Hey everyone, I just picked up a Brunton TruArc 3 compass after a buddy from a navigation workshop suggested it. I noticed in the class all the compasses had a bubble level, but mine doesn’t have one. Did I accidentally grab a more advanced model or is this normal? I had to be super careful about keeping the compass flat during the class and now I’m wondering if I made the wrong choice. Appreciate any advice…
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Nah, you’re good, not every compass comes with a bubble level. It’s more of a nice-to-have feature but not a must. Your Brunton should work fine without it as long as you practice holding it level. Just takes some getting used to.
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Spirit levels can be helpful, but most people don’t use them once they get the hang of it. Your compass will do the job. If you’re really concerned, they sell tiny add-on levels you can stick onto your compass if you feel like you need that extra help.
You can return it and get one with a level if it’s stressing you out.
Thanks, this helps a lot. Didn’t realize they sell add-on levels. Maybe I’ll try it without for a bit first, though.
I’m a fan of compasses with spirit levels, but that’s just because I’m a bit clumsy, lol. If you’re a beginner and still learning, maybe it’s worth returning it for a model with a bubble level like the Suunto A-30.
If you’re learning, I’d actually recommend sticking with what you have. Sometimes it’s better to learn the harder way so you don’t rely on crutches like a bubble level. You’ll be faster and more confident down the road.
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I definitely relate to the clumsy part, 
. I might keep it for now, but I’ll keep the A-30 in mind in case I need a backup. Thanks for the tip.
You don’t need the bubble. It’s one of those things that’s nice, but not necessary. You’ll get more benefit out of learning how to navigate properly than depending on the tool to do the work for you.