8
OBTAIN A BEARING FROM A MAP
Section D
W
e state in Sect. A, that one of the two conditions for using the Silva Ranger is to
set the dial at the desired degree reading. If this degree or bearing is not known, it
can be determined from a map. Your compass is also a protractor with a transpar-
ent bottom in the dial housing. Two steps are required:
1. Lay the compass on the map so either the inch scale or the millimeter scale
is exactly on (or parallel with) the line on the map you wish to travel, and the
hinged cover points in the direction of travel.
2. Hold the compass in position on the map, turn the dial so the meridian lines of
the compass are exactly parallel with any meridian (North-South) line on the
map, and the letter “N” on top of the dial is toward North on the map.
R
emove the compass from the map. These two steps set your compass for the
degree reading to your destination. This reading may be read at the index pointer.
You fulfilled the first basic condition in Sect. A. Proceed to Sect. B or C.
ABOUT DECLINATION
Section E
T
he magnetic needle in a compass is attracted by the magnetism of the Earth. This is
why it always points to the constantly shifting Magnetic North where the magnetic
lines of force come together. There is another “North Pole.” True North is static
and located geographically, maps and directions usually are based on True North.
