Navigation Gear You Have to Have

Yeah, they used to be $29.95 and I have one but it is not the most accurate compass out there. +/- 5 degrees is about right for a flux gate compass. More reliable though than magnetic that can be way off due to diferences in the earths magnetic field and unseen magnetic items around you ie a rocky outcrop that may have some ferrous content and if we are talking central Australia it's Iron that gives the magnificent colour to the rocks...
Good stuff for a trivia night: Why did the early explorers wander all around the place in Central Oz? Because though they were following their compass headings their headings were flawed due to "ferrous presences".
I really do have to find something else to do don't I?

fairdinkum Fawlty.....ur a cracker mate !!!

I think your theory is a bit fawlty Mr Fawlty !

A flux gate compass works on the earths magnetic field the same as all magnetic compasses ie. non - gps or gyro stabilised DI's.

The only difference between a flux gate compass and the old 'boy scout' handheld is that the pick up needle is mounted remote from the read out.

Any local ferrous outcrop will effect the fluxgate compass the same as it will any other magnetic compass.

A fluxgate compass is designed to have the pickup mounted where it is remote from the magnetic influence of electrical equipment eg. radio, generator, alternator, current carrying cables etc.

Yes by jove you are right...so by that rationale the magnetic needle compass will be more accurate. ( Basil hoiks his Aldi Digital into the bin)
Fortunatley I'm not allowed to get myself into a situation that would allow me to use a compass, unless of the circle drawing type. I find it so much simpler to use a sextant & dead reconing, although with GPS prices dropping I'll soon have no excuse to not own one...

Really? I have a magnetic compass in my GU and I can tell you it's accurate (swung and adjusted).

Mine swings around when it's near the steering wheel. Maybe it's the SRS airbag?