Field MS Silva Compass

The Silva Field Compass is an excellent entry-level baseplate compass, specifically designed for beginners, students and anyone looking to develop their navigation skills in the outdoors. This reliable and user-friendly compass is a fundamental tool for hiking, bushwalking, orienteering, or even just exploring local parks and trails. Its straightforward design and clear markings make it easy to understand and operate, even for those new to compass use.

Why the Silva Field Compass is helpful:

• Ideal for Learning: Features like clear degree graduations and map-measuring scales simplify the process of learning basic navigation.
• Accurate Readings: The sapphire jewel bearing ensures the compass needle moves freely and provides precise readings, crucial for accurate direction finding.
• Easy Map Work: Integrated map measuring scales (millimetres, 1:50,000, and 1:25,000) allow for quick and easy distance calculations and route planning directly on your map.
• Comfortable to Use: The soft, easy-grip Dryflex bezel and rounded base plate enhance comfort during prolonged use and provide a secure hold.
• Designed for Australia: The MS model is specifically calibrated for the Southern Hemisphere, ensuring accurate readings for users in Australia and New Zealand.
• Durable & Reliable: Built to withstand outdoor conditions, it's waterproof and shockproof, making it a dependable companion on your adventures.
• Enhanced Safety: The detachable safety-release lanyard prevents accidental loss and ensures the compass is always at hand when needed.
• Clear Visibility: New graphics and colours, along with patented red/black orienting lines, offer improved distinctness and readability, even in varying light conditions.

Things to consider when purchasing the Silva Field Compass:

• Practice is Key: While user-friendly, mastering navigation still requires practice. Regularly use the compass with a map to build your skills and confidence.
• Map Compatibility: Ensure your maps are at scales compatible with the compass (1:50,000 and 1:25,000) for optimal use of the integrated scales.
• Magnetic Interference: Be aware of potential magnetic interference from electronic devices (phones, GPS units), metal objects or power lines, which can affect compass accuracy.
• Declination Understanding: Familiarise yourself with magnetic declination and how to adjust for it using the declination scale inside the capsule for highly accurate navigation, especially when relying on true north.
• Storage: Store the compass away from strong magnets to prevent demagnetisation of the needle over time.