Covert situations often call for easily concealable, dependable low-fi alternatives—and in
the case of a compass, a simple pair of magnets fits the bill. An operative may have been
stripped of his GPS device upon capture or may be working in a context in which the use
of a handheld GPS system would attract too much notice. A concealable compass ensures
that the Nomad is always able to effectively navigate through unknown territory, no
matter how remote.
Though microcompasses may be found at any adventure store in the developed world,
they may not be available elsewhere. Improvised compasses, on the other hand, are easy to
make using resources readily available in most countries. The tool works by harnessing the
power of rare-earth magnets, the baseline mechanism used to power compasses. Tuned to
the dial of the earth’s magnetic field, when connected and allowed to dangle from a length
of thread, the rods become a natural compass; one points south, the other north.
Because the purchase of rare-earth magnets can arouse suspicion, it is advisable to seek
out less alerting products such as refrigerator magnets, whiteboard magnets, or magnetic
handbag closures, always in pairs. Any improvisations must be tested thoroughly, lest the
Nomad be confronted with an inaccurate improvised tool mid-escape.
