Krik, I watched several videos of "how to use a compass with a map" and yours was the only one that was articulated and demonstrated correctly. Your use of Close Ups, examples and details of each step makes sure that the audience is not left confused. Well done man! Thank you!
As someone who has zero sense of direction, and tends to stink at following even simple instructions, I figured I'd have one hell of a time learning to use a map and compass... However, this video is extremely informative, while still keeping it simple and easy for me to follow along!! Major thanks good sir!!
As someone who knew almost nothing about a compass I feel so much more directionally empowered (I am awful with directions)! Thank you SO much. The info is very important to know so thank you for teaching me and sharing your knowledge with so many other people. God bless
Excellent vid, sir!!! You did not get bogged down in jargon.. I would encourage whoever views this to practice at a local park....lots of landmarks and if curious onlookers want learn so much the better...don't ever buy a compass and stick in it in a rucksack thinking you know to use it....practice and have fun!!!!
Its been many years since I last used a map and compass and as I am about to embark on a 3 week walking holiday in Scotland, your simple video has refreshed my skills. I have a GPS but prefer to use the map and compass. Thanks for that!
It does! I signed up as an orienteering merit badge counselor for a boy scout troop. I'm so glad I found you on UA-cam. Between the BSA booklet and your videos, I just need to try it out on a topo map so I appear as if I know what I'm doing.
You made this very easy to understand. Some other channels that I watch have gone over this info and , well it was very confusing . Another good point that you used was the map. Strange how many people carry a compass but not a map. Once you get the compass set put the map in your pack; yes folks, take it with you.
OMG - I GET it! I have had this compass in my backpack (ranger 515) for almost a year and your explanation of using it with map is superb! I took an online class and did not feel confident with it. I think I am ready to use it now!!!!!
I write to you using a translator because I do not speak English! Sorry! But I found your video very interesting, and the use of the mirror taught me a lot, Thank you very much!
Thank you!! With a little help from you hopefully I won't get lost archery hunting for the first time. Feel a bit better about navigation now. I will pass on to my little ones.
Before this video i was thinking navigating with map and compas was hard. But after your video i undrstand how it works and looks so easy. Good video. Thanx
Thanks so much! I just bought a compass for my boyfriend (birthday gift), we do a lot of hiking and he's a much more traditional type of traveler and not too good with the techy stuff. He still knows how to take a reading on a sailboat with a sextant so this is right up his alley. I just bought a recta (basically the same version) and wanted to understand as well, the basics on its uses, so thank you. I hope to get a little bit more into the complexities of its use, but this is a good start!
Good video in general. Thanks for posting! However . . . to the beginners out there who are still learning, there is a VERY crucial point that he didn't mention because it seems obvious, but beginners tend to miss obvious things. Understand, you can NOT just set your map down at random, in any old convenient spot (such as on the handy log in this video), in order to go through these steps. You MUST first align your map so that NORTH on the map is actually aiming NORTH in real life. Even if that means holding the map in some awkward way. North on the map MUST aim north in real life FIRST. If you skip that step, the rest of this will lead you in the WRONG direction. Guaranteed. Also, the "firearm sight" he refers to is not the gap near the hinge that he points to. Not all compasses have that gap. It is actually the notch on TOP of the mirror (but the concept is the same, so his advice on what to DO with the sight works the same either way). Having said all that, if you follow my advice first, and his advice for ALL THE REST, you will be well on your way to having a GREAT time orienteering in the wilderness! (Give this a "thumbs up" so the newbs will be "pointed in the right direction". Also, check out his other tutorials. He does a nice job.) Cheers!
rmcdaniel423, I respectfully disagree with the first part of your comment. Krik did it perfectly. You can in fact set your map down at random, because you were simply using your compass dial as a protractor to measure the angular distance between your current location and where you want to go. When you do this, your map can be facing in any direction, and it doesn't matter. You can hold your map vertically on the wall, upside down, facing any direction - measuring the angle between point a and point B all works the same. You are correct on the "fire arm sight" comment, however.
I don't get why this is most up voted comment. You definitely do not need to pre-orient the map towards actual North. You just need to setup the map so North is "up". As a side note the sights are not really necessary, you can just look at roughly where you are going and shoot for something reasonable. Then just check your compass again.
Actually, you need not follow the advice that you "MUST first align your map so that NORTH on the map is actually aiming NORTH in real life." What is actually required is merely that the north arrow on this compass (the red outline arrow inside the dial) points at magnetic north on the map while lining up the baseplate edge from point A to point B on the map. This can be even done while lying on your back, holding the map over your head! Yes, it's handy to line up the map with the terrain once you have the bearing to follow. But it's NOT necessary as a step in obtaining the bearing. What you're describing here is necessary with other types of compasses, not an orienteering compass such as this one.
I disagree with the last statement. On a compass with a clear baseplate, as in the video, one may just use as a protractor, obtain a bearing. Then go to the field or stand up as the case may be, set the bearing on the compass and go. It is one of the advantages of a clear baseplate compass such as this. Cheers! -SunnyWalker
Thank you for this video! I just bought a lensatic military compass (Cammenga). I'm a city folk who's trying to get into hunting and I am a newbie when it comes to woods and stuff. Your video, even though it's not the same compass, really helps me understand all the doodads on my compass
This is a very straight forward and informative tutorial, the only thing I would change Krik is that bit at the end of the video where you included 'berate me'. I know it goes without saying that the internet is full of trolls and you can always find at least one ignorant statement in the comments section and a mature person who is sure of themselves would be unfazed by this however I probably wouldnt give them encouragement to do so. You might create some kind of Super Troll!
Wow ... so many haters in these comments. Why on earth would anyone watch a video titled "How to Use a Compass & Map [Compass Navigation Tutorial]" just to comment that they didn't need to know how to use a compass and map?!?! Anyway, great video.
Good video. However don't forget to first get the declination for your area and correct the red arrow on your compass. Thats what the little screw is for. Also when sighting a baring keep an eye on the line down the centre of the the mirror. If you keep that line in the centre of the compass needle where the needle pivots while you are sighting through the hole at the base it will ensure your eye is looking through it straight on and not from a side angle. Just helps to increase accuracy.
1. Very clear, simple explanation. The distance being travelled in the example was not very far. If the distance is far, a person needs to learn about magnetic vs. true north and the concept of declination. Another concept that he was trying to teach is called "military crest". Sometimes, you cannot have a clear view from the top of a hill. If a "military crest" exists, you should be able to have a view from it.
Thank you! You really explained it well. I've been packing the Suunto compass for years. Never had the chance to use it, even to just practice. I'm heading out today with a friend and we'll be working on compass and map reading. We've got the perfect winter place to hike and practice this without getting totally lost..LOL..
thanks for the video. Your map doesn't need to be oriented to north when you're just looking for an A to B heading from the map. I find that people learn faster if you tell them they don't need to worry about the needle direction WHILE THE COMPASS IS ON THE MAP unless they are orienting a map (which is a different process with a different purpose).
Kirk, this is literally the best video in which explains the proper use of a compass and easy to understand. Thank you! Also, if you've time can you do a video on the topo maps and how to read them? Keep up the great work. - Anthony
Very helpful, thank you! I am a beginner and want to understand how to navigate without a GPS. Some other videos explaining the same thing use a lot of words I've never heard before and don't give a definition, which kind of renders the rest of the lesson useless. But you explained it in pretty simple terms so thank you for that. Some of these videos should really come with a vocab list lol
6:05 I think it's just me, but it doesn't look like it's lined up with north on the map. It looks like it is pointing NNW in relation to the rose on the map.
It’s adjusted for declination for his specific region. You always have to adjust for the difference between magnetic north and true north. That way when you start from zero you don’t need to do the math each time. It would be a whole separate video topic, but it’s not a trivial detail.
woww thank you! I was in boy scouts for several years but i never really fully understood the whole concept of using the compass along with the map. But after watching your vid I GOT IT!!! I am kinda slow... lol But without a doubt it was very helpful. I clearly get it now!! You are awesome! Keep up the great vids!!!
Kirk, excellent explanation of basic orienteering! You were very clear with the your examples, and using a hand drawn sketch with simple topological features was very effective. It was somewhat distracting for me when you shook the compass or waved your hands around as you were talking, but otherwise, great job.
This is something I've really wanted to learn and haven't honest been too lazy to take the time... thank you for the awesome video :) It's a great starter to me setting out and trying some stuff in the alaska wilderness up here come next summer.
Disregard this person's feedback. Anyone who thinks you rambled in that video doesn't have the brain power to follow what you were saying; Which, by the way, was very clear and well articulated. Thanks ;)
This is an excellent video. I was pretty sure that I understood compass navigation beforehand - your video confirmed and strengthened my confidence. Thanks Krik!
An impressive video, I just given this onto a colleague who was doing slightly evaluation on this. And he in reality purchased me breakfast as a result of I discovered it for him.. smile. So let me reword that: Thnx for the deal with! But yeah Thnkx for spending the time to discuss this, I feel strongly about it and love studying extra on this topic. If possible, as you grow to be experience, would you mind updating your youtube channel with more particulars? Its highly useful for me. Big thumb up for this video put up!
thanks so much for watching and the kind words. and yes, we do have summer, but a lot of our videos are shot underneath the canopy, so the vibrancy of the sun is sometimes hard to capture. - stony
Your video WAS VERY helpful!!! I'm taking a forestry measurements class, distance learning right now, sadly... My professor is doing their best but lack the necessary media skills!!
Very good video sir! Was thinking of getting. cheap compass but after watching your video I'll be getting myself a compass with a mirror even if they are slightly more expensive. Think it's worth it in the long run :) Thank you!
@black owl outdoors Please do a video on how to navigate with a compass and a USGS topo 7.5 minute series map. Thank you...you channel is one of the best I've checked out! keep the videos coming bro.
That was the best compass/map guide I've been able to find. Simple and to the point. Thankyou Black Owl. Is there a topo map tutorial as you said you may do?
Krik, I watched several videos of "how to use a compass with a map" and yours was the only one that was articulated and demonstrated correctly. Your use of Close Ups, examples and details of each step makes sure that the audience is not left confused. Well done man! Thank you!
As someone who has zero sense of direction, and tends to stink at following even simple instructions, I figured I'd have one hell of a time learning to use a map and compass... However, this video is extremely informative, while still keeping it simple and easy for me to follow along!! Major thanks good sir!!
As someone who knew almost nothing about a compass I feel so much more directionally empowered (I am awful with directions)! Thank you SO much. The info is very important to know so thank you for teaching me and sharing your knowledge with so many other people. God bless
Excellent vid, sir!!! You did not get bogged down in jargon.. I would encourage whoever views this to practice at a local park....lots of landmarks and if curious onlookers want learn so much the better...don't ever buy a compass and stick in it in a rucksack thinking you know to use it....practice and have fun!!!!
Fantastic.. takes me back to 8th grade... when school actually taught skills you might need.
My uncle put me in the woods and said good luck.
@GuinnessandPizza they were just trying to get rid of you. I fully understand.
@GuinnessandPizza You have to be trolling....
Its been many years since I last used a map and compass and as I am about to embark on a 3 week walking holiday in Scotland, your simple video has refreshed my skills. I have a GPS but prefer to use the map and compass. Thanks for that!
I know that I'm super late but I had to say that this is the best explanation I've seen for how to use a compass. Thanks for doing what you do.
Well, after watching a few videos about using a compass and not understanding anything, this video actually helpoed. Thank You!
My students enjoyed watching your video AND learned the information they need to know. Thanks!
It does! I signed up as an orienteering merit badge counselor for a boy scout troop. I'm so glad I found you on UA-cam. Between the BSA booklet and your videos, I just need to try it out on a topo map so I appear as if I know what I'm doing.
Thus is the kind of stuff kids should learn in school!!
You made this very easy to understand. Some other channels that I watch have gone over this info and , well it was very confusing . Another good point that you used was the map. Strange how many people carry a compass but not a map. Once you get the compass set put the map in your pack; yes folks, take it with you.
OMG - I GET it! I have had this compass in my backpack (ranger 515) for almost a year and your explanation of using it with map is superb! I took an online class and did not feel confident with it. I think I am ready to use it now!!!!!
I write to you using a translator because I do not speak English! Sorry! But I found your video very interesting, and the use of the mirror taught me a lot, Thank you very much!
Thanks for a very instructive video. Learned everything I sought to learn before buying a proper compass for my husband for Father's Day.
Finally a navigation video that makes sense!
Thank you!! With a little help from you hopefully I won't get lost archery hunting for the first time. Feel a bit better about navigation now. I will pass on to my little ones.
Before this video i was thinking navigating with map and compas was hard. But after your video i undrstand how it works and looks so easy. Good video. Thanx
Thank you for the kind words, Curtis. I'm glad the video was easy to understand. That was my sole purpose. -Krik
Great refresher on navigation for me. Thanks very much for posting!
Thanks so much! I just bought a compass for my boyfriend (birthday gift), we do a lot of hiking and he's a much more traditional type of traveler and not too good with the techy stuff. He still knows how to take a reading on a sailboat with a sextant so this is right up his alley. I just bought a recta (basically the same version) and wanted to understand as well, the basics on its uses, so thank you. I hope to get a little bit more into the complexities of its use, but this is a good start!
Good video in general. Thanks for posting!
However . . . to the beginners out there who are still learning, there is a VERY crucial point that he didn't mention because it seems obvious, but beginners tend to miss obvious things.
Understand, you can NOT just set your map down at random, in any old convenient spot (such as on the handy log in this video), in order to go through these steps. You MUST first align your map so that NORTH on the map is actually aiming NORTH in real life. Even if that means holding the map in some awkward way. North on the map MUST aim north in real life FIRST. If you skip that step, the rest of this will lead you in the WRONG direction. Guaranteed. Also, the "firearm sight" he refers to is not the gap near the hinge that he points to. Not all compasses have that gap. It is actually the notch on TOP of the mirror (but the concept is the same, so his advice on what to DO with the sight works the same either way).
Having said all that, if you follow my advice first, and his advice for ALL THE REST, you will be well on your way to having a GREAT time orienteering in the wilderness! (Give this a "thumbs up" so the newbs will be "pointed in the right direction". Also, check out his other tutorials. He does a nice job.)
Cheers!
rmcdaniel423, I respectfully disagree with the first part of your comment.
Krik did it perfectly. You can in fact set your map down at random, because you were simply using your compass dial as a protractor to measure the angular distance between your current location and where you want to go. When you do this, your map can be facing in any direction, and it doesn't matter. You can hold your map vertically on the wall, upside down, facing any direction - measuring the angle between point a and point B all works the same.
You are correct on the "fire arm sight" comment, however.
I don't get why this is most up voted comment. You definitely do not need to pre-orient the map towards actual North. You just need to setup the map so North is "up".
As a side note the sights are not really necessary, you can just look at roughly where you are going and shoot for something reasonable. Then just check your compass again.
Actually, you need not follow the advice that you "MUST first align your map so that NORTH on the map is actually aiming NORTH in real life." What is actually required is merely that the north arrow on this compass (the red outline arrow inside the dial) points at magnetic north on the map while lining up the baseplate edge from point A to point B on the map. This can be even done while lying on your back, holding the map over your head! Yes, it's handy to line up the map with the terrain once you have the bearing to follow. But it's NOT necessary as a step in obtaining the bearing. What you're describing here is necessary with other types of compasses, not an orienteering compass such as this one.
I disagree with the last statement. On a compass with a clear baseplate, as in the video, one may just use as a protractor, obtain a bearing. Then go to the field or stand up as the case may be, set the bearing on the compass and go. It is one of the advantages of a clear baseplate compass such as this. Cheers! -SunnyWalker
i think your right and i hope your right are you right ?
Very informative. After watching a handful of videos, I finally get it on this one lol
Thank you for this video! I just bought a lensatic military compass (Cammenga). I'm a city folk who's trying to get into hunting and I am a newbie when it comes to woods and stuff. Your video, even though it's not the same compass, really helps me understand all the doodads on my compass
Nice video. I really appreciate people like you who take the time to walk us through the process. Great pace, clearly spoken. A+
Thank you, using a compas is way easier that i thought!
A timely topic, learned in the Marine Corps. An extremely valuable skill
I have just found your channel. Love the basic outdoor skills videos.
very good video. I'm a navigation newb, And your video taught me a lot. Thank you for making it..
I've watched a few videos on this topic and this has to be the best, easiest explanation I've seen. Well done and thank you!
This is a very straight forward and informative tutorial, the only thing I would change Krik is that bit at the end of the video where you included 'berate me'. I know it goes without saying that the internet is full of trolls and you can always find at least one ignorant statement in the comments section and a mature person who is sure of themselves would be unfazed by this however I probably wouldnt give them encouragement to do so. You might create some kind of Super Troll!
Thanks for the video explaining how to use a mirror compass. It's a big help.
Wow ... so many haters in these comments. Why on earth would anyone watch a video titled "How to Use a Compass & Map [Compass Navigation Tutorial]" just to comment that they didn't need to know how to use a compass and map?!?!
Anyway, great video.
Ive had a compass for some time, but I never knew how to use it UNTIL I came across your vid. thank you so very much! :)
I have just watched this video and it was good to go back to basics!!! Many thanks for showing this.
Good video. However don't forget to first get the declination for your area and correct the red arrow on your compass. Thats what the little screw is for.
Also when sighting a baring keep an eye on the line down the centre of the the mirror. If you keep that line in the centre of the compass needle where the needle pivots while you are sighting through the hole at the base it will ensure your eye is looking through it straight on and not from a side angle. Just helps to increase accuracy.
1. Very clear, simple explanation.
The distance being travelled in the example was not very far. If the distance is far, a person needs to learn about magnetic vs. true north and the concept of declination.
Another concept that he was trying to teach is called "military crest". Sometimes, you cannot have a clear view from the top of a hill. If a "military crest" exists, you should be able to have a view from it.
Thank you! You really explained it well. I've been packing the Suunto compass for years. Never had the chance to use it, even to just practice. I'm heading out today with a friend and we'll be working on compass and map reading. We've got the perfect winter place to hike and practice this without getting totally lost..LOL..
Thanks for this video, it is a really in depth explanation of how to use a compass and a map.
thanks for the video. Your map doesn't need to be oriented to north when you're just looking for an A to B heading from the map. I find that people learn faster if you tell them they don't need to worry about the needle direction WHILE THE COMPASS IS ON THE MAP unless they are orienting a map (which is a different process with a different purpose).
Good video and short but to the point, perfect! Will be looking at some other vids of yours. Thank you!
amazingly easy to understand. thank you.
You're welcome!
Black Owl Outdoors
Kirk, this is literally the best video in which explains the proper use of a compass and easy to understand. Thank you! Also, if you've time can you do a video on the topo maps and how to read them? Keep up the great work. - Anthony
Very helpful, thank you! I am a beginner and want to understand how to navigate without a GPS. Some other videos explaining the same thing use a lot of words I've never heard before and don't give a definition, which kind of renders the rest of the lesson useless. But you explained it in pretty simple terms so thank you for that. Some of these videos should really come with a vocab list lol
6:05 I think it's just me, but it doesn't look like it's lined up with north on the map. It looks like it is pointing NNW in relation to the rose on the map.
I don't think he actually knows his compass :D
It’s adjusted for declination for his specific region. You always have to adjust for the difference between magnetic north and true north. That way when you start from zero you don’t need to do the math each time. It would be a whole separate video topic, but it’s not a trivial detail.
I like this video! Nice demonstration, while utilizing your style is equally nice!
Great video! Slow and very explanatory. I feel like I could do this after watching your video, even though I know it will take some practice.
woww thank you! I was in boy scouts for several years but i never really fully understood the whole concept of using the compass along with the map. But after watching your vid I GOT IT!!! I am kinda slow... lol But without a doubt it was very helpful. I clearly get it now!! You are awesome! Keep up the great vids!!!
Very informative and easy to understand, well done!
Kirk, excellent explanation of basic orienteering! You were very clear with the your examples, and using a hand drawn sketch with simple topological features was very effective. It was somewhat distracting for me when you shook the compass or waved your hands around as you were talking, but otherwise, great job.
thank you that helped me a lot, I'm new in boy scouts and I did not know how to use a compass, I'm subscribing.
Great video, informative and easy to understand.
Great job! Finally a real explaination...
Thanks! Easy to understand and simply helpful.
Very well demonstrated, easy to follow
Awesome video these skills will definitely come in useful this summer.
This is something I've really wanted to learn and haven't honest been too lazy to take the time... thank you for the awesome video :) It's a great starter to me setting out and trying some stuff in the alaska wilderness up here come next summer.
Thank you so much! This helped me with my exam :) Hope you have a great day.
Great video man. Your explanation is simple and concise. Thank you and I look forward to a topographical map video.
Best video of it's sort. Thanks man.
Disregard this person's feedback. Anyone who thinks you rambled in that video doesn't have the brain power to follow what you were saying; Which, by the way, was very clear and well articulated. Thanks ;)
Thanks - very easy tutorial to follow and learn from.
thanks man. im kinda new in navigation stuff this video really helps
This is an excellent video. I was pretty sure that I understood compass navigation beforehand - your video confirmed and strengthened my confidence. Thanks Krik!
That was a realy good tutorial. I watched several and you did the clearest explanation and thank you for that.
An impressive video, I just given this onto a colleague who was doing slightly evaluation on this. And he in reality purchased me breakfast as a result of I discovered it for him.. smile. So let me reword that: Thnx for the deal with! But yeah Thnkx for spending the time to discuss this, I feel strongly about it and love studying extra on this topic. If possible, as you grow to be experience, would you mind updating your youtube channel with more particulars? Its highly useful for me. Big thumb up for this video put up!
thanks so much for watching and the kind words. and yes, we do have summer, but a lot of our videos are shot underneath the canopy, so the vibrancy of the sun is sometimes hard to capture. - stony
Great video. Very informative. Camera a little blurry at times but I still understood and gained some information. Thank you!
Hey Krik, Great video, very informative, keep up the great work.
THANKYOU this is the only video that helped
Your video WAS VERY helpful!!! I'm taking a forestry measurements class, distance learning right now, sadly... My professor is doing their best but lack the necessary media skills!!
that was epically helpful. 11/10! cheers dude!
Thank you very much. This helped with my science homework.
Very good video sir! Was thinking of getting. cheap compass but after watching your video I'll be getting myself a compass with a mirror even if they are slightly more expensive. Think it's worth it in the long run :) Thank you!
Great video. Very well done and easy to understand. Thank you very much for this.
Thank you for making it so simple and understandable!
very good ,thx for helping .you break down easy , that a good thing
@black owl outdoors Please do a video on how to navigate with a compass and a USGS topo 7.5 minute series map. Thank you...you channel is one of the best I've checked out! keep the videos coming bro.
Awesome video man it was worth the wait
Thanks Krik! Got it now. Dig the use of reference point. Peace!
Nicely done. It helped me a great deal.
@9:11 - that was some slick focusing work.
Great video, really descriptive.
Excellent vid. Articulate and obviously knowledgeable. Cheers.
Awesome video!! Thanks for the refresher
Awesome video! I took a basic nav course through REI. This was much easier to understand. Well done!
thanks for the great info....had to get a refresher and this was on point!
Outstanding video guys. Incredibly informative. Keep up the good work.
Hey this was really helpful, thanks for the video.
Great video! Thanks Krik
Definitely going to need this during the summer. Thanks!
Easy to follow and very informative for a complete beginner like me, thanks Krik.
That was the best compass/map guide I've been able to find. Simple and to the point.
Thankyou Black Owl.
Is there a topo map tutorial as you said you may do?
Thanks I can say I honesty learned something!
very well explained sir! thank you
good vid, simple and to the point.
Great video, thanks for posting!
Very useful video. Thanks a lot!
Awesome video. Very helpful. Thank you : )
that sighting line..is fantastic... nice