Quick Answer
For airborne survival situations, an ideal compass should have a compact size, high accuracy, and ability to withstand extreme temperatures and water exposure. Look for a compass with a rotating bezel, luminous markings, and a durable case. The Suunto A-10 or Silva Ranger are suitable options.
Choosing the Right Compass
When selecting a compass for airborne survival situations, consider the environment you’ll be in and the activities you’ll be performing. A compass with a rotating bezel is essential for accurate navigation. A Suunto A-10, for example, has a rotating bezel with 3-degree increments and is designed to withstand extreme temperatures.
Key Features to Look For
A good compass for airborne survival should have luminous markings for low-light navigation, a magnifying glass for orienting the map, and a durable case that can withstand rough handling. The Silva Ranger, for instance, has luminous markings and a rotating bezel with 2-degree increments. When using your compass, always keep it level and ensure the direction-of-travel arrow is pointing towards the direction you want to go.
Using Your Compass in the Field
When using your compass in the field, always reference your map to ensure you’re moving in the right direction. To do this, place your map on a flat surface and align the map’s grid lines with the compass’s direction-of-travel arrow. Then, rotate the map until the compass needle points towards magnetic north. From there, you can adjust your course as needed.
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