Navigation 101: Map, Compass, Confidence

Objective

Nail reliable movement without GPS using bearings, pace count, and terrain association.

Scenario (Example)

Example: Dense conifer forest; visibility 60–100 m; two creeks and a road for handrails.

Step-by-Step

1. Orient map; mark handrails/backstops.
2. Plot bearing to an attack point.
3. Set pace counts for flat/up/down.
4. Move in legs; confirm features at halts.
5. From attack point, shoot precise final bearing.

Terrain Association

• Keep a running model: “rising left, creek right.”
• Use handrails and collecting features.

STOP if Lost

1. Stop
2. Think
3. Observe
4. Plan to a known feature

Real Example

Overshot a spur by 200 m; intentionally hit the creek (handrail) and followed it to the attack point.

Checklist

• Baseplate compass
• Printed map
• Pace beads
• Grease pencil

Contingencies

• Interference → step away 10 m and recheck.
• Night nav → slow pace; brighter attack points.
• Fog → shorten legs; tighter backstops.

After-Action

Record actual vs. planned legs and adjust your pace card.

← Previous | All Articles | Next →