Translations:Adventist Youth Honors Answer Book/Recreation/Orienteering (General Conference)/11/en
The techniques employed to find the magnetic azimuth when using the lensatic compass are as follows:
Using the Centerhold Technique
First, open the compass to its fullest so that the cover forms a straightedge with the base. Move the lens (rear sight) to the rearmost position, allowing the dial to float freely. Next, place your thumb through the thumb loop, form a steady base with your third and fourth fingers, and extend your index finger along the side of the compass. Place the thumb of the other hand between the lens (rear sight) and the bezel ring; extend the index finger along the remaining side of the compass, and the remaining fingers around the fingers of the other hand. Pull your elbows firmly into your sides; this will place the compass between your chin and your belt. To measure an azimuth, simply turn your entire body toward the object, pointing the compass cover directly at the object. Once you are pointing at the object, look down and read the azimuth from beneath the fixed black index line. This preferred method offers the following advantages over the sighting technique:
- It is faster and easier to use.
- It can be used under all conditions of visibility.
- It can be used when navigating over any type of terrain.
- It can be used without putting down other gear; however, any other gear must be slung back out of the way.
- It can be used without removing eyeglasses.
Using the Compass-to-Cheek Technique
The compass-to-cheek technique is used almost exclusively for sighting, and it is the best technique for this purpose.
