[pct-l] compass

[Robert W. Freed]

Being able to read a map is the first step in thinking about a compass.
Any compass will be fine once you can read a topo map correctly. You
will not be playing find the flag. I've only needed a compass a few times
on the trail. Once when the trail was washed out by flooding for miles.
And once when the trail was cover in snow for miles. You just need to
be able to triangulate your position by spotting a few major land marks.
Am I on the right ridge or in the right valley. I have one of those cool
watches with everything. More of a toy than a tool. The compass works
well. Withing a degree or so, plus you can pre-set the declination. The
altimeter... is constantly wrong by several hundred feet or more. The
thermometer... well it is a fun toy. I use it constantly to reassure my
self on the trail. When I'm lost I break out the plastic Silva Compass
with the mirror and site in a few landmarks.
Robert