Map & Compass Resources & Links
Here are links to materials that I provide for a map and compass class that I teach at Idaho State University:
- You’ll find a series of lecture materials, images, and accompanying descriptions at this link: Use of a Compass, Map Bearings, Field Bearings and More
Specific topics include:
- Map Bearings: How to take a bearing on a map (Using a series of illustrations, this webpage shows how map bearings are determined.)
- Applying Map Bearings to the Field (Once you’ve taken a map bearing, this explains how to apply it to the field)
- Field Bearings (Describes the technique of taking a field bearing)
- Known Location: Field to Map (If you know your location, this describes how to use field bearings to identify distant points)
- Unknown Along Stream: Field to Map (If you are somewhere along a stream, trail, ridge line or road, this describes how to use a field bearing to determine your location)
- Completely Unknown Location (If you don’t know your location, this describes how to use two field bearing to pinpoint your location.)
- Compasses & Declination (The best type of compass to use is one that allows you to adjust declination. If, however, you don’t have a declination adjustable compass, this describes an alternative technique that you can use.)
- Additional Helpful Information (Includes: How to take a map bearing when the points are very close together, a summary of map & compass techniques, dealing with the parallel lines on your compass dial, and how to sight a landmark using a compass with a mirror.
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