compass settings on gps units?

[+FIREWALKER438]

New to this Geocaching, whats the better GPS compass setting, "true" or "magnetic"?

[+W7WT]

I have mine set for TRUE, as the maps are set up that way. However, I don't think it makes much difference as the needle will point to the cache no matter what you have it set to. If you are also using a magnetic compass to orient yourself, it might be best to set it to magnetic. Here on the West coast we have around a 18 to 20° difference between the two. I assume you are in Florida and I don't think the variation is that much. I am sure others will come on and give you their views. Welcome to Geocaching. Dick, W7WT

[+StarBrand]

Makes no difference whatsoever to most Geocaches. That only really comes into play on offset caches that tell you something like "the cache is 199 feet at a heading of 124" - now you need to know if the 124 is from true or magnetic north.

[+FIREWALKER438]

Makes no difference whatsoever to most Geocaches. That only really comes into play on offset caches that tell you something like "the cache is 199 feet at a heading of 124" - now you need to know if the 124 is from true or magnetic north.

 

Thanks for the help

JCTH

[+FIREWALKER438]

I have mine set for TRUE, as the maps are set up that way. However, I don't think it makes much difference as the needle will point to the cache no matter what you have it set to. If you are also using a magnetic compass to orient yourself, it might be best to set it to magnetic. Here on the West coast we have around a 18 to 20° difference between the two. I assume you are in Florida and I don't think the variation is that much. I am sure others will come on and give you their views. Welcome to Geocaching. Dick, W7WT

 

Thanks for the help

JCTH

[+Markwell]

A quick little article that could answer some questions.