Core Skills
Land Navigation
Find your way without GPS
Why Learn This Skill
GPS depends on satellites, batteries, and electronics — all of which can fail. Map and compass navigation is a timeless skill that works in any condition, in any location, for any threat scenario involving movement.
Step-by-Step Guide
Understanding Topographic Maps
Topo maps show terrain elevation through contour lines. Closely spaced lines mean steep terrain; widely spaced lines mean gentle slopes. Learn to identify ridgelines, valleys, saddles, peaks, and water features. Always orient map with north at top, aligned with your compass.
Compass Basics
The compass needle points to magnetic north, not true north. Declination is the difference — adjust for your region (varies by location, up to 20+ degrees in some areas). Learn to hold a compass level, take a bearing, and walk on a bearing.
Triangulation
Identify two or more known landmarks, take bearings to each, and draw those lines on your map. Where they intersect is your position. This technique works even when you're unsure of your location.
Dead Reckoning
Track your movement from a known starting point using pace count and direction. Know your pace count over 100 meters (typically 60–65 double paces for adults). Mark your distance traveled and heading to estimate current position.
Natural Navigation
Sun rises roughly east, sets roughly west. In the Northern Hemisphere, the sun is due south at noon. Stars: Polaris (North Star) is within 1 degree of true north. Moss grows on the north side of trees — a rough guide, not always reliable.
Pro Tips
- Download and print topo maps for your area NOW while internet is available
- Practice in familiar areas first — navigating somewhere you know builds confidence
- Mark declination adjustment on your map before going into the field
- Confirm your pace count on a measured 100m course
- Always have a hard copy map in your BOB and vehicle — never rely only on digital
Common Mistakes
- Ignoring magnetic declination — can put you miles off course
- Not orienting your map to north before reading it
- Relying on GPS until the battery dies — switching to compass under stress is hard
- Not practicing regularly — this skill fades without use
- Buying cheap compasses — a quality baseplate compass (Silva or Suunto) is worth the investment
Recommended Tools & Gear
Related Threats
Scenarios where this skill is critical.