Learning Map & Compass

(The Basics)

To learn the Map & Compass, using an orienteering compass, there are several basic operations and procedures one must do to become accomplished at this operation. Most often, it is taught, when reading books on the subject, obtuse, convoluted, and complicated to grasp, when, in actuality, it can be learned quick and easy.

We recommend the orienteering type of compass because they are easier to use and quite accurate. The basic learning curve and teaching modalities are as follows:

I.	The first thing is to learn the parts of the Orienteering Compass and the elements of the bezel, also called the Housing, Capsule, Rose, or Dial.

II.	The second thing is to learn how to use the Orienteering Compass including how to hold it, taking and reading a bearing, setting the dial, and other functions that are necessary when trekking (to make one's way arduously). This takes only thirty minutes or so. It's fun, it's educational, and it may save your life someday. This is a skill you want to know and use.

III.	Then know and learn how to Orient the Map such that the true north of the map and magnetic north are one. This involves the use of magnetic declination.

IV.	The next thing is to learn how to use the compass without a map. This entails shooting a landmark (taking a compass bearing) and navigating to it and back to your original position. This may incorporate off shooting.

V.	Then, what is magnetic declination and how to apply magnetic declination. Given in VI.

VI.	Sixth, learning how to use the Map & Compass/Compass and Map Together applying Magnetic Declination

• Map To Field (Ground)

True Bearing (True North) To Magnetic Bearing

1. Declination E (DE)—Subtract

2. Declination W (DW)—Add

• Ground (Field) To Map

Magnetic Bearing To True Bearing (True North)

1. Declination E (DE)—Add

2. Declination W (DW)—Subtract

VII.	Finally, to become proficient at Map & Compass, learn:

1.	Triangulation, some call it resection, and,

2.	Line position (another form of simple triangulation).