| Map Reading |
| Compass Usage of Compass The compass is a vital aid to orienteering. It can help you to locate where you are on a map and assist you to fond your way. The parts of a Silva Compass A Silva Compass has three main parts to it. These are: A) The Compass Itself: This refer to the magnetic needle, the red end of which is North-seeking. So, when the compass is held flat , it swing round the Magnetic North. B) Dial: The see through plastic case around the compass needle, which cam be rotated. When you rotate the dial, the red line (Orienteering Line or North South Lines) and the red arrow (Orienting Arrow), which are at the bottom of the dial also rotates. C) Base Plate: The see through plastic on which the dial and compass sit. Along the sides of the base plate are measurement scales which can be used as a ruler to measure the distance on the map. The most important thing on the base plate is the Direction of Travel Arrow. When the arrow meets the dial, there is a little black line on the edge of the dial, which does not move when you rotate the dial. Thus line is called the Index Pointer. Fig 5.4 illustrate that the different between a bearing and its back bearing 180o. Therefore, given the bearing, to find the back bearing add 180 o, if the bearing is more than 180 o subtract 180 o. Example: Forward bearing Back Bearing 40 o 40 o + 180 o = 220 o 280 o 280 o 180 o = 100 o |
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