Davis Instruments Mark 25 Deluxe Sextant Navigation Tool

I have no idea if there are better machines out there, suffice to say that this was the best available for the price (new). It's a bit like buying a second slr camera. There are good ones and then there others....So I bought this one in the hope it works properly.It came well packed and intact and it looks plasticky. But that is no.bad.thing. - There are many types.of plastic - Some are used in cars, and planes, and, of course boats, and weapons systems etcSo why not instruments? Keep it clean and properly lubricated and all should be hunky dory, OK? And you can wash it out with salt water on the shore if you need to get sand, grit and small sea life etc. Then rinse It in clear water to remove the salt.All I need is large expanse of sea ! Ho Hum. :--)..

This is an ideal instrument for learning celestial navigation, or as a backup instrument for long ocean voyages. It does takes some practice to learn to use it and do the calculations. After a couple of months of practice I can get within about 3 miles of the actual location. You will need the year's celestial almanac and sight reduction tables for the range of latitudes that you will in to use the device.

Easy to use; many how-tos on youtube.

The user should be careful when reading the Sun, as strong light penetrates from the sides of the mirrors and shadows

Very good instrument. Excellent for beginner yet precise enough to perform accurate navigation.

good!