The true north is unmoving, but the magnetic north isn’t. The north on your map is actually called the geographical or the true north, and the compass needle points to the north magnetic pole, aka the magnetic north. Step 1: Adjust Compass DeclinationĮveryone knows that a compass needle points to the north, but in reality two “norths” exist. When taking bearings, you will align this grid with the vertical lines on your map. ![]() Orienting lines – a grid that rotates along with the bezel. If your compass doesn’t allow you to set up magnetic declination, this arrow will be in parallel with the orienting lines. ![]() Orienting arrow – also red, is used to orient your compass after calculating a bearing. Magnetic needle – usually red, shows you the direction of the north.ĭeclination adjustment – a marker that tells you when to stop rotating the declination adjustment key (which comes attached to a compass’s lanyard). Index line – a little marker that gives you bearings.Īzimuth ring – aka rotating bezel, is a swiveling 360-degree azimuth scale (azimuths and bearings are essentially synonyms, we’ll explain it later). Rulers – handy to calculate distances using the scale on your map.Ĭompass housing – where all the magic happens. For the purpose of this guide, we’re dissecting one of the most popular magnetic compasses on the market:īaseplate – must be transparent so you can see the map below, and have at least one straight edge for drawing lines and calculating azimuths.ĭirection-of-travel arrow – as the name suggests, shows you where exactly you should go after taking a bearing.
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