or other suitable methods. While not customization in the traditional sense, the mounting options allow tailoring to specific boat layouts.
Pros and Cons of Raymarine Small Cradle f/Micro Compass
Pros
- Dedicated fit for the Raymarine Micro Compass: Provides a secure and stable mounting platform.
- Durable construction: Withstands the harsh marine environment.
- Simple and easy to use: No learning curve; the Micro Compass snaps in and out with ease.
- Lightweight design: Doesn’t add unnecessary weight to the boat.
- Enhances situational awareness: Keeps the compass visible and accessible.
Cons
- Mounting hardware not included: Requires separate purchase of screws or adhesive pads.
- Limited customization options: Designed specifically for the Raymarine Micro Compass.
Who Should Buy Raymarine Small Cradle f/Micro Compass?
The Raymarine Small Cradle f/Micro Compass is perfect for any sailor who uses the Raymarine Micro Compass and wants a secure, dedicated mounting solution. This includes dinghy racers, keelboat sailors, and cruising yachtsmen. Anyone who values ease of use, durability, and improved situational awareness will benefit from this product.
Those who are happy with their current compass mounting solution or who prefer to use a handheld compass might not need this product. If you are looking for a universal compass mount that will fit a variety of compass sizes, this is not the product for you.
A must-have accessory is a suitable mounting solution, such as marine-grade adhesive pads or stainless steel screws.
Conclusion on Raymarine Small Cradle f/Micro Compass
The Raymarine Small Cradle f/Micro Compass is a simple but effective accessory that provides a secure and convenient mounting solution for the Raymarine Micro Compass. Its durable construction, ease of use, and dedicated fit make it a worthwhile investment for any serious sailor. At $48.99, the price is justified by the improved functionality and peace of mind it offers.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Raymarine Small Cradle f/Micro Compass to anyone who uses a Raymarine Micro Compass. It’s a small upgrade that makes a big difference. Don’t let your compass slide around and potentially get damaged or lost. Invest in the Raymarine Small Cradle f/Micro Compass and enjoy a more secure and enjoyable sailing experience.