Question 1

Ok, i'm confused, product description, states, ""tritum illuminated for use in total darkness with phosphoric dial.""  what goes on, ??

Accepted Answer

There are 2 models of this compass:  One with Tritium, one with a phosphorescent material. 
Tritium is self-illuminating (because it's mildly radioactive) but it lasts only 10 to 12 years. It's also expensive.
The phosphorescent paint version is less expensive, and if you illuminate it several seconds with a flashlight, it will shine for several minutes.
Now if you are avoiding enemy combatants, or are a military purist,  go Tritium. Otherwise the phosphorescent model will work just fine.
As for the one review about "charging it in the sun all day", I know of no phosphorescent compound that can retain illumination long term. If it were to "only glow for an hour", I'd be very happy!

Question 2

Is this a legitimate tritium compass, or not?  The description says that it is, but many of the reviews say that it is not.

Accepted Answer

Oddly enough the U.S. Army has both models in the supply chain. This IS NOT the tritium model.  But is a solid and reliable type of compass from my experience.

Question 3

Is this compass waterproof? Is it up-to-grade with the compasses used by the military?

Accepted Answer

The camenga is the official US soldiers compass.
It is waterproof but if pressure is too high water might come into the compass capsule. It is designed to be used outdoors, not under water.
If you want an underwater compass, you must use one designed for this.

Camenga is the supplier of the US army for compasses. This is the real deal.

Question 4

Does this incorporate a lens such that I can focus simultaneously on the distant object and the compass card?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there is a magnifying lens that you can adjust to focus on the compass ring

ASIN	B000E90E44
Additional Features	Waterproof, Shakeproof (Shockproof)
Best Sellers Rank	#50,966 in Sports & Outdoors ( See Top 100 in Sports & Outdoors ) #56 in Compasses (Sports & Outdoors)
Brand Name	Cammenga
Customer Reviews	4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars (760)
Item Weight	7.36 ounces
Manufacturer	Cammenga
Manufacturer Part Number	Model 27
Map Scale	1:50000
Material Type	Aluminum
Model Number	Model 27
Unit Count	1 Count

Cammenga Military Grade Phosphorescent Lensatic Compass, Made in USA | Military compass, waterproof, sandproof and shockproof, accurate tactical navigation, handheld hiking and survival compass

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