X-Compass Magnifying Glass

A convenient magnifying glass that attaches to any X-Compass thumb compass.

I felt that I was having trouble seeing necessary details on 1:10000 and 1:15000 maps. After looking into multiple ways of magnifying my map while orienteering:

• Orienteering specific reading glasses (they're cut out for distance)
• Different prescription contacts (distance in one eye, close up for the other)
• Handheld magnifying glass worn around the neck
• Compass attached magnifier

A dedicated magnifying glass on my compass seemed the most convenient and best choice for me.

Ease of use: Tighten as needed and it magnifies the area underneath. 

Features: It's convenient to have a magnifier on the compass that is always in focus and right where I need it. 

Constructions & Durability: It feels well made and the metal screw provides strength to the post. I don't know how it will hold after a fall, but I think the weakest link is where it attaches to the thumb plate.

Conditions: I've used it for a couple of weeks so far. Hot and cold shouldn't make a difference, but I need to wipe it off during rain and snow. It got foggy while using it in wet weather in the 30s. I'll need to see if anti-fog will help.

One of the reasons I chose the X-Compass was because of its less expensive magnifier. Before tax at best4o.com, the X-Compass magnifier is 20.66€, the Str8 magnifier is 57.02€, and the Silva magnifier is 37.19€. The Str8 and Silva models attach through the thumb strap while the X-Compass attaches using a post through a pre-cut hole in the plate. 

Background

I've participated in competitive orienteering for three years now and compete in orienteering races close to 20 times a year. I also instruct Scouts and newcomers to the sport and practice orienteering on my own about once a week. I own four thumb compasses, but this is my first magnifier.