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
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.
