Aug
20

Navigational Tools of the Trade

Chris on August 20th, 2009

1. Compass When selecting a compass for navigating in the backcountry, there are a number of features that are necessary. Primarily, you absolutely must be able to accurately shoot an azimuth.  I prefer mirror compasses for this purpose.  If you look at the geologist’s transit, it has a mirror sighting mechanism.  I’ve found that I [...]

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Aug
20

Navigation Links – useful information for backcountry / cross country travel

Chris on August 20th, 2009

These are some websites that I find very useful.  The first site gives you sunrise and sunset data, which is essential information.  Navigating at night adds a whole new array of difficulty.  The second site allows you to find out the current magnetic declination for a location. US Navel Oceanography Portal Complete Sun and Moon [...]

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Aug
17

Back Azimuth – how to calculate and why you need to know

Chris on August 17th, 2009

How A back azimuth is very easy to calculate in degrees.  First, shoot your azimuth.  Then, calculate according to the following rules: IF YOUR AZIMUTH IS Less than 180 degrees, then add 180 degrees to get your back azimuth Greater than 180 degrees, then subtract 180 degrees to get your back azimuth Exactly 180 degrees, [...]

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Aug
14

Probabilistic risk assessment in developing a first aid kit

Chris on August 14th, 2009

I use a probabilistic risk assessment model for my first aid kits.  I keep track of my injuries and illnesses during my trips, and then start to determine what illness and injury I’m likely to face, what things I need to handle those situations, and what the outcome would be if I could not handle [...]

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Jul
29

Pace counting

Chris on July 29th, 2009

Why and how When navigating in difficult areas, particularly “cross-country” or “off-trail” you must be absolutely certain of your location.  GPS has made this easy, but if your GPS unit fails, you should have the skills to navigate using your map and compass. To start, you will be using “vectors”.  A vector is a mathematical [...]

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Jul
29

Preparing your maps for field use

Chris on July 29th, 2009

Topographic maps are the first thing you should buy when preparing for a trip into the field. Buy these maps well in advance of a trip so that you have time to do two things; study the area you plan to explore, and prepare the map for rough environments.

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