Compass (for math) that actually works?

[Sahamamama]

This may be a dumb question, but here goes...

 

We're wanting to do some hands-on work in geometry (Hands-On Geometry), but the compasses we've purchased don't seem to actually work! The pencils fall out, the compass won't stay on the measurement where we put it, and we're having a hard time finding anything (in the stores) that seems like it will be better than what we've tried.

 

Any recommendations for a great tool for geometry? I guess we just need something really solid? Thanks!

Edited February 12, 2016 by Sahamamama

[SparklyUnicorn]

Just saw this the other day:

 

http://www.amazon.com/Ruler360-Adjustable-Circular-Ruler-Circle-making/dp/B008UX4DS4/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1455248341&sr=8-12&keywords=compass+math+tool

[Dmmetler]

We have this and it seems to work pretty well

 

http://www.amazon.com/10-Piece-Geometry-Shatterproof-Assorted-897010/dp/B003155XYO/ref=pd_sim_229_3?ie=UTF8&dpID=51cAuaVfevL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR84%2C160_&refRID=0ZKMGD0X6BX53K0N5MD8

[Kiara.I]

Not sure what brands you've tried but I've learned to go straight for Staedtler.

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=staedtler+compass

[quark]

Introductory Alvin Bow Compass from Dick Blick.

 

DS didn't have good fine motor control when he used Hands On Geometry and this compass was very, very helpful because it stayed put! The only small hassle is to make sure the kids don't fiddle too much with the dial that controls the lead length. Just leave it be and sandpaper lead now and then to keep the point sharp.

 

So note that it doesn't use a pencil but a short piece of lead (about an inch+ in length). Dick Blick sells lead refills and sand paper too. Refill packs last quite long depending on use.

Edited February 12, 2016 by quark

[Sherry in OH]

We use the compass from this math tool kit  http://www.amazon.com/Alvin-MS10-10-Piece-Mathematical-Instrument/dp/B003NRV7UE/ref=sr_1_25?ie=UTF8&qid=1455271874&sr=8-25&keywords=math+tool+kit

 

 

[SevenDaisies]

Not sure what brands you've tried but I've learned to go straight for Staedtler.

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=staedtler+compass

We have this one:

http://www.amazon.com/Staedtler-Precision-Student-Comfort-Compass/dp/B0006VZDKU/

 

It doesn't have the measuring guidelines, but it is more accurate to use a compass with a separate ruler.

[Kuovonne]

I like this style.

 

http://www.amazon.com/Learning-Resources-Bullseye-Safe-T-Compass/dp/B0013PA13W/ref=sr_1_19?ie=UTF8&qid=1455287075&sr=8-19&keywords=drawing+compass

[ForeverFamily]

We have this one that came with RS math. I used it for the first time today. It was very easy to use.

 

http://www.amazon.com/Learning-Resources-SAFE-T-Compass-Blister/dp/B003BLT53I/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1455329077&sr=8-8&keywords=Math+compass

[Kareni]

Not sure what brands you've tried but I've learned to go straight for Staedtler.

 

 

Staedtler is what we've used also.

 

Regards,

Kareni

[daijobu]

Another vote for Staetdler.  My kids use my DH's old Staedtler compass, and it's high quality.  (just don't ask me to spell Staedtler!)  

[scoutingmom]

I like the ones used by RightStart, but for a regular style, Staedtler all the way. I took drafting in high school, and Staedtler is the standard for professional drafting (not that it is done by hand very much anymore).

 

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[regentrude]

Staedtler or Rotring