The Proster IP65 is sold worldwide—almost exclusively online. Its popularity comes down to two key reasons: it's (very) significantly cheaper than compasses from major brands, and—unusually for a Chinese-made compass—it has genuinely high ratings from buyers. Its rugged look adds to the appeal, but at its core, this compass is all about affordability and reasonable quality.
However, despite its widespread use, finding clear instructions is almost impossible, this is the reason I have uploaded this video. There are no official online guides, and the instruction booklet that comes with the compass is, to put it mildly, difficult to understand.
The Proster IP65 is a lensatic compass, meaning it works like others of its type. However, it does include a unique feature: an Estimation Table on the back. This helps users approximate distances to landscape features and gauge height variations—a handy addition for navigation and outdoor adventures.
If you have any questions or comments about this vide please put them in the comments box.
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Link to the declination videos mentioned in the video:
WAvES - how to adjust for declination https://youtu.be/Tf9rrmq5Vf8
What is declination - (simple answer) https://youtu.be/Ye5jI9LGpc8
Declination Simplified - https://youtu.be/qXCIb-TNBME
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List of compass features:
1 Sighting notch
2 Thumb loop
3 Adjustable lens
4 Inclinometer scale
5 Inclinometer
6 Metric ruler
7 Sight line
8 Reticule
9 Prism (which is useless)
10 1:25K scale
11 Index line
12 Spirit level
13 Luminous bezel marked in degrees
14 Bezel prism
15 North line - points at 360 on the bezel
North pointing arrow
16 Magnetic disk marked in degrees and cardinal points
17 (on rear) Estimation table
18 (on rear) Tripod mount