Compass Reading 101

[+golffox]

Hi! I'm new to geocaching and tried my first find today with my iPhone geocaching app. Unfortunately, I couldn't find it. My iPhone compass said I was 4 feet away at one point but I don't know how to read a compass so didn't know which direction to turn. Anyone know of any good websites to teach compass reading? Thanks!

[+DeadHead82]

Here are a couple that helped me brush up when I got my Suunto M3

 

http://www.ussartf.org/compass_basics.htm

 

http://www.learn-orienteering.org/old/

 

It's pretty simple once you get the hang of it, but it can be confusing for a novice. Good luck and enjoy!

 

All the best.

[+fegan]

Hi! I'm new to geocaching and tried my first find today with my iPhone geocaching app. Unfortunately, I couldn't find it. My iPhone compass said I was 4 feet away at one point but I don't know how to read a compass so didn't know which direction to turn. Anyone know of any good websites to teach compass reading? Thanks!

Suggestion...

 

Since a GPS is only accurate to about 10 feet, at that distance (4 feet) a compass really isn't necessary...just put down your GPS (iPhone) and use your geosense to locate the cache. In fact, once the GPS reads about 20 feet that's what you should be doing.

[+StarBrand]

The iphone along with virtually all handheld GPS units is only accurate to within 15 to 25 feet under most condtions. Add your error to the possible error of the hider and you could well find yourself searching for the cache up to 50 feet away from where your unit says ground zero is at. Very often you will find it within 20 feet but you should be prepared to widen your search. Once you get within 20 feet - put the gPS away and start searching for likely hiding spots. If you still can't find the cache - back away from the area in several directions and re approach to make sure you are in the right area.

 

Also keep in mind that caches an and will go missing from time to time.