A compass is a tool that has been in use for centuries. This very simplistic device points us in the right direction by detecting the magnetic field of the earth and orienting itself properly. From this, you can find out the proper direction that you should be heading. This device has proven itself time and again in the hands of travellers who navigates thousands of miles with just the aid of a compass and a map.

Invented in China before the 2^nd century, the compass was created as a tool in finding the proper orientation of things in the immediate surroundings. This practice, called Feng Shui, is still alive and practiced widely in the world today, even in the western world. Its navigational use was not discovered until the 11^th century and has been widely used since then. Today, there are many types of compasses available. Traditional models are made out of a magnetic needle that is encased in a fluid to allow the needle to move freely. Newer models that use a gyrocompass instead of the earth’s magnetic field can point to the earth’s true north instead of the magnetic north. They are also more accurate as they are not affected by other magnetic sources or electrical circuits. Despite these advantages, older models still exist because of their durability and maintenance-free nature.

Today, most compasses that are used for navigation are already embedded in vehicles while hand held devices are mostly for sporting events and hobbyists. Events like orienteering matches teams against each other in navigating a specific terrain with the use of a compass and a map. Soldiers also carry a compass and a map in case they get separated in the middle of combat.

The Silva company of Sweden, which has been a leading manufacturer of outdoor gear since 1928 also provides a line of compasses for a multitude of purposes. Silva Sweden is a well known supplier of compasses to the armed forces of many countries, including the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Denmark, and of course Sweden. They are providing a wide range of compasses from the simple Expedition 3 and 4 series to the more complex Expedition 54 that includes sophisticated sighting mechanisms. All compasses from the Silva company is equipped with luminous lighting that can glow for some time while other compasses are equipped with battery powered light that makes them ideal for night time use. Depending on your needs, the Silva company can provide you with the right tool that is booth durable and reliable to get you where you want to go.