Magnetic Pull

A brass pocket compass lay open on the cedar slats, its glass face catching the afternoon glare. I stepped up to the rim to check the floating needle. It pointed true north, steady across the black dial markings. When I lowered my rifle barrel near the glass, the needle jumped. It swung several degrees toward the steel barrel pin before locking in place. I shifted the muzzle two inches back; the needle swung clean and settled true once more. Magnetic interference confirmed. I noted the safe clearance distance, secured my sling, and stepped clear of the casing.