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The vast majority of the small compasses on the market are complete garbage. They quickly develop bubbles, break, reverse poles, and generally display all sorts of behaviors that make them impossible to trust. Tru-Nord compasses are the exact opposite. The quality of these compasses is legendary. They are far and away the best button compasses that I have ever used.

Tru-Nord’s compasses have a number of features that really set them apart. First, they are dry compasses. This means that there is no dampening fluid inside the body of the compass. It can’t leak, it can’t develop bubbles, and it won’t slow down in cold weather. Second, the bodies of the compasses are made from solid brass. They can really take a beating. Finally, they can be ordered per-compensated for the magnetic declination of your intended area of use. Say good bye to LARS and RALS.

I used to own one of the 200CB pin on models and I foolishly gave it away years ago. It could be kept pinned to a jacket or backpack strap (or chest rig, or plate carrier) and referenced easily just by glancing down. The huge brass pin was very secure it just seemed to shrug off anything the trail could throw at it. This little trip down memory lane is making me want to order a new compass!

Check out TruNord.com.

SAR Global Tool, maker of the Eclipse Signal System and other cool stuff, has just launched their new website. The new site features an improved store that makes it easy to tell what is in stock and available. Check it out at SARGlobalTool.com.

We have mentioned the Battle Systems Marker Panel, Indvidual, LW (MPIL) here before as we looked forward to its release. Now, we finally have the release dates for this lightweight, compact day/night capable marker system.

This Multicam Mystery Ranch Crew Cab would be tough to spot without the MPIL affixed to it.

The MPIL is designed to replace the legacy VIS-17 panels which are used by ground combat elements for communicating with other ground personnel or air elements. The VIS-17 panels need to be cut down and modified in order to be useful but the MPIL comes ready to work. It is already a handy 17″ x 17″ size and weighs about 1 ounce. It can be folded down to a package that is about 2.5″ x 2.5″ x .5″. There are  sides, international orange (blaze orange) and fluorescent pink, each with a color matched Velcro square in the center which allows the user to attach IR reflective markers (available as an option) for low light/no light use. The tie downs at each corner allow the MPIL to be affixed to your gear or connected to other MPIL via carabiners (National Molding Poli Binas will be available at the time of purchase).

All of this functionality makes for a versatile piece of gear for military personal or any outdoor adventurers. These panels have a place in any kit and are useful for getting found and staying found. Jon L and I are working on a full review of the MPIL.

Battle Systems is initially releasing what it calls the Mk1 version on June 24th. This initial version is about 80% Berry Compliant and it features OD green tie down loops at all 4 corners. The coming Mk2 version will display changes including 100% Berry Compliance and Coyote Brown tie down loops. The best part about this Mk1 version is the special price. They will be available for only $14.99 (the Mk2 version will cost $19.99).

Check out the MPIL at Battle System’s website.