A compass is a basic yet essential tool for anyone who loves the outdoors, from hikers and campers to backpackers and geocachers. Its primary purpose is to indicate the four cardinal directions—the north, south, east, and west—helping users navigate through landscapes, even with limited visibility due to weather conditions. This guide will walk you through the fundamentals of using a regular compass, ensuring you're always pointed in the right direction.
Before we delve into the mechanics of a compass, let's understand its build. A regular compass consists of a magnetized needle that aligns with the Earth's magnetic field, a baseplate with markings, a rotating bezel, and a housing to protect and stabilize the needle. Understanding these components will help you make the most of your compass.
Understanding a Compass
Debunking the myth, a compass isn't tied to any single direction. It's simple: the red end of the needle always points north. However, it's essential to note that compasses might vary slightly from true north, so it's crucial to correct for this magnetic declination, which we'll discuss later.
The baseplate is the stable, clear, plastic part beneath the magnetized needle. It's etched with lines and scales that aid in determining your position and navigating. The most critical component of the baseplate is the ' Richtung ' or forward arrow, which points in the direction the compass is aimed.
Compass Needle & Degrees
The compass needle is a straightforward device. The north end is colored red and the south end is colored white, with some dials marked in degrees. These degrees are crucial in measurements, with every degree representing 1/360th of a full circle. Thus, a 90-degree turn is a quarter-turn or a right turn.
Most compasses have 360-degree dials, but not all markings are equally spaced. Major lines are marked every 10 degrees (or 30 degrees on globes), and minor lines every 5 degrees or 1 degree. These markings are vital in navigating on a map or using a topographic map to follow a route.
Accounting for Declination
As mentioned previously, a critical aspect of using a compass is understanding and accounting for magnetic declination. The Earth's magnetic field doesn't align with its geographical axis. Therefore, the magnetic north pole, where the compass needle points, isn’t exactly at the geographic North Pole. In simple terms, it means that if you follow a compass for a very long distance, you'll end up slightly east or west of your intended destination.
To account for this, you must adjust your compass readings to 'true north.' The adjustment depends on your location—it varies significantly across the globe, so consult a local map oronline resources for the exact value. Whether you add or subtract this value depends on whether the magnetic north is east or west of your true north.
Using a Compass to Navigate
With a solid understanding of your compass's workings, you're ready to navigate using it. Here's how you can use a compass to find your way:
Find your location on a map, pinpoint your destination, and identify a visible landmark along your route. Holding your compass flat in your hand, place the straight edge of your baseplate parallel to lines on your map that head towards your landmark. Apply the same angle to the compass by turning the dial until the 'Direction of Travel' arrow points towards your landmark. Now, turn your body to match this direction, and you'll be traveling towards your destination.
Sampling & Backsighting
Sometimes, you'll encounter double marks representing two directions—the 'route chosen' and 'return route.' This happens when the compass cannot recalibrate; keep your target in mind, and walk accordingly. Another crucial practice is 'backsighting'—once in a while, look behind you to ensure you're on route. If you've deviated, adjust your direction using your compass.
Additionally, consider 'sampling' or regular compass checking to ensure you're on course. It's best to sample at points where you can sight your target clearly, like a geographical feature or a known landmark.
Pacing & Timing
Navigating using a compass isn't just about direction; you also need to know how far you've traveled. Begin by determining your pacing: measure your steps at a normal walking pace, usually around 2,000 to 2,500 paces in a mile. Record your pace on the baseplate of your compass.
Once you walk, keep count of your steps. To measure time, use a known landmark or use a watch. Combine your pacing, timing, and compass readings to determine your progress accurately. This technique, known as 'Pacing and Timing,' is particularly useful in poor visibility conditions or dense undergrowth where landmarks aren't visible.
Using a compass doesn't have to be daunting. With patience and practice, it becomes a reliable and versatile tool that can help you explore new trails and landscapes. Happy navigating!