How to Take a Bearing

For this technique you will need:

• A protractor compass
• A map covering your current location and your intended destination
• Knowledge of your current position on the map

Step 1

Lay the map down on a flat surface so that you can see both your current position and your intended destination. The map does not have to be correctly aligned with the surrounding landscape. It is irrelevant which way the map is facing.

The map should be on a flat surface and showing both current position and destination.

Step 2

Place your protractor compass on the map so that either one of the long edges runs along the line that passes between your current position and your destination. Ensure that the direction of travel arrow on the compass is pointing in the direction of your destination.

Align one side of the compass with your current position and destination.

Step 3

Turn the compass housing until the orienting lines in the centre of the housing are parallel to the vertical grid lines on the map.

Turn the compass housing so that the orienting lines are aligned with the grid lines on the map.

Step 4

Read off the bearing at the point where the index line (the line at the bottom of the direction of travel arrow) intersects with the compass housing.

Step 5

Depending on where you are in the world, you will now have to compensate for the difference between magnetic north and grid north. The map should tell you how many degrees to add to the bearing. Calculate the correct bearing and adjust the compass housing so that the revised bearing is just below the index line.

Step 6

To navigate with the compass, hold it flat in front of you, with the direction of travel arrow pointing away from you. Now turn until the red part of the needle points to north on the compass housing. You are now facing in the correct direction.

To navigate, turn until the red needle points to North on the compass housing.

Tags: bearings, compass, Equipment, maps, Navigation, tutorials