If you are interested in firearms, then chances are you need a timepiece that is durable and weather-proof.
When it comes to hunting in the wild, your watch is often the first thing to succumb to the harsh conditions of the great outdoors, which is why you need to invest in a watch that can withstand these cruel environments.
Nowadays, it is possible to purchase tactical watches, which have been made for outdoor activities, whether that be hunting, climbing, or military missions.
In the following article, we have compiled a list of the best tactical watches available online, which have been tried and tested by our team.
These watches are perfect for hunters and come with various features for a smooth session.
Tactical Watch Review
Suunto Traverse Alpha
For the first product on our list, we have chosen this amazing watch from Suunto, which is ideal for hunting and other hobbies.
Made from durable composite materials, this watch also comes with a water-repellant strap and stainless steel bezel.
The product features a built-in GPS, which can be used to show your current location and find other members in your group. It also comes with an automatic shot detector, which is able to save coordinates and use them as a waypoint to discover the source.
Because of the watch’s GPS feature, you can also access tactical information, such as the distance, duration, and speed.
This information can be downloaded onto the mobile app, which can also be connected to the watch.
Pros
- The watch comes with a built-in GPS feature, which allows you to find your location and track other members.
- The product is made from durable materials, such as composite, stainless steel, and sapphire glass.
- The watch includes a range of tactical features, such as an automatic shot detector and moon phase calendar.
- The product is simple to use and can be accessed via the mobile app for more tactical information.
Cons
- Some customers have complained about the condition of the mobile app and the time it takes to connect to the watch.
Casio Rangeman GW9400-3
When it comes to durable and reliable timepieces, there’s nothing better than this amazing product from Casio.
Made from strong and resistant materials, the watch is water-repellent and can be worn in a range of harsh weather conditions.
The shock-resistant buttons are also easy to access and can be operated with cold fingers and gloves. Beyond this, the watch also comes with a series of tactical features, such as a compass and a barometer.
You also don’t have to be concerned about keeping the watch charged, as it comes with a solar-powered battery that can last up to 8 months without exposure to the sun.
Pros
- The watch comes with a variety of tactical features, such as a compass, barometer, and altimeter.
- The product features a durable design, as it has been made from resistant materials that can withstand extreme weather conditions.
- The watch includes accessible buttons, which can be operated while wearing gloves or with numb fingers.
- The battery runs on solar power and can run for 8 months without direct exposure to the sun.
Cons
- The display overview can be hard to read in certain situations, as the screen is small and complicated.
Garmin Tactix Delta
This product is another sophisticated timepiece for tactical enthusiasts, as it includes GPS devices and a durable finish.
Made from resistant materials, the watch comes complete with a protective bezel that has been coated in DLC steel.
The lens is made from abrasion-resistant glass and allows you to access the data on the watch’s face. The Garmin also comes complete with a built-in GPS and includes several tactical features.
With this watch, you will always be able to find your location, as it comes with a tactical mode that grants access to maps and coordinates.
Pros
- The watch comes with several navigation options, such as a built-in GPS and access to maps and coordinates.
- The product features a durable design, as it comes with a DLC steel bezel and an abrasion-resistant lens.
- The watch includes several tactical features, which include a jumpmaster, sun and moon information, and much more.
- The product can be connected to your smartphone via the mobile app, which will send notifications and other alerts.
Cons
- Some customers have complained about the condition of the mobile app, as it is prone to disconnections.
Suunto Core Military
If you want something more elegant, then you should take a look at this amazing watch from Suunto, which remains a firm favorite with military soldiers.
Known for its versatile nature and accessible controls, the watch features a sleek and tactical design, which means it can be worn in various situations.
The product also comes with several tactical features, which include a compass and thermometer. The battery is easy to replace and capable of lasting for 12 months while on time mode.
Because of its unique design, the watch can even be worn while snorkeling and comes with a barometer that will alert you to storms and pressure conditions.
Pros
- The watch features an elegant and tactical design, which means it can be worn for both tactical and normal reasons.
- The product can be worn in various environments and can be used as a normal watch during the day.
- The watch comes with several tactical features, which include a compass, barometer, and thermometer.
Cons
- Despite its tactical design, the watch is not very durable and could be susceptible to shock and damage.
Casio PRT-B50 Protek
If you have been searching for a watch with a technical edge, then you should consider the Casio PRT-B50.
Known for its modern design, the watch comes with a range of technical features such as a digital screen and a traditional face.
The core of the watch is protected by a resin coating and can be secured to the wrist with its comfortable textile strap. It can also be used to measure altitude, temperature, and much more.
Beyond this, the watch also comes complete with a compass, barometer, and altimeter – which can be used to detect the weather and locate your position.
Pros
- The watch features a modern and durable design, which has been made using resistant materials such as resin.
- The product comes with a variety of tactical features such as a compass, altimeter, and barometer.
- The watch includes both a digital and analog display, which makes it easier to find data and tell the time.
- The product can be connected to your smartphone for active navigation and location tracking.
Cons
- While it is possible to connect the watch to your Bluetooth device, the process can take some time and is prone to errors.
Buyer’s Guide
Purchasing a tactical watch may sound like a simple notion, as all tactical watches have been manufactured for the same purpose.
However, there are certain elements that should be taken into consideration before purchasing a new watch. Elements that help to ensure that the product meets your expectations and needs.
In the section below, we have outlined some key points that should be kept in mind when it comes to purchasing a tactical watch.
By taking these points into consideration, you will be able to find the best watch for your needs, which should make it easier to save money and make use of your time.
Durability
When it comes to tactical watches, it’s important to choose one that features a durable design, as these watches are meant to be worn outdoors and in harsh conditions.
For this reason, we have decided to showcase products made from durable materials, whether that be stainless steel or abrasion-resistant glass.
These materials are some of the best when it comes to tactical watches, as they ensure that the core remains protected from moisture and extreme weather.
For example, we would recommend choosing a tactical watch with a sapphire glass lens, as this material offers better abrasion than its mineral counterpart.
Stainless steel can also aid in the protection of the watch’s core, as this material is resistant to scratches and rust.
It’s important to remember that tactical watches will need to be worn outside, so you will need to purchase a watch made from materials that are able to withstand these conditions.
Design
In most cases, a tactical watch should feature a robust design, as it will need to be worn in harsh conditions. It is also important to choose a watch that comes in a dark or discreet color, as vibrant hues could attract unwanted attention.
This is a crucial characteristic of watches worn by the armed forces, as it allows them to blend into their surroundings without raising suspicion.
Because of this, we have chosen to showcase watches that are only available in dark colors, whether that be green, black or brown.
While it is possible to purchase more sophisticated tactical watches, you will need to make sure that they are able to withstand weather and harsh environments. Otherwise, the watch could get damaged before you’ve had a chance to use it.
Comfort
Since tactical watches are often worn outside, you will need to find one that features a durable yet comfortable strap.
In most cases, tactical watch straps will be made from resistant materials and textiles, which makes them suitable for outdoor wear.
However, this can sometimes result in an uncomfortable experience, which can make it difficult to focus on the task at hand.
For this reason, we decided to showcase watches that came with comfortable straps, with most being made from waterproof textiles and silicone.
While these materials have proven more comfortable to wear, they also come with various benefits and can even include ergonomic features.
Battery
Another important thing to consider is the watch’s battery, as you will need one that can last a long time without needing to be replaced.
All the watches we selected come with replaceable batteries, which are able to run for 12 months in time mode.
This means that the battery can last a year if you don’t use the watch’s additional features, such as the GPS and tactical additions.
Nowadays, you can even purchase tactical watches with solar batteries, which means they will continue to charge whenever you wear them outside.
In most cases, GPS watches will have a short battery life, however, they will also come with more features.
Out of the GPS watches we selected, most come with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which means they will not need to be replaced once the power runs out.
Tactical Features
While most tactical watches will be able to tell the time and date, they should also come with advanced features for navigation and tactician.
In most cases, these features will take the form of a compass, barometer, and altimeter – which can be used to determine your location and detect changes in atmospheric pressure.
These features will make it easier to become familiar with your surroundings, while also keeping a detailed record of the weather and the locations of potential game.
In certain cases, tactical watches will even come with additional functions, with some of the most common being moon calendars, sunset times, and advanced military settings such as automatic shot detectors.
Of course, the features you want will come down to your personal preference.
However, we do advise choosing a watch that includes a compass and some of the more common tactical features, as this will make it easier to navigate the space and remain aware of the weather conditions.
GPS
As we mentioned before, GPS watches are known to have a shorter battery life, which is one reason why some customers choose to avoid them.
However, it is important to remember that they also come with a variety of unique features, such as the ability to produce new coordinates in seconds.
Beyond this, GPS watches can also be used to find your location and navigate pre-planned routes, as they allow you to find waypoints and destinations.
In most instances, these kinds of tactical watches are commonly used in the armed forces, as they make it easier to locate other soldiers and hide from potential dangers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Tactical Watch Is The Best?
If you are interested in purchasing a tactical watch, then chances are you want to spend your money on the best one.
However, this is something easier said than done, as the best tactical watch will vary depending on your needs and expectations.
For example, we would personally recommend the Suunto Traverse Alpha, as it is a durable watch that comes with a variety of tactical features.
The main drawback of this watch is that it can be hard to connect to the mobile app, which means it may not be suitable for those who want a more technical product.
If you consider yourself a true outdoorsman, then you could take a look at the Suunto Core Military, which has been designed to withstand various environments.
Because of its unique design, it is even possible to wear this watch underwater, which makes it one of the more versatile products we have mentioned.
Classing one tactical watch as the ‘best’ is a complicated thing to do, as a product we consider to be inferior could be exactly what you are looking for.
Because of this, we do recommend reading through our guide and learning more about the watches before you decide which one you should purchase.
Why Do The Military Wear Watches?
In most instances, the military will wear tactical watches to determine their location and avoid potential threats.
As we mentioned before, the military commonly uses watches with GPS systems, as this allows them to record their position and access tactical information such as the weather, altitude, and environment.
In the armed forces, it is tradition to wear your watch upside down, as this makes it easier to read the time while holding a firearm or hiding from the enemy.
It is also common for military watches to feature additional functions to ensure the soldier’s safety, whether that be a shot detector or alarm.
Why Are Military Watches So Small?
Military watches were originally designed for function over form, as they were expected to withstand severe abuse from the elements and their wearers.
For this reason, they were made small to maintain a low profile while sitting comfortably on the wearer’s wrist. Their discreet size also made it easier to hide the watch under a sleeve while wearing it for hours on end.
However, this practice is now associated with field watches more than tactical ones, as the latter is less conspicuous in their size.
Because of this, tactical watches are usually sold in dark or discreet colors, which makes them easier to blend into their surroundings.
For example, most tactical watches available online come in shades of black, green, and brown – which are used to mimic the natural environment.
In comparison, field watches are also less gaudy, as they do not come with tactical features or additional functions.
