As well as being issued the 'standard' escape compass the Americans also developed and made their own escape compasses. An example is shown here
As well as being issued the 'standard' escape compass the Americans also developed and made their own escape compasses. An example is shown here
The standard compass in a protective plastic/rubber case. These were developed later in the war for the South East Asia Theatre. They come in this yellow colour or black and usually have a piece of string or ribbon so that it can be wore around the neck. Allegedly they could be swallowed, but it looks pretty big to me!
The razor blade compass. Only one blade in every packet was magnatized (this one is, although it doesn't work very well). It was designed to be used in the same way as the swinger compass. The clippings from the blade centres could also be used.
'Commercial compasses' - All of these compasses are period or pre-war, they are of a type that may have been issued early in the war prior to the introduction of the types made by MI9 or compasses that were available to purchase privately and carried for escape and evasion purposes.
A compass with a screw thread. Private purchase 'survival' kits were available before and during the war for pilots. Many examples had a water bottle which had a compass set into the lid.
A private purchase cufflink compass
A compass set into an unknown item.
A USAAF waterproof match container with compass set into the lid. It contains the original matches.
A private purchase Airman's first aid kit
Especially towards the latter part of the war when a downed Airman could make his way back to Allied lines, Pilots and Aircrew would carry side arms to assist them in evading capture. This Squadron Leader carries a .38 Enfield No.2 Mk1* 'tankers' revolver. The revolver was designed with the spur on the hammer removed so that it was less likely to snag in the confines of an armoured vehicle or aircraft. The belt and holster are both A.M. (Air ministry) marked and dated 1941.
Similar Threads
Bookmarks