Take care of your compass

As with any piece of gear that could save your life you should keep your compass safe. It’s a delicate instrument and will return the favor so don’t drop or stand on it. I keep mine on cord worn around my neck. By all means also keep your compass away from other magnets. The field surrounding another magnet can permanently damage it and will certainly after its accuracy, perhaps drastically.

Finding North

Hold the compass flat in your hand. The RED end of the needle will point toward magnetic north. To find true north determine the declination (magnetic variation) for your location (yes, you should have done this bit of research prior to hitting the trail!) your map should have this information also. Once you have adjusted for the declination line up the RED end of the needle with the appropriate degree marking on the compass; The direction of travel arrow will now be pointing at true north.

Following a Bearing

In the absence of linear features along your route such as a trail, stream, or ridge that you can follow to maintain a sense of direction, you can follow a compass bearing to reach your destination.

After you decide where you want to go. Make sure that you’ve boxed the needle (rotated the needle housing so that the RED end of the needle is pointing north). Aim the direction of travel arrow on your compass towards that point. Find an object that is in line with the direction you want to go and walk to that point. Repeat until you reach your destination.