What is wrong when my field compass points South instead of North as it should?
Most probably your compass has been too close to a permanent magnet. By storing a compass close to a permanent magnet can effect permanently the accuracy. If your compass has shifted by 180 degrees, it can be re-magnetised at Suunto service.
How can I use a field compass by itself?
If you are traveling towards a visible landmark, e.g. a distant hill or mountain peak, you may need to set your compass to point in its direction. This will enable you to hold your course even if the object is not always visible.
1. Sight the landmark along the directional arrow on the base plate, holding the compass in a horizontal position.
2. Keeping the object on the line, turn the compass capsule until the North-South arrow on the capsule points in the same direction as the red end of the compass needle. The bearing is now set on your compass.
3. Line up the North-South arrow directly under the red end of the compass needle every time you check your travel direction.
Note: Precise results or directions require the use of a mirror compass (e.g. Suunto MC-2) which allows you to aim at the landmark, and see the north-south arrow and the magnetic needle at the same time. Professional hand-bearing instruments with an optical sight are also available.
How can I use a field compass with a map?
1. Place the compass on the map so that the long edge connects the starting point with the desired destination. The directional arrow should point to the place of destination.
2. Turn the capsule until its North-South lines are parallel with the magnetic meridian lines on the map. The North-South arrow on the capsule should point to the map's North.
3. Hold the compass horizontally in front of you with the directional arrow pointing straight ahead. Rotate your body until the red North end of the compass needle lines up directly above, and points in the same direction as, the capsule's North-South arrow. Now read the travel direction along the directional arrow.
How can I triangulate a position?
Using the triangulation method, you are able to determine your exact location in the wilderness or on the open sea. The procedure will work if the magnetic meridians are drawn on the map.
1. Find a suitable place where two distinct objects can be found in the landscape as well as on the map. Determine a bearing on the first landmark and place the compass on the map so that the long edge touches the object on the map.
2. Keeping the object steady on the edge of the compass, pivot the whole compass around the object until the North-South lines on the bottom of the capsule are parallel to the magnetic meridian lines on the map. Check that the North-South arrow is pointing to the letter "N" at the top of the magnetic meridians. Remember not to turn the capsule while pivoting the compass!
3. When your compass is in the right position, hold the compass base firmly on the map and draw a line on the map along the compass edge so that the object is on that line. Repeat the procedure with another visible landmark. Your current position on the map is where these two lines intersect. If possible, use a third object to check the result. (The third line on the map should meet the other lines at the same intersection point.)