Map, Compass & GPS

Map, Compass & GPS
Wild flowers along Fall Creek on the way to the Green Lakes - Oregon

Thursday, January 14, 2016

Bubble in My Compass


Occasionally a bubble will become present inside the compass dial assembly.  Small bubbles the size of an air rifles’ “bb” will general not be a problem in the field.

Small bubbles generally develop into bigger bubbles. 




I visited the Silva website and found the following:

“We intend that our compasses are free of bubbles; however, if a small bubble forms in the liquid-filled capsule, it has no influence on the accuracy of the compass. Its appearance and disappearance are due to changes in temperature and atmospheric pressure. If a bubble larger than 1/4" in diameter appears, it is probably the result of a leaking capsule, usually caused by some form of shock damage, and the capsule will have to be replaced. In that case, just call our customer satisfaction department for a return authorization number and shipping address. From the U.S.A, call 1-800-572-8822 between 8 am-6 pm, eastern time. From Canada, call 1-800-263-6390.”

It is nice that a manufacturer of outdoor gear takes some responsibility.  Expect similar support from Brunton and Suunto.

If you have a cheap compass purchased at WalMart…just buy a new compass such as the


Silva Ranger on the Suunto M2.

If a liquid filled compass housing develops a bubble in a compass place it in a plastic sandwich bag.  Don't take it back to the field, it will become a mess.

  



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