Regarding the bubbles, I've never had a liquid filled compass that didn't have or get bubbles over time. They don't affect the accuracy of the instrument in any way. Usually formed by elevation and temperature changes. At the worst, they're might be aesthetically displeasing, but they don't hurt a thing. https://www.backpacker.com/gear/compass-bubbles
Retired medical technologist and engineer
REI member since 1978
Superusers do not speak on behalf of REI and may have received
one or more gifts or other benefits from the co-op.
