What would be the best way to protect my compass from becoming de-magnitized while stored? How strong does a magnetic field need to be to disorient the needle? It is a Brunton Classic Map Compass, and I can't wait to use it when hiking along mapped trails. Chances are I'll need to carry it around lots of metal tools, but will a simple case protect it from de-magnitization? I'm trying to learn how to use a compass and I'm worried about screwing with its magnetic sensitivity. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

I don't think you should have a problem with the compass around general metal.

Don't go putting a magnet on it.

I carried one for years around all metal with no problem.

Don't use it with metal within say 6-8 inches for accurate readings.

Just be concerned about breakage is my advice.

Mike

That's right,

There's basically two surefire ways to destroy a permanent magnet. You can cook it with excessive heat (say, over 200 degrees F), or you can beat on it physically (like with a hammer). Since either would destroy the casing before you even got to the magnet inside, normal care considerations for the compass are all you need.

Metal objects brought into the vacinity of a magnet will cause it to deflect towards the metal, but it doesn't do permanent damage. Remove the metal tool, and the compass will go back to pointing at magnetic north... no problem as long as you're aware of it (like dont try to take a reading while you're holding a chunk of iron in your hand).

Since I can say way more about this than probably anyone wants to hear, I'll shut up now. <img src="images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" /> But I'll try to answer any additional questions.

Also... be aware that some of the larger "sports" watches can throw off your reading as can some eyeglasses while shooting an azimuth (if you have a military style compass and put your face right down on it.)

Thanks for the help, guys. <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />