Video tutorial links - I thought both of these videos were pretty good.
First link - I put this one first because it's shorter
Second link - This one is a bit longer
Don't forget the first link I posted in orienting a map. This one includes instructions for taking a bearing too.
Written instructions
The merit badge handbook does not provide instructions on taking a bearing, so this is what I came up with.
Taking a bearing of a physical landmark or terrain feature
1) Point the compass at a landmark you can see from your location (hills and mountain peaks are the most common)
2) Hold the baseplate of the compass steady and rotate the compass housing until the orienteering arrow and the north of the magnetic needle line up.
3) Read the degree measurement on the index line. That is your bearing.
Taking a bearing from a map
1) Orient the map. Look here if you have questions about how to do that.
2) Identify where you are on the map and where you want to get to.
3) Draw a straight line on the map in between those two points.
4) Line up one side of the compass with the line drawn on the map. Make sure the direction of travel arrow is pointing toward the destination you want to get to.
5) Hold the baseplate of the compass steady and rotate the compass housing until the orienteering arrow and the north of the magnetic needle line up.
6) Read the degree measurement on the index line. That is your bearing.
Links
| Home Page | Orienting A Map | Taking A Bearing |
| Measuring Distance | Contour Lines & Terrain Features | Practice & Quiz |
