Instructions for an Engineer Compass

The main point of a compass is a needle which points towards magnetic North, which in most parts of the world can be used as true North. An engineer compass is marked differently to a normal compass with two lines on the face at 45 degrees to each other and is good for navigation in the dark or fog. You can use your engineering compass in conjunction with a map.

  1. Orientate a Map

    • Place your map down on a flat surface. Align the north indicating line on the map with magnetic north on the compass.

    Magnetic Azimuth

    • Set the sight of the compass on an object. Take the azimuth reading (the reading of a direct line across the center of the compass to an object) by reading the degree scale through the lens.

    Find Your Position

    • Point the compass at two characteristic points visible on the terrain and shown on the map. Take an azimuth bearing for each. Take the angle degree reading on the oriented map from the first characteristic point. Take the angle degree reading from the second characteristic point. Draw a line on the map corresponding to each angle. Where the lines intersect on the map is your position.

    Markings Use

    • Turn your compass to face north. Set the direction that you wish to travel in by rotating the glass bezel until the luminous line is aligned to the desired degree direction. While you are walking keep the compass facing magnetic north and walk in the direction of the luminous line. This will enable you to keep a straight navigation even if it is dark or foggy.