VE6AB Technical
Orienteering
I have owned my Silva Ranger CL compass for more than 20 years , and I value it highly. It has been on many treks, and although I have other compasses, as well as GPS devices, I never leave home without this compass.
It is extremely accurate and the large mirror enhances accuracy when sighting on distant landmarks.
The three scales provide quick, easy plotting with any of my topo maps.
I really like the silicone feet that provide positive grip on a map, something that most lesser compasses with a base plate are lacking.
The geared declination allows you to set and forget the declination for the area you are in, ensuring constant compensation for this variable when taking bearings.
The declination scale sets easily from the bottom of the compass, and the clinometer lets you measure angles of inclination.
As handy as the small Suunto compass is that is attached to my watch strap, when the going gets tough. I reach for my Siva Ranger.
The basic instructions to use a map and compass are this....
Place your compass on the area map with the Base Plate edge connecting where you are with where you want to go.
Set the compass heading by turning the compass Dial until the “N” aligns with Magnetic North (MN) on the map.
Remove the compass from the map and hold it level in front of you with the Direction of Travel Arrow pointing straight ahead. Turn your body until the red end of the Needle is directly over the Orienting Arrow, pointing to the “N” on the dial. The Direction of Travel Arrow now points precisely to your destination. Look up, sight on a landmark and walk to it. Repeat this procedure until you reach your destination.
Click on the photo for a closer look.....
