Navigation in the conditions of a hike or a long journey is impossible without a compass. Despite the development of technologies, the availability of functional GPS navigators, smartphones with loaded maps, the relevance of magnetic devices remains unchanged. Of course, if you follow a proven route or have a trip planned for several days, then you can do without it. But for the most part, a compass and a map are extremely necessary when navigating the terrain.
A bit of history
The first analogues of the compass were used by the ancient Chinese to locate houses according to the philosophy of feng shui. They were based on knowledge about the magnetic poles of our planet. With the help of a magnet, ancient people determined the sides of the world and built and furnished their houses accordingly.
In the 13th century, the magnet was brought to Europe, where a primitive prototype of today's compass was created on its basis. For its production was used:
- Magnetized needle;
- The rod on which the actual needle was installed;
- A small box with a glass lid.
And only in 1933, the Kjellström brothers, the founders of the Silva company, developed the first liquid compass of its kind. The liquid inside made it possible to stabilize the needle faster (4 seconds vs. 30 seconds) and make it easier to use for navigation. It is worth noting that it is the Silva models that have become the benchmark for accuracy and ease of use.
In 1960, a strap was added to the liquid model. This greatly facilitated its use by climbers – it was no longer necessary to remove gloves and take the device out of the pocket every time.
Please note that the liquid used is non-freezing. This makes it possible to use the compass in any weather.
1981 was marked by the entry into the market of a marine device for navigation. This is an electronic device that takes into account swaying on waves in its work.
How does a compass work and what does it consist of?
The main task of the magnetic device is very simple - to show where the north is. In this regard, you orient yourself: the south will be behind you, the west will be on the left, and the east will be on the right.
Having determined the sides of the world, you can find your way around where you are and where you need to go.
The main elements of the magnetic device are:
- Arrow with a magnetized tip. This is the main "indicator" for navigation. The magnetic arrow always points to the north pole of the planet. It is made of steel. Silva uses Swedish steel to manufacture the needle and a sapphire bearing to hold it in place. Also, the sapphire bearing ensures smooth rotation and long service life.
- Case and scale with 5-15 degree divisions. In high-quality models, strong plastic is used for the case. And so that the marks do not fade, Silva, for example, uses hot embossing technology.
- Liquid that does not freeze is used for quick stabilization of the arrow and smooth rotation. It fills the entire internal volume. The Silva company has patented its unique mixture, which is not afraid of cold and does not evaporate.
- The scale or limb is the base of the compass with markings on it. The accuracy of navigation depends on how correctly it is performed. Depending on the manufacturer and model, the minimum step on the scale can be from 1 to 15 degrees. The smaller the marking step, the more correct and accurate the route can be laid.
- Direction arrow. When the magnetic needle points north, the direction needle on Silva compasses "leads" in the right direction.,A clinometer is used in some models to determine the angle of inclination. Such options are chosen, for example, for freeride. They allow you to "read" the terrain and determine the avalanche danger of areas.
Types of compasses
Depending on the functionality, conditions of use and final purpose, models are distinguished for:
Outdoor activities. Tablet options are suitable for this. The body of the device is fixed on a base plate with a scale ruler and a pointing arrow. They allow you to read the map in more detail than ordinary compasses. Such options are in demand in expeditions, complex long hikes. Less often, they are used for rogaines and sports competitions. The Swiss brand Silva has two lines EXPEDITION, RANGER, which are great for such purposes. For long adventures and navigation in difficult conditions, the manufacturer recommends paying attention to them.
For sports orientation. There are two types: wrist models and thumb models. "Thumb compass" or on the finger - more compact, allow you to quickly orientate yourself on the terrain, differ in minimal weight. SILVYA offers ARC JET, ARC ZOOM series for rogaines.
For boats and water sports that operate in conditions of constant rocking on waves. They have a smooth movement of the arrow. Depending on the conditions of use, there are models for motor boats, kayaks, speed boats, those that are built into the instrument panel and those that are built into the hull.
How to use a compass?
The main, and perhaps the main, advantage of the magnetic compass over other methods of navigation is its independence from energy sources. After all, a smartphone with loaded cards can discharge, the GPS navigator also needs to replace the battery or batteries. And with a compass, you don't need to worry that your device will lose the satellite signal or its mobile network will "drop out". He is completely independent of it. Add to this compact dimensions and minimal weight - and you get a fail-safe device for navigation in the most difficult and unpredictable conditions.
Only minimal knowledge, map reading and terrain skills are required to use a magnetic device to determine your location.
Manufacturer Silva suggests using a three-step system to determine your location and plan your next route:
Step 1
You will need a map and a compass. Align the compass with the arrow so that it points clearly to the north. Next, we lay out the map so that the meridian lines on the map are parallel to the magnetic arrow.
Step 2
We determine our location by matching conventional designations on the map (river, forest, valleys) and what is around you.
Step 3
On the map, we determine the destination where we need to go (population, checkpoint, intermediate point of the route). Next, draw a straight line from your location to the specified point. For convenience, you can use the direction arrow on the compass. It may be necessary to turn around its axis. It is important that the magnetic arrow points to the north, and the pointer - to our direction.
It is recommended to use waypoints and periodically check your direction with the map. In the form of intermediate points, there can be large objects, mountains, river valleys.
By following these simple recommendations, you can easily find your way around the area.
Where in the modern world is a compass used?
A compass will come in handy not only on a difficult expedition or at sea, where there are no landmarks. It can also be used:
- For sports competitions in tourism, rogaines, trail running. Such competitions involve passing control points (CPs) marked on detailed maps. Using a thumb compass and a map, you can easily find your way around the area and determine the direction vector.
- Winter sports far from civilization (freeriding, ski touring, winter hiking) take place on snowy terrain. Landmarks that are in the warm period of the year are covered by snow and it is difficult to find your way around in such conditions, everything is white around, there may be fog, blizzard, strong wind. A reliable device is required for navigation in such conditions. It can also be GPS, but their cost in the modern market is quite high. Another disadvantage of trackers is the dependence on the power source. It is necessary to take with you replaceable batteries, power banks. All this forms excessive weight of the equipment. In order not to get lost in the winter mountains, you can use a compass and a detailed map of the area. It is better to pay attention to models with a built-in tilt meter of the Expedition series from Silva. This will help calculate the slope angle and the probability of an avalanche.
- Marine compasses are recommended for open water adventures such as kayaking, yachting. Their soft bracket stably holds the limb in a horizontal position. The cases of such models are protected from moisture and do not sink in water.
- During tactical exercises, the military studies the terrain on topographic maps. The compass later allows you to quickly find your way around the place.
- During combat, when it is not possible to charge electronic navigation accessories, the compass is an irreplaceable partner.
If you're planning an exciting road trip or weekend hike, always think about how to navigate. Even if you are confident in your smartphone or navigator, you always need a plan B. To do this, just put a compass and a map of the area in your backpack. They will help you quickly navigate where you are and where to go next if the electronic gadget fails.
The SMG company is an official importer of compasses and navigation aids from the Swiss brand SILVA.
Silva compasses are the standard of accuracy and reliability in today's market.