Most everyone I knew who didn't have a need for a mil scale compass voluntarily handed in the USGI lensatic compass and bought a Silva. USGI compasses are bulky and heavy. Losing one, it happens, I've lost gear in a swamp (kerplunk ... gone forever), can be problematic. I've been told that they can charge you several hundred dollars for replacement. Lose the Silva and Uncle Sugar doesn't say much. You are out $17.

Tip - If you use a Silva style compass around water it can pay to tie a bit of bright foam, sold in sporting-goods stores as fishing floats, to the lanyard so they float and are easier to find if dropped.

USGI lensatic compasses, and other gear that is too heavy to save with a small float, like a SAK, benefit from a 'dummy cord' that attaches the equipment to your belt.