Bearing Vs. Heading

[derekdoubleut]

Could you please explain in simplest terms the difeerences between heading and bearing?

Thank you.

[+Thot]

They are compass angles. The bearing is the angle between north and the object you are looking for – the cache in our case. The heading is the angle between north and the direction you are moving. If you are walking due east your heading is 90 degrees or 90 for short.

[+rusty_tlc]

So if I'm walking straight toward the cache the bearing and the heading would be the same right?

[+macatac1961]

Correct

[virgo91967]

Now..to muddy the waters a bit. say the object ( cache, truck, buffalo whatever) you are shooting a brearing to is also mocing, this said object has bot a bearing ( angle to it) and heading (angle in which direction it is moving)

 

But for geocaching purposes, thoth is correct

[+NightPilot]

In simplest terms, heading is the direction you're going, and bearing is the direction you want to go. Sometimes they have to diverge, for obstacles, to follow trails, or for whatever reason, but if they are the same, you're heading directly for your destination.

[+Sputnik 57]

For me, finding the cache is always a real bear . My bearing takes me to the cache. If someone asks me where I'm heading , I'm heading on my heading.

 

Kinda dumb, but it helps me keep them straight.

[BassoonPilot]

In simplest terms, heading is the direction you're going, and bearing is the direction you want to go.

Nah, heading is the direction your nose is pointed.

 

Sometimes they have to diverge, for obstacles, to follow trails, or for whatever reason ...

 

Like those pesky "winds aloft." Or that unfordable river.

Edited September 21, 2004 by BassoonPilot

[+rusty_tlc]

For me, finding the cache is always a real bear . My bearing takes me to the cache. If someone asks me where I'm heading , I'm heading on my heading.

 

Kinda dumb, but it helps me keep them straight.

I like little tricks that help me remember.

[+smullis]

On my Magellan, heading is the direction the GPS is pointing. Course Over Ground (COG) is the direction I'm moving...just a little more mud to clear things up.

[+Thot]

On my Magellan, heading is the direction the GPS is pointing.

Hmm . . .? My Magellan SporTrack manual says to point the unit up for best reception. Does this mean my heading is always up?

[gm100guy]

On my Lowrance there is 3 readings you get.

 

Course: the bearing from where you are to where you need to to go when you first hit the navigate to waypoint.

 

Bearing: After you start moving it is the bearing you need to be heading to stay on the course. And get to the waypoint.

 

Track: The bearing you are heading on at the present time.