IMPORTANT: Caring for your compass

The compass is made of steel. It is a heavy-duty tool that needs care to ensure it doesn’t rust, as with all steel tools.
All liability and responsibility lies with the customer to keep their compass in good condition to ensure it lasts!

With proper care, your compass could last you a lifetime.
Here are some care tips:

1. Use your compass frequently: When you use your compass regularly, you don’t give it the opportunity to sit and collect dust or moisture, both of which can cause significant rusting.

2. Keep your compass clean:  Wipe down your compass after each use and keep in a safe, clean, dry place.

3. Control Humidity and Reduce Moisture: Controlling moisture and humidity is probably the single most important thing you can do to protect your steel compass. You may want to store your compass in an area with good airflow, or a fan or dehumidifier. You can also place silica gel packs where you store your compass and tools.

4. Apply a protective coating: A thin layer of non-oxidizing oil (such as mineral oil) is a good way to prevent rust on your steel compass. Oils do attract dust, however, so you will still have to keep up with tool maintenance (the other 3 tips) even after applying a protective oil coating. If the steel becomes stiff, apply oil to lubricate the metal.