How to use a compass?

[WokMaster1]

I've been trying to read up on it but hmmmm, let's just say I got lost

Is there a video tutorial that anyone can recommend? If not I'll sign up for an REI class.

[Cokebottle]

Compass type?
Just a basic wheel, determine the general direction you want to go, use the compass to orient yourself in that direction, select a landmark at high elevation (that won't be easily obscured by ridge lines or that will be easy to reacquire once you move out of a canyon), and start walking toward that landmark.

The thin units with graduated base plates are designed to be used with a map or a chart. Using a good map/chart, landmarks, and a good compass, you can pinpoint your current position and determine the exact heading you want (as opposed to "that general direction).

The 2nd type that is useful in both ways and also aids in taking a bearing on landmarks is the type with a slot in the cover with a wire in it, and a flip-up "rear sight".

[ElvenSoul]

To really find your way around

Get one of these

http://www.countycomm.com/navdate.html

make sure they send you the compass..not that ya need it

[paul0660]

Follow it, you end up in Ontario.

[wjc]

Take the REI course. They'll show you how to use the skills in practice.

[Tanner68]

Can your already read a USGS topo? What are your goals and objectives? For what purpose do you want to use the compass?

[AragornElessar86]

http://www.compassdude.com/compass-reading.shtml

Scroll down to the part where it says "two types of compasses". If your compass doesn't have a dial that can be turned like the one in the pictures, just turn your whole compass insted.

[WokMaster1]

Purpose is general knowledge for hiking, canoeing, etc.

I have the Burnton Classic & also a couple of http://www.rei.com/product/792829/br...nsatic-compass

Just got those years ago for my BOB & SHTF bag. Was checking through them the other day & I realized I need to learn how to use them.

[Brd_Hntr]

Take a look at these:

http://egsc.usgs.gov/isb/pubs/factsheets/fs03501.html

http://www.enlisted.info/field-manuals/fm-21-26-map-reading-and-land-navigation.shtml

http://www.maptools.com/UsingUTM/

There was a book 'Land Navigation for the California Hunter' which was very short and to the point. I don't know if it still available.

[weinerd]

I used to do this when I was in high school:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orienteering

[11HE9]

I learned land navigation in the Army...


I would recommend taking a orienteering class. When you start converting GM angles and figure pace counts, it can get a little confusing. Once you have the basics down, you can have a lot of fun with it. I want to set up a land navigation "easter egg hunt" for my kids

[REPR]

I learned land navigation in the Army...


I would recommend taking a orienteering class. When you start converting GM angles and figure pace counts, it can get a little confusing. Once you have the basics down, you can have a lot of fun with it. I want to set up a land navigation "easter egg hunt" for my kids

Got to love finding barely marked posts in the woods

I also second the idea of an orienteering course. Most places even small communities usually have an orienteering club. Like around here you can show up at the monthly SAR meeting at the airport shack and learn a bit. In addition you can find some like minded people or stumble into an orienteering course just because you've shown interest. Best thing to do is find someone who is interested in teaching you the craft.

[pilote]

i found it fairly easy teaching myself the basics of map and compass...i know there is much more detail to land navigation and i would do much more reading on it if i desired to get expert on it...

if you can't "do it yourself". definitely consider one of those REI classes or similar...

[jmsenk]

I would say take a course. I am a visual learner, and can pick up most things by reading about them, but I didn't really get comfortable with Land Nav until I was actually out doing it. Also, it is a perishable skill. I havn't done a Land Nav course since my EIB (Expert Infantry Badge) back in 2009, and probably aught to get back into orienteering or SAR type stuff.

[Maddog5150]

Look up the army land nav power point. Remember there are 3 norths and learn how to compensating for them. True north, grid north and magnetic north.