The MCA-D employs Suunto's two-zone system to achieve precise, accurate readings regardless of location. Previously, most compasses functioned well in only one of five geographic zones. That's because the compasses were balanced differently based on the zone's inclination, i.e., the vertical intensity and direction of the Earth's magnetic field. However, as people began to travel more, it became clear that globe-hopping adventurers needed compasses with a greater geographical range. Suunto's two-zone system, by contrast, considers only the northern and southern hemispheres. In practice, this means that a Suunto compass designed for the northern hemisphere--as the MCA-D is--will still work for a fair distance into the southern hemisphere and vice-versa. Suunto is one of only two compass manufacturers to offer two-zone compasses.

The MCA-D, which also sports a patent-pending snap-lock that detaches easily from the lanyard, measures 2.2 by 0.6 by 3.3 inches (W x H x D) with the lid closed and weighs a mere 1.5 ounces. It's also backed by a lifetime warranty.