Purpose Of This Compass

[casey1999]

Boat has a Contest compass (bulkhead type). The compass is confusing because it has these colored bands with numbers from 0 to 5 and then repeats. What is the purpose of these numbers and color bands? If you look into the compass on the far side of the rotating horozontal dial you will see the normall 0-360 reading- but this is very difficult to read. Why is the compass set up like this?
Regards

[jackdale]

It is a tactical compass

http://www.plastimousa.com/Tactical.pdf

[Loki9]

I haven't used one like that, but I think the purpose is to let you steer the same number as you tack back and forth toward a windward goal. For example, on the first tack you find yourself steering red 2, then on the next tack you'll want to steer a black 2.

[casey1999]

Originally Posted by Loki9

I haven't used one like that, but I think the purpose is to let you steer the same number as you tack back and forth toward a windward goal. For example, on the first tack you find yourself steering red 2, then on the next tack you'll want to steer a black 2.

Thanks, makes sense. I tried to find a manual on line but no luck yet. Will try it next time I tack.

[celenoglu]

the brochure says it is a inclonometer. I do not know how it works but worth to check.

[casey1999]

Originally Posted by celenoglu

the brochure says it is a inclonometer. I do not know how it works but worth to check.

I believe they are refering to the level type device at the base that will tell you angle of heel.

[jackdale]

Originally Posted by celenoglu

the brochure says it is a inclonometer. I do not know how it works but worth to check.

Many bulkhead compasses have an integrated inclinometer. You can read the heel angle from where the lubber line intersects the scale.

[tommays]

Even on a small boat like a J24 You need two of that type unit to very usefull

[casey1999]

Originally Posted by tommays

Even on a small boat like a J24 You need two of that type unit to very usefull

How would you use two?

[adamsj23]

My bulkhead compass has the clinometer, but the lubber lines don't move, could they be stuck or am am reading wrong? Obviously wouldn't want them to turn.