Modern navigation devices are becoming more and more affordable. However, the most common compass is still popular, and it has many advantages. Most importantly, it works without batteries. Accordingly, there is a certain guarantee that the device will function as long as you are in the field. To learn to walk in azimuth, you just need to understand how the compass works.
It is necessary
- - compass;
- - local map;
- - notebook;
- - pencil.
Instructions
Step 1
Learn to determine the north by the compass. Typically, this instrument has a long needle with two points. One end of it points to the north, the other to the south. The one to the north is always marked. It can be blue - then the southern one is colored red. There may be other designations as well.
Step 2
Consider the limb. The cardinal points are indicated on it. The north is written with the Russian letter "C" or the Latin letter "N". This mark is always there. On the opposite side, respectively, there will be "Yu" or "S". If you stand facing north, then the left will be west, and the right will be east. They can also be marked on the compass with the corresponding Russian letters or Latin "W" (west) or "E" (east).
Step 3
Look closely at the limb. It is split 360 °. This is necessary in order to determine the angle between the direction to the north and the one along which you are walking. Compasses can be of different designs. Some models are equipped with an additional arrow that allows you to fix the angle. Other modifications have a compass, a device resembling a telescopic sight that allows you to better aim at an object. But all magnetic compasses work according to the same principle.
Step 4
Place the compass in a stable horizontal position. Wait for the arrow to calm down. This will happen pretty quickly. Turn the instrument carefully so that the direction of the arrow aligns with the letter "C" on the dial. Choose the direction you need to go and a landmark. It should be a noticeable stationary object - some kind of structure, a kind of tree. Aim at this object and notice the angle between the directions. If there is a map, orient it in the same way as a compass, and mark the path to the object by marking the angle. If you don't have a map, write down the direction in a notebook. You are unlikely to be able to get to the desired object in a straight line, because on the way you may encounter buildings, streams or ravines that you will have to bypass. When you reach the desired point, select the next landmark and again determine the angle between the directions to it and to the north. You will return by records or by map.
