How to use a map and compass
Long before GPS, people were using maps and compasses to find their way around. You may be surprised at what you can do with these two important tools.
Contents |
Terms
Map
When we talk about a map in this article, we are generally referring to a good topographical map such as what can be found at Topozone.com or Mytopo.com. Road and street maps are pretty much worthless out in the woods. Topo maps have all sorts of information on them like elevation, water, land types, land marks, etc. They also have degree or utm grids or hashmarks on them so you can actually compare where you are on the map to your gps coordinates (or find your gps coordinates if you know where you are on the map).
Compass
For purposes of this article, a compass means a mapping style compass. Usually they have a clear base and magnet chamber and straight edges with which to take bearings.
Techniques
Following a Bearing
Generally, your compass will have two needles built into it:
- One that you can rotate and set to a specific position (the bearing needle)
- One that rotates by itself acording to the earth's magnetic field. (the magnetic needle)
When you know the direction that you want to travel, point your compass in that direction, and then align your bearing needle with the magnetic needle. Sight through your compass at a landmark in the distance that you can walk to. Once you have identified your landmark, walk to it. When you get there, sight through your compass again, making sure to hold it so that the magnetic needle lines up with the bearing needle. Choose another landmark in the distance that your compass is pointing to
Aligning your map and compass
Bloo
Determining your location on a map
Yes, it can be done without a GPS
Figure distance
Blee
