I'm wondering what everyone is using for a compass for general off-trail land nav.?

Particularly interested if the ex-military folks on here are using the traditional Cammenga 3H Tritium or if most have gone to a civvy brand like Suunto and the like and, if so, why that is.

Thanks.

Another "boat soldier" here... I started using Silva baseplate compasses back in the early 80s and used a Silva Ranger for years. When it came time to replace the current Silvas Rangers were junk so bought a Suunto MC-2G. Been using it for a decade now.

I would say go with whatever you have the most experience with. If you have thousands of miles with a lensatic compass go with the Cammenga, though the tritium version probably isn't a good investment in a decade or so when its faded. If you were issued one but never really had the need to use it I would say get the Suunto instead but for me that is because I use the protractor and other tools for map navigation and not just as a points North or to a bearing tool.

I haven't had the need to use a compass since I worked for the Forest Service (and previously a forward observer in the Marines). It's in my Kit Bag, a Suunto baseplate compass, but it never sees the light of day, even with off trail travel. The reason being, is that I never have guide myself to an exact square meter of earth. (Like I would for Timber Cruising). I use terrain association to guide me to the general area. I keep debating to just let the compass go, but I still keep it in there. Better to have it and not need it I guess. That's why I carry a compass that takes up the least amount of space and is very light, but is still useful if really needed. So, I suggest a Suunto baseplate compass. A Cammenga is more expensive, bulkier, and heavier, and not really worth it in my opinion, unless you plan to Call for Fire ;)

I have two Cammengas. One is the tritium version. One is not. Current infantry officer in the NG. I use them because that's what I was trained on and I don't have any issues with them.