Compass or no compass?

TAH

TAH

Joined
Jul 3, 2001
Messages
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What are your thoughts (pros & cons) on permanently installing a back-up compass in the buttcap of a One Piece knife versus just storing a compass in the handle?

Personally, I can think of more reasons not to install one, but I might be missing something.

1) The compass could be damaged from impact if the buttcap is used for pounding or the knife is used for chopping.
2) If you needed to use the compass continuously, it would be a hassle to remove and replace the buttcap. Not replacing it could increase the risk losing any contents. If the compass is stored in the handle, it could be taken out for convenience.
3) It could be difficult to replace a damaged compass if it has been permanently installed with epoxy.
 
con: it's there permanently
and I agree with all your points. not worth it in my opinion
 
why not figure out what threads are used on the butt cap and make a replacement butt cap with a compass on it?
 
tf8s said:
why not figure out what threads are used on the butt cap and make a replacement butt cap with a compass on it?
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I think that's the smartest way to go. There are some people on the forums that could probably mill one for you.

To put one in the original buttcap would be a mistake in my opinion for all of the cons that you listed. Number 1 being the biggest issue. I don't like to use the butt of my knives as a hammer if I can help it for a number of reasons but there have been times when it was the best/easiest option. That is a function that i think is primary to a survival/woods knife. I'd much rather carry a compass and a light backup compass then lose that.
 
TLR said:
I think that's the smartest way to go. There are some people on the forums that could probably mill one for you.

To put one in the original buttcap would be a mistake in my opinion for all of the cons that you listed. Number 1 being the biggest issue. I don't like to use the butt of my knives as a hammer if I can help it for a number of reasons but there have been times when it was the best/easiest option. That is a function that i think is primary to a survival/woods knife. I'd much rather carry a compass and a light backup compass then lose that.
Click to expand...

if you put a layer of g10 or plexiglass over the actual compass, it might be able to withstand an impact. or you could do that and have a little metal cap that can easily pop over the end of the compass, and then you could definitely withstand an impact.
 
tf8s said:
if you put a layer of g10 or plexiglass over the actual compass, it might be able to withstand an impact. or you could do that and have a little metal cap that can easily pop over the end of the compass, and then you could definitely withstand an impact.
Click to expand...

It might withstand an accidental impact but you couldn't pound a stick in the ground to help with an improvised shelter or anything similar. Cap over the compass is an interesting idea. You could almost have the outside of the butt threaded so that you could screw another protective cap over the compass. Kind of a cap on cap thing.
 
TLR said:
It might withstand an accidental impact but you couldn't pound a stick in the ground to help with an improvised shelter or anything similar. Cap over the compass is an interesting idea. You could almost have the outside of the butt threaded so that you could screw another protective cap over the compass. Kind of a cap on cap thing.
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what if he puts threads on the outside of the compass cap so that the original butt cap can be screwed into it and protect the compass
 
Why not just carry the compass loosely in the handle, with all the other necessities?

Just because it can fit in the butt doesn't mean it oughta.
 
I carry a compass in the but of my Mtnr 2, I just use an O-ring to keep it in and have not had any problems with it so far.

I also never use it :p so make of that what you will. If I do want to check my bearings on a hike I tend to use my wrist watch.
 
If you're sitting still long enough, you can always whittle a stake with that knife and use one of the stick methods...
 
kmm said:
Dosent the all-metal buttcap affect the compas accuracy, with the needle being magnetic and all that?
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The but cap is made of aluminium so as long as it's separated from the knife when you actually read the compass there will be no problems.

I have a few different mini compasses and the brunton or "marbles brass" oil filled and "NATO" gas filled ones are the best IMO. I still find using my watch is a better way to quickly find a nort/south line though. Once you get used to how it works it's just a case of looking at your watch. (as long as the sun is visible).
 
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I've always heard that it's bad to store kit in your knife handle at all.
If you lose your knife, you lose your kit.
 
jfn said:
I've always heard that it's bad to store kit in your knife handle at all.
If you lose your knife, you lose your kit.
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I personally don't keep my sleepingbag, cooking stuff or extra clothes in my knife handle but I can see your point. :p

I usually just keep a few extras in my OPK handle, stuff for fire lighting, a bit fishing kit, a caramic rod or bits and pieces like that.
 
tf8s said:
what if he puts threads on the outside of the compass cap so that the original butt cap can be screwed into it and protect the compass
Click to expand...

I might be wrong, but I don't think a buttcap could be made where the compass wouldn't feel the impact or shock of pounding.

missin_hobo said:
Why not just carry the compass loosely in the handle, with all the other necessities?
Click to expand...

I think this is the best way to go. Compass could easily be removed for pounding or chopping.

Haze said:
I carry a compass in the but of my Mtnr 2, I just use an O-ring to keep it in and have not had any problems with it so far.
Click to expand...

This is the method that I use if I do install a compass.

CT951 said:
What type of mini compass are you guys using? All the mini compass's that's I've used or seen really suck in terms of accuracy.
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This one fits the Mtn. 2 buttcap with just enough room to put a thin O-ring around it.

Website%20Photo%20Compass%2014mm%20Grade%20AA%20891AA%202.jpg


http://www.suncompany.net/Template.php?-p=ProductDetail&-d=SUN+Products+Output&-r=84.55

Haze said:
I usually just keep a few extras in my OPK handle, stuff for fire lighting...
Click to expand...

Same here. :thumbup:
 
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