Compasses typically feature two distinct arrows, each serving a crucial and separate function in navigation: one for pointing towards your intended direction of travel, and another for orienting the compass with a map. This design allows for precise planning and execution of routes, whether you're hiking, snowmobiling, or simply exploring.
The Direction-of-Travel Arrow
The direction-of-travel arrow is a prominent arrow often painted or molded onto the base plate of the compass. Its primary purpose is to help you align your body and your compass towards your destination.
- Function: This arrow is used to point the compass directly at the location you intend to go. Once you've set your bearing (the direction you want to travel), you rotate your body until the magnetic needle (the part that points north) aligns correctly within the orienting arrow (explained below). The direction-of-travel arrow will then be pointing precisely in the direction you need to walk.
- Practical Use: When navigating across terrain, you'll pick a landmark in the distance that lines up with this arrow and walk towards it. This ensures you maintain your intended course.
The Orienting Arrow
The orienting arrow, also known as the orienting box or orienting lines, is located within the rotating housing of the compass. Its role is to help you align your compass with a map and determine your bearing.
- Function: This arrow, often accompanied by parallel lines inside the compass housing, is used to "orient" your compass to a map. When using a map, you place the compass on it, align the orienting arrow and lines with the north-south grid lines on the map, and then rotate the compass housing until the magnetic needle (pointing north) aligns perfectly with the orienting arrow. This process ensures that the map is correctly aligned with the actual terrain.
- Practical Use:
- Taking a Bearing: To find the bearing from your current location to a destination on a map, you draw an imaginary line between the two points. Then, you align the orienting arrow with the map's north lines and rotate the compass housing until the magnetic needle points north. The degree reading on the compass dial at the direction-of-travel arrow will be your bearing.
- Following a Bearing: Once you have a bearing, you rotate the entire compass until the magnetic needle aligns with the orienting arrow. The direction-of-travel arrow will then point you in the correct direction on the ground.
Summary of Compass Arrows
To clarify the distinct roles of these two essential components, here's a quick overview:
| Arrow Type | Location on Compass | Primary Function | How It's Used |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direction-of-Travel | Base Plate | Points towards your desired destination. | Align with a distant landmark or your walking path. |
| Orienting Arrow | Needle Housing | Aligns the compass with a map's grid lines/north. | Align with the magnetic needle to set or follow a bearing. |
By understanding and utilizing both the direction-of-travel arrow and the orienting arrow, you can effectively navigate diverse environments, plan routes, and stay on course.
