As an avid hunter and night vision gear enthusiast, I’ve learned that having the right equipment can make or break your outdoor adventures. One piece of gear that often gets overlooked but can be a real lifesaver is a good tactical watch. These rugged timepieces are built to withstand extreme conditions and packed with features to help you navigate, track, and survive in the wilderness.
I’ve tested dozens of tactical watches over the years on hunting trips, backcountry hikes, and even a few harrowing survival situations. Trust me, when you’re lost in the backcountry as the sun is setting, you’ll be glad you invested in a watch with a reliable compass and GPS.
In this guide, I’ll break down my top 10 picks for the best tactical watches on the market in 2024. I’ve included options for every budget and need, from basic military-style analog watches to high-tech GPS smartwatches. Let’s dive in!
Garmin Instinct Solar Tactical
Best Overall Tactical Watch
Key Features:
- Solar charging for extended battery life
- Built-in GPS, GLONASS and Galileo
- Military-grade durability (MIL-STD-810)
- Stealth mode for covert ops
- Heart rate and stress monitoring
If I could only recommend one tactical watch, it would be the Garmin Instinct Solar Tactical. This thing is an absolute beast when it comes to outdoor capability and ruggedness. The solar charging gives it practically unlimited battery life – I’ve gone on week-long backcountry trips without needing to recharge.
The military-grade durability means it can take a beating, and the stealth mode is great for hunting when you don’t want any lights or beeps giving away your position. The GPS is incredibly accurate, and it has all the ABC sensors (altimeter, barometer, compass) you need for navigation.
- Go longer than ever with solar charging that gives you unlimited battery life in smartwatch mode (assuming all-day wear with 3 hours per day outside in 50,000 lux conditions)
- Battery life: in smartwatch mode, unlimited with solar charging in 3 hours of direct sunlight (50,000 lux) per day; in GPS mode, up to 48 hours with solar charging continuously in direct sunlight (50,000 lux)
- Dedicated tactical features include Jumpmaster activity, waypoint projection, dual-position GPS format and preloaded tactical activity
While it’s on the pricier side at around $450, for serious outdoor enthusiasts it’s worth every penny. Just last fall, I got turned around on an elk hunt in some rough mountain terrain. The Instinct’s navigation features got me back to my camp just as darkness was falling. That kind of reliability is priceless when you’re miles from civilization.
Casio G-Shock Rangeman GW-9400
Best Budget Tactical Watch
Key Features:
- Triple Sensor (altimeter, barometer, compass)
- Solar powered
- Mud and shock resistant
- 200m water resistance
- Sunrise/sunset data
Casio’s G-Shock line is legendary for toughness, and the Rangeman takes it to the next level with tactical features. At under $200, it’s an incredible value for the capabilities you get. The Triple Sensor provides key environmental data, while the solar charging means you never have to worry about battery life.
- Designed with a black digital dial displaying the date, day, and time features, grey accents, and a black resin band
- These pipes not only act to protect buttons from impact, but they also enhance button operation
- Official Licensed Product
I’ve worn my Rangeman through mud, rain, and snow on countless hunting trips. It’s never let me down, and the sunrise/sunset data is super handy for timing your hunts. While it doesn’t have GPS, for the price point you won’t find a more durable and feature-packed watch.
Suunto Core All Black
Best Tactical Watch for Hikers
Key Features:
- Altimeter, barometer, compass
- Storm alarm
- Depth meter for snorkeling
- Sunrise/sunset times
- 12-month battery life
The Suunto Core has been a favorite among hikers and mountaineers for years, and for good reason. Its ABC sensors are highly accurate, and the storm alarm has saved me from getting caught in nasty weather more than once.
- Suunto Core: This classic outdoor sports watch is packed with intelligent features like a Storm Alarm, Altimeter, Barometer and compass to keep you informed of conditions while you hike, bike, or camp
- Essential for Adventure: This watch has dual times, date display, and alarm, plus predicted times for sunrise and sunset to help maximize your daylight hours and a depth meter accurate up to 30 feet
- Suunto Sports Watches: Versatile and durable, Suunto sports watches are great for running, swimming, cycling, gym workouts, hiking, and other outdoor sports; Whatever your needs, Suunto has a watch for you
What I love about the Core is its simplicity and reliability. There’s no touchscreen or GPS to drain the battery – just the essential features you need in the backcountry in a clean, easy-to-read package. The all-black tactical styling looks great too. At around $250, it’s a solid mid-range option.
Garmin Tactix Delta Solar
Best High-End Tactical Watch
Key Features:
- Built-in topographic maps
- Night vision compatibility
- Stealth mode
- Kill switch to wipe data
- Solar charging
If money is no object and you want the ultimate tactical timepiece, look no further than the Garmin Tactix Delta Solar. This watch was designed in collaboration with military personnel and has features you won’t find anywhere else.
The built-in topo maps are a game-changer for navigation, and the night vision mode works seamlessly with NV goggles. For those in sensitive operations, the kill switch provides peace of mind.
At nearly $1000, it’s definitely an investment. But if you require top-of-the-line capabilities and durability, the Tactix Delta delivers. I’ve used mine on some intense backcountry expeditions and it’s never skipped a beat.
Timex Expedition Field Chronograph
Best Affordable Analog Tactical Watch
Key Features:
- Classic military styling
- Chronograph functionality
- Indiglo night-light
- 100m water resistance
- Date window
Sometimes you just want a simple, reliable analog watch without all the bells and whistles. The Timex Expedition Field Chronograph fits the bill perfectly. It has that classic military field watch look that never goes out of style.
- Adjustable brown 20 millimeter genuine leather strap fits up to 8-inch wrist circumference. On natural lighting the Strap color might appear lighter that current image.Case Height: 12.5 mm
- Black dial with date window at 4 o’clock; Arabic numerals in increments of 5 up to 60
- 30-minute chronograph measures to 1/20th second
The chronograph is handy for timing events, and the Indiglo backlight is one of the best in the business for nighttime visibility. I like to wear this one when I want something a bit more low-profile than a bulky digital watch. At under $100, it’s a great entry-level tactical option.
Luminox Navy SEAL 3500 Series
Best Tactical Watch for Water Activities
Key Features:
- 200m water resistance
- Self-powered tritium illumination
- Lightweight carbon case
- Uni-directional rotating bezel
- 24-hour time markers
Luminox has been supplying watches to the Navy SEALs for years, so you know their gear can handle anything. The 3500 series is my go-to for any water-based activities, from kayaking to scuba diving.
The tritium illumination is incredibly bright and lasts for years without needing to be “charged” by light. The lightweight carbon case is virtually indestructible. I’ve banged this watch on rocks while whitewater rafting without a scratch.
At around $300-400 depending on the model, it’s a worthwhile investment for watersports enthusiasts or anyone who needs extreme durability.
Suunto Traverse Alpha
Best Tactical Watch for Hunters
Key Features:
- GPS/GLONASS navigation
- Shot detection
- Hunting/fishing specific features
- Flashlight mode
- Location-based moon phase calendar
As a hunter, the Suunto Traverse Alpha has become an indispensable part of my kit. The automatic shot detection helps me mark harvest locations, while the GPS tracking lets me easily find my way back to camp or map out new hunting spots.
The moon phase calendar is great for planning hunts, and the red backlight preserves your night vision. It’s clear Suunto designed this watch specifically with hunters and anglers in mind. If you spend a lot of time in the field, the Traverse Alpha is well worth the $400 price tag.
Marathon TSAR Milspec
Best Tactical Dive Watch
Key Features:
- Swiss-made automatic movement
- 300m water resistance
- Tritium gas tube illumination
- Military issued in Canada and USA
- Sapphire crystal
For those who want a classic automatic dive watch with tactical heritage, the Marathon TSAR is hard to beat. This is the same watch issued to military divers, so you know it can handle any conditions.
The tritium illumination is incredibly bright, and the 300m water resistance means it can handle serious depths. I love the clean, no-nonsense design. It’s built like a tank but still looks good enough to wear with a suit.
At around $900, it’s an investment piece. But for watch enthusiasts or those who need a bombproof mechanical timepiece, the quality is worth it.
Casio Pro Trek PRW-3510Y-1
Best Solar Atomic Tactical Watch
Key Features:
- Solar powered
- Atomic timekeeping
- Triple Sensor (altimeter, barometer, compass)
- Tide graph
- 100m water resistance
Casio’s Pro Trek line offers a lot of the same outdoor-focused features as the G-Shock, but in a slimmer, more subdued package. The PRW-3510Y-1 is my favorite for its combination of solar power and atomic timekeeping, ensuring you always have accurate time without ever needing a battery change.
The tide graph is great for coastal adventures, and the Triple Sensor provides reliable environmental data. It’s a versatile watch that works well for everything from business casual to backcountry expeditions. At around $250, it offers a ton of functionality for the price.
Garmin Fenix 6 Pro Solar
Best Multisport Tactical Watch
Key Features:
- Advanced training metrics
- Topographic maps
- Solar charging
- PacePro technology
- Pulse Ox sensor
Rounding out our list is the Garmin Fenix 6 Pro Solar, the ultimate multisport watch with tactical capabilities. This is the watch I wear when I’m training for hunting season or competing in adventure races.
The advanced training metrics help you optimize your workouts, while the built-in topographic maps are great for navigation. The solar charging extends the already impressive battery life even further.
While it’s overkill for casual users at $700+, for serious outdoor athletes who also want tactical features, the Fenix 6 Pro Solar is as good as it gets.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Tactical Watch
When shopping for a tactical watch, consider these key factors:
Durability: Look for watches with military-grade certifications or specific shock/water resistance ratings.
Battery Life: Solar-powered options are great for extended trips. Otherwise, look for at least 1-2 weeks of battery in smartwatch mode.
Navigation: Decide if you need built-in GPS or if a simple compass will suffice.
Sensors: Most tactical watches include altimeter, barometer, and compass (ABC) sensors. Decide which environmental data is most important to you.
Water Resistance: Even if you’re not a diver, 100m+ water resistance provides peace of mind for all conditions.
Nighttime Visibility: Luminous hands or a backlight are crucial for nighttime use.
Comfort: Make sure the size and strap material work for extended wear.
Price: Determine your budget and prioritize features accordingly. You can find solid options from $100 to $1000+.
Final Thoughts
A good tactical watch can be a lifesaver in the outdoors, providing vital navigation data and environmental information when you need it most. Whether you’re a casual hiker or a serious backcountry hunter, there’s an option on this list to fit your needs and budget.
Remember, the best tactical watch is the one you’ll actually wear and use. Consider your specific activities and requirements when making your choice. With one of these rugged timepieces on your wrist, you’ll be prepared for whatever adventure comes your way.
Stay safe out there, and happy hunting!