Posted by Jon D on October 10, 2001 at 14:51:05:
In Reply to: If you want it cheap... posted by Maciek on October 10, 2001 at 12:10:23:
I'll share my modification for the cheapest and, IMO, the best wrist-mounted dive compass. I guess it could also be glued/screwed to a slate or a console.
Buy a oil-filled Silva-style hiking compass from REI, Sport Chalet, etc. ($7-$12). Cut the rectangular plastic it's mounted on down to a square, drill holes in each corner and make a wrist strap out of thin bungy cord.
These compasses have several advantages.
1. Super low profile doesn't create drag, catch kelp, snag in lobster holes etc.
2. Fluid-filled compass is impervious to pressure changes. Bezel doesn't seem to be susceptible to corrosion or clogging with sand either.
3. Needle is much less prone to "hanging up" when not perfectly level.
4. In extreme low-vis, you can slip it onto the back of your hand to keep it in front of your eyes and still have both hands free.
5. It's so cheap, it's almost disposable.
Don't tell Silva -- they'll start marketing them as dive compasses and charge $75.