Operating instructions for a compass
In simple terms, the compass is a measuring device for determining direction. An operating manual is usually included or you can get it here.
There must be opportunities to orientate oneself in the terrain or on the sea and to find the direction. You can use the stars or the sun and of course a compass.
The principle of operation of a compass
There are a number of different compasses: magnetic, electronic, and gyro compasses. The last two compasses mentioned do not need the earth's magnetic field. You yourself are sure to use a magnetic one in the field.
- With your magnetic compass you can use the earth's magnetic field to determine the cardinal points and thus your direction of march or travel.
- The magnetic compass consists of a housing in which a pointer made of a magnetic material is mounted on a carrier in such a way that it can rotate easily. It aligns with the earth's magnetic field. A so-called compass rose is usually used as the scale, on which you can read off the cardinal points using a 360-degree angle scale.
The operating instructions for the terrain
If you are on the road in the field, then certainly with a corresponding map and marked destinations. You determine your direction together with the compass. The compass must have a leading edge and you should have worked through the operating instructions beforehand.
You are out in the wilderness and want to orientate yourself. Even without a compass ...
- Spread out the map on a flat, horizontal surface and place the compass with its leading edge on a vertical line on the edge.
- The pointer aligns itself with its marked end to the north. You now rotate the map, including the compass, so that the rose is also aligned so that north is where the pointer is pointing.
- Since a map is always oriented to the north, it is now in front of you as is the terrain in which you are. You can now determine your approximate location based on the surroundings and the characteristics of the terrain drawn on the map.
- Find and mark your goals and best connect them with your location with a line. Now read off the compass in which direction you have to go.
- Now you can march off and check every now and then with just the compass that you are staying in the right direction. After longer stretches, you should repeat the process with the map and check on the site whether you are roughly on your drawn line.
Always follow the operating instructions and with a good compass, a good map and an eye for the terrain and the map you will always get to your destination safely.
