Gear

Some of the degree markings had disappeared from the bezel of my Silva type 4 compass. Contacted Silva and they suggested return to retailer. Couldn't remember where I bought it or when, but being of a persistent nature I dug out the original receipt and it was a shade ove 5 years ago - Silva guarantee is 5 years!

Thanks to Above & Beyond who contacted Silva on my behalf and Silva for relaxing their 5 year limit I received new replacement compass this morning.

Silva is a great brand with an excellent reputation.

I have a Silva type 4/54 compass but I only carry it as a spare because I still prefer my old trusty Sunto MC-1 (mainly because od the build in declination).

 Scandinavian products in general are very good as are the companies that produce them. 

There is a manufacturer in the USA making compasses badged as Silva; this is not the same comapany as the Swedish firm (the Swedish firm lost a legal battle of their name apparently).  Maybe you have bought one of these.

SimonDawes wrote (see)

There is a manufacturer in the USA making compasses badged as Silva; this is not the same comapany as the Swedish firm (the Swedish firm lost a legal battle of their name apparently).  Maybe you have bought one of these.

They where both brought from different retailers one of which i sure was cotswold so its unlikely. The markings are only going round the bezels not the baseplate and it has taken 2 to 3 years of use for them to rub off enough to become an issue. 

Dont get me wrong though for the money they are very good compasses but i wouldnt want to spend on a expedition 54 if the same thing occured after a few years of use.