I've been carrying the compass on the left for about 5 years now in the pocket of my turkey vest. Three years ago it somehow switched its poles and really threw me for a loop on a long walk back in after dark. Luckily I knew pretty much where I was and realized the error before it became too much of a problem. Since then I always make it a point to verify its still pointing opposite before heading out in a new area where I might actually need it. I asked for a new compass for Xmas this year (the one on the right).Along with a whistle, I'll carry one of these with me on every hunt this year. I've always had a good sense of direction, but after getting turned around in some woods for about an hour earlier this spring, I've decided a compass is a must.
My phone wasnt accurate enough for me to really tell where I was going, and a quick compass check i would have been out in 5 minutes.