$395
WWII-era British military commando Wrist Compass This is a WWII-era British military wrist compass (officially designated “Compass, Survival, Wrist Type,” Air Ministry Ref. No. 6B/2593), issued primarily to RAF aircrew (pilots and navigators) as part of escape and evasion/survival kits, but also widely used by British airborne forces, paratroopers, SAS, SOE, and commandos.
Key Features
• Blackened metal case (brass or steel) with a hinged hunter-style lid containing a mirror (for signaling).
• Dry-card design (non-liquid/air-damped compass card – no fluid visible, with a floating card that settles more slowly than liquid-filled types). The central thumb screw rotates the bezel for sighting/bearings.
• Luminous markings (originally radium paint for night visibility).
• Long khaki herringbone twill webbing strap (designed to wear over flying suits, sleeves, thigh, or ankle).
• Back markings: REF No. 6B/2593 (or similar worn variant like N968/2593), SER No. in “B/” format (B often denoting manufacturer Francis Barker & Son). Close-up photo clearly shows the dry floating card (white/silver with black markings, no damping fluid or bubbles), distinguishing it from the more common liquid-filled variants of the same model.
These were produced from the early 1940s through the post-war period (your serial/year code suggests 1950s–1960s production). Dry versions are authentic but less frequently encountered intact, as many liquid ones leaked over time.
Can can ship anywhere,
Please see my other ads for rare and collectable military items
categories:Camping and Survival GearSporting Goods
1633 impressions
164 views
Chestermere, AB4 days ago
%20Rimfire.jpg)
