Posted: 1/10/2008 1:53:18 PM EDT
| I need a good way to protect a map that folds, much like the field maps infantry troops use. Ive seen surplus and new models, but I wanted some input from others. Whats a good way to store a map in a pack that protects against moisture and damage and is easily accessible? |
+1 I'm in the Infantry and this is how I do it. Another way if you want to spend the money is to go to a copy shop and have them laminate it for you. Just be sure its the thin flexible stuff and not the thick stuff that wont bend or fold. |
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Zip lock bags +1 there is also the wet pruf stuff that you can wipe on and let it dry. The forest rangers here use their maps so much they actually cut them where they fold so as not to lose that part of the map and then apply them to what I beleive is linen cloth. They say they last a long time like that, otherwise they'd get a year or two out of one. The biggest threat to a map is water and using it while it's wet. They'll tear so easy like that. I just fold mine to fit in a gallon size zip lock. Fold the margins back (the white part), fold the map in half lenthwise, then IIRC in thirds. This way I can flip it so any sixth of the map is visable for my current needs. I've got maps that are 20+ years old like this. I don't plot courses on mine like training exercises in the .mil, I simply am looking for features most of the time and am terrain associating. I mostly can look and say I need to walk through that draw and turn left up the intermittent creek to the back pond to go trout fishing in the dead of summer. Not much need to pace count in the day light. If I really F up, I pull out the GPS  . |
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I like to have them laminated at the local school supply store. I also have two map cases left over from my time in the Army. One is camouflage on the outside, and has pouches for pens, protractor, etc. The other is made I believe by the company that makes dry bags, it's really nice and watertight. For long term storage, I would LOVE to have a flat mapcase like a library has... I just keep mine rolled up in the cardboard shipping tube they came in when I ordered them. |