HOW TO USE A COMPASS

A BASIC STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE

These basic "How-To" compass directions are described using our Treknor T580 compass, relative to Magnetic North only.  If you want to learn how to use your magnetic declination to take your bearings relative to True North, please click HERE.

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What direction is that object ahead?

  • How to use a compass - Step 1

    STEP 1

    Hold the compass level, and directly in front of you, with the direction of travel arrow (The Treknor logo on the T580) pointing to the object ahead.

  • How to use a compass - Step 2

    STEP 2

    Rotate the bezel until the North end of the needle (usually Red) is pointing to the "N" of the bezel (located at the 0/360 degree location on the bezel).

  • How to use a compass - Step 3

    STEP 3

    Now you can read your direction of travel to the object by reading the location where the bezel crosses the reading line inside the bezel (243 degrees in this example).

I know my desired direction. How do I go there?

  • How to use a compass - Step 4

    STEP 1

    Rotate the bezel on your compass until the reading line is at your desired direction. (In this case, pretend you want to head at a bearing of 55 degrees).

  • How to use a compass - Step 5

    STEP 2

    While holding the compass level, and directly in front of you, rotate your body with the compass until the North end of the needle (usually Red) is pointing to the "N" of the bezel (located at the 0/360 degree location on the bezel).

  • How to use a compass - Step 6

    STEP 3

    Now the direction of travel arrow (the Treknor logo on the T580 Orienteer Compass) is pointing in the direction you need to go.

Special Traveling Notes: Once you are pointed in the right direction, do not try to walk while keeping your compass lined up perfectly. You will never be able to walk straight enough. Instead, while you are still stationary, pick an object in the distance directly in line with your desired direction -- and walk to that object. After you reach that object, repeat the process to your next object. Keep repeating this process until you reach your required distance or destination.