1. Introduction
The SVBONY M2 Professional Military Compass is a lightweight and durable transit instrument designed for precision navigation and surveying tasks. It is suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities and professional applications, including geology, surveying, mining engineering, civil engineering, environmental engineering, and forestry. This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper use and maintenance of your M2 Compass.
Key features include:
- Direct-read compass capsule with 1-degree resolution and 0.5-degree accuracy.
- Dry compass capsule with quick dampening needle and needle-lock for transit protection.
- Gear-driven adjustable declination for simple compensated bearings.
- Vertical angle clinometer scale with 1-degree increments and a 90-degree range.
- Integrated compass bubble level and clinometer level.
- Sighting mirror with lubber line and sighting hole.
- Adjustable sighting points.
- Shockproof and Waterproof/Water-Resistant design.
2. Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the various components of your SVBONY M2 Compass:
3. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | SVBONY |
| Material | Plastic, Glass |
| Dial Diameter | 65mm |
| Length | 80mm |
| Height | 32mm |
| Width | 70mm |
| Color | Black, Army Green |
| Weight | 106g / 3.7oz |
| Waterproof / Water-Resistant | Yes |
| Shockproof | Yes |
| Luminous Display | Yes (Fluorescent dial) |
| Carrying Mode | Handheld Type |
4. Setup
- Unpacking: Carefully remove the compass from its packaging. Ensure all components, including the carrying bag and user manual, are present.
- Opening the Compass: Gently open the compass cover. The cover is hinged and designed to protect the dial and mirror.
- Releasing the Needle-Lock: The compass features a needle-lock mechanism to secure the needle during transit. Ensure the needle is free to move before use.
- Adjusting Declination (if necessary): If you are in an area with significant magnetic declination, you may need to adjust the compass to compensate. Use the 'Cricle Adjusting Screw' (Figure 2.2) or the 'magnetic declination regulator' (Figure 2.3) to set the local declination. Refer to local maps or resources for the correct declination value.
- Leveling: For accurate readings, the compass must be level. Use the integrated plate level and circular bubble (Figure 2.2) to ensure the compass is perfectly horizontal before taking a bearing.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Taking a Bearing
- Hold Level: Hold the compass firmly and level, ensuring the plate level and circular bubble indicate a horizontal position.
- Orient Yourself: Point the front of the compass (where the long diopter is located) towards your desired direction or object.
- Sight Through: Use the sighting mirror, lubber line, and sighting hole to align your target with the adjustable sighting points.
- Read the Bearing: Once aligned and level, read the bearing indicated by the needle on the horizontal circle. The clear dial scale (Figure 5.1) ensures easy reading.
5.2 Using the Vertical Angle Clinometer
The vertical angle clinometer is used to measure angles of elevation or depression.
- Orient the Compass: Hold the compass vertically, aligning the side with the vertical scale towards the object you wish to measure.
- Level the Clinometer: Use the clinometer level to ensure the compass is vertically aligned.
- Read the Angle: The clinometer scale will indicate the vertical angle in degrees.
5.3 Using the Fluorescent Dial
The compass features a fluorescent dial for visibility in low-light conditions. Expose the dial to light before use in the dark to charge its luminescence.
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Wipe the compass with a soft, damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could scratch the lens or casing.
- Storage: When not in use, engage the needle-lock to protect the compass assembly. Store the compass in its provided carrying bag (Figure 6.1) in a cool, dry place away from strong magnetic fields.
- Water Exposure: While the compass is waterproof/water-resistant, prolonged submersion or exposure to extreme conditions should be avoided to ensure longevity. Dry thoroughly after exposure to moisture.
- Impact Protection: The compass is shockproof, but severe impacts can still cause damage. Handle with care.
7. Troubleshooting
- Inaccurate Readings:
- Ensure the compass is perfectly level using the bubble levels.
- Check for nearby magnetic interference (e.g., metal objects, electronic devices, power lines). Move to an open area if interference is suspected.
- Verify that the magnetic declination is correctly set for your location.
- Needle Sticking/Slow Movement:
- Ensure the needle-lock is disengaged.
- Tap the compass gently to free the needle.
- Check for any debris inside the capsule (though this is rare for sealed units).
- Clinometer Inaccuracy:
- Ensure the compass is held perfectly vertical when using the clinometer.
8. User Tips
- Practice using your compass in a familiar area before relying on it in unfamiliar or critical situations.
- Always carry a reliable map in conjunction with your compass.
- When taking a bearing, take multiple readings and average them for increased accuracy.
- Keep the compass away from magnets, speakers, and other electronic devices that can affect its accuracy.
9. Warranty and Support
SVBONY stands behind the quality of its products. The M2 Compass comes with the following:
- 7-Day Return Policy: Enjoy 7 days to return the product if there are any quality problems.
- Lifetime Warranty: All SVBONY products have a lifetime warranty. This includes a 1-year free replacement and lifetime warranty service. (Note: Shipping costs for warranty service may be borne by the buyer).
- Customer Support: For any inquiries or support needs, please contact SVBONY customer service. All emails will be answered within 24 hours.
