SUUNTO A-30 Compass
- Item Weight: 0.1 pounds
- Material Type: Plastic
- Mounting Type: Tabletop Mount
- Number of Items: 1
Last refreshed Sep 7, 2026 · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.
A compact, accurate hiking compass with a genuine feature step up from the basic A-10, best for northern hemisphere hikers who do not need adjustable declination.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. ProductDome earns a commission when you buy through links on this page.
ASIN: B000FEXZH6Model: A-30Category: Compasses
Overview
The Suunto A-30 is a compact baseplate hiking compass with a jewel-bearing steel needle, luminous markings for low light and a fixed declination set for the northern hemisphere.
This sits a step above Suunto's most basic A-10 in the same lineup by adding a magnifying lens and glow-in-the-dark markings, while staying simpler than the mirror-equipped MC-2. The fixed declination, rather than adjustable, is worth noting for anyone who travels across regions with very different magnetic declination values.
- Compact baseplate hiking compass
- Jewel-bearing needle in liquid-filled capsule
- Luminescent low-light markings
- Fixed declination for northern hemisphere use
Who it's for
Good for hikers and orienteers who want a straightforward, accurate baseplate compass with visibility in dim light. Those who need to correct for changing declination across trips, or want mirror sighting, should look at the MC-2 instead.
Pros and cons
- Jewel-bearing steel needle for fast, stable readings
- Luminous markings usable in low light
- Magnifying lens for reading small map detail
- No batteries required
- Fixed declination, not adjustable like the MC-2
- No mirror sight for long-distance bearings
Performance notes
A jewel-bearing steel needle in a liquid-filled capsule gives a fast, stable reading, and the magnifying lens on the transparent baseplate helps line up small map features while plotting a route. Luminescent markings hold a glow for reading in dim conditions, and the fixed declination setting means it is balanced for northern hemisphere use out of the box rather than adjustable per region.
Specifications
| Brand | Suunto |
|---|---|
| Model | A-30 |
| Dimensions & fit | |
| Item Weight | 0.1 pounds |
| Item Dimensions L x W | 4.5 × 2.4 inches |
| Construction & materials | |
| Material Type | Plastic |
| Compatibility & installation | |
| Mounting Type | Tabletop Mount |
| Included components | |
| Unit Count | 1 |
| Included Components | Compass |
| Warranty & support | |
| Warranty Description | Squared |
| Other details | |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Additional Features | Lightweight, Washable |
| Item Type Name | compass |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Suunto A-30 have adjustable declination?
No, it has a fixed declination balanced for northern hemisphere use. Suunto's MC-2 is the adjustable-declination option in the same lineup.
Does it glow in the dark?
Yes, it has luminescent markings for use in low light conditions.
Does it need batteries?
No, it is a mechanical, liquid filled compass.