Compass Hints for Wilderness Navigation

There are a number of things you can do to improve
your use of a Magnetic Compass in the wilderness.

On the mountains mistakes are fatal. — Mark Udall

To become a good wilderness navigator you must learn to always Trust Your Compass. Everyone in a group/party MUST CARRY A COMPASS to ensure that if separated each member of the group can still navigate. Quality compass are manufactured for a particular region of the world, make sure you only a compass made for the region you are in. Would you trust your life to a poor quality rope? Not very likely, so purchase a quality liquid-filled, clear base plated sighting compass with adjustable declination. A Romer on the base plate is also a good idea and comes with nearly all quality compasses.

Here are a few hints to allow you to use your compass better:

Trust Your Compass.
Hold your compass level.
Remember that your compass takes time to settle.
(At least 30 seconds, more if close to any metal objects.)
Each compass has an individual error.
(Quality compasses have smaller errors.)
Do not take bearing near metal objects or power lines.
(i.e. power poles, power lines, cars, buildings, pipelines, fence posts, etc.)

Join us for a Real Outdoor Education

Compass Hints for Wilderness Navigation

There are a number of things you can do to improveyour use of a Magnetic Compass in the wilderness.

Here are a few hints to allow you to use your compass better:

Join us for a Real Outdoor Education

There are a number of things you can do to improve
your use of a Magnetic Compass in the wilderness.