Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice example of the U.S. M1938 Lensatic Compass, a pattern developed and adopted at the beginning of WWII. The compass is clearly maker-marked:

W. & L. E. GURLEY
TROY, N. Y., U.S.A.

The compass displays honest age and evidence of extensive use, making it a well-carried piece of field equipment. Although the compass card is bent and therefore should not be considered accurate or reliable for navigation, the instrument remains an appealing and authentic example of U.S. Army WWII field equipment. It is particularly well suited for display, study, or inclusion in a collection of original wartime navigation and field gear.

This is a particularly desirable W. & L. E. Gurley variation. In contrast to the standard examples produced by the Superior Magneto Corporation, this specific Gurley variation features a specialized needle-lift mechanism. This feature was used in the past to brake the compass card and reduce its oscillation, allowing the card to settle more quickly when taking a bearing.

The compass retains its distinctive construction, original maker markings, and the uncommon mechanical features characteristic of Gurley production. It is accompanied by its typical carrying pouch, completing its display appeal.

This M1938 Lensatic Compass By W. & L. E. Gurley is a particularly interesting and uncommon example of WWII U.S. military equipment, especially for collectors interested in manufacturing variations.