An orienteering compass contains a needle, a magnetized piece of metal that always points North because it is aligned with the magnetic field surrounding the Earth. The needle rotates freely when the compass is fairly level because it sits on a fine, nearly frictionless point. A good compass has a housing filled with fluid, which slows the needle's motion so it is possible to read a compass even if you're not holding it perfectly still. Hikers and mountain climbers can use a compass for taking a bearing, which keeps them going in the right direction.
Step 1
Remove any metal objects you are wearing or carrying in your pockets, such as a key chain, knife or flashlight. Set them down far enough away from you so that they don't interfere with the magnet in your compass.
Step 2
Set your map on a flat surface. Place the compass on the map. Point the direction of travel arrow, which is on the baseplate, in the direction you want to go on the map.
Step 3
Turn the compass housing -- it's like turning a dial -- so the arrows in its base are pointing the same direction as the map's North arrow. The housing is the round plastic container filled with liquid. It houses the compass needle.
Step 4
Lift the compass up without disturbing the housing and place it flat on your hand. Hold the compass with the direction of travel arrow pointing directly ahead of you.
Step 5
Turn your body until the compass needle lines up with the North arrow on the base of the compass housing.
Step 6
Select a prominent object now in line with the direction of travel arrow and walk toward it.
Step 7
Repeat Step 2 through Step 6 after you reach the object identified. Continue in this manner until you reach your destination. This method allows you go around any obstructions while maintaining your bearing.
Things You'll Need
- Compass
- Map
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