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AR15.COM
11/23/2010 3:45:02 PM EDT
I'm interested in (re)learning how to use a map and compass.  It's been 25 years since I've used one and I'm sure I've forgotten all I once knew.  What would be the best book to get for getting started as if I know nothing at all (because I probably don't)?

Thanks.
11/23/2010 5:00:40 PM EDT
[#1]
Boy Scout merit badge book.  Easy to use and has taught MILLIONS how to use a map and compass.
11/23/2010 5:06:12 PM EDT
[#2]
Not sure about any particular book but you might want to check out a club near you.  I have never been to a meet, but the ones here advertise for beginners they give a basic class which last about 30 minutes.  

Funny you mentioned this though, I just bought a UTM grid reader today at REI, was thinking of getting a topo map of a national forest not far from the house to practice some.

Merit Badge Handbook





11/23/2010 5:23:42 PM EDT
[#3]
FM 3-25  

FM 3-25
11/23/2010 7:25:03 PM EDT
[#4]
I hadn't even thought about the merit badge handbook.  That's how I learned over 25 years ago.  My dad was our scoutmaster and he got some topo maps of my grandparents 2000 acre ranch in the Texas Hill Country and took the troop out there for a weekend of finding shit he had hidden.  Good times.

Looks like good information in the FM-3-25 also.

I have seen some recommendations for this book.  Anyone have any input on it?  
http://www.rei.com/product/803685

I also had not thought of looking for a club or a class.  I'll try to see what's up around here and see if I can get some time if I can find something.

Thanks very much for the information.  It is greatly appreciated.
11/24/2010 6:53:49 AM EDT
[#5]
Quoted:
I hadn't even thought about the merit badge handbook.  That's how I learned over 25 years ago.  My dad was our scoutmaster and he got some topo maps of my grandparents 2000 acre ranch in the Texas Hill Country and took the troop out there for a weekend of finding shit he had hidden.  Good times.

Looks like good information in the FM-3-25 also.

I have seen some recommendations for this book.  Anyone have any input on it?  
http://www.rei.com/product/803685

I also had not thought of looking for a club or a class.  I'll try to see what's up around here and see if I can get some time if I can find something.

Thanks very much for the information.  It is greatly appreciated.


REI has some good classes I understand.
11/24/2010 9:16:01 AM EDT
[#6]
Quoted:
I hadn't even thought about the merit badge handbook.  That's how I learned over 25 years ago.  My dad was our scoutmaster and he got some topo maps of my grandparents 2000 acre ranch in the Texas Hill Country and took the troop out there for a weekend of finding shit he had hidden.  Good times.

Looks like good information in the FM-3-25 also.

I have seen some recommendations for this book.  Anyone have any input on it?  
http://www.rei.com/product/803685

I also had not thought of looking for a club or a class.  I'll try to see what's up around here and see if I can get some time if I can find something.

Thanks very much for the information.  It is greatly appreciated.


the book is a good beginner tool.  but not advanced enough for serious trekking.
11/24/2010 10:37:15 AM EDT
[#7]
Thanks again.

My local REI isn't offering anything, which sucks because it's only a mile from my office.
11/24/2010 10:44:15 AM EDT
[#8]
The book "Be Expert with Map & Compass" is still one of the best around.
11/24/2010 10:50:46 AM EDT
[#9]
Quoted:
The book "Be Expert with Map & Compass" is still one of the best around.


I liked it. Not a bad book.
11/24/2010 1:42:24 PM EDT
[#10]
Quoted:
Quoted:
The book "Be Expert with Map & Compass" is still one of the best around.


I liked it. Not a bad book.


Another vote for the above. Another one I liked is "The Essential Wilderness Navigator"

11/27/2010 9:51:59 AM EDT
[#11]
Some more basics here

http://www.cammenga.com/pdf_assets/CAM_INS_BK.pdf