Archive for the ‘Compass Handling’ Category
Compass Handling!
Magnetic, Lensatic Compass!
A Lensatic Compass does not require a large amount of maintenance. However, prior to use, it should be inspected for operability, insuring: 1. The sight wire is serviceable and in place; 2. Neither the sight glass or crystal face is broken; 3. The floating dial is not stuck and functions freely/properly.
The compass should be checked periodically to insure it delivers a correct reading. This is done by comparing the applicable compass direction/azimuth reading with the known surveyed data (direction/azimuth) to the same aiming point. If the compass is off more than 3 degrees, it shouldn’t be used. When not in use, the eye lens of the Lensatic Compass should be in the down position, locking/securing the floating dial and also providing protection to the crystal face/rear sight.
Metal objects and electrical sources will adversely affect a magnetic compass reading. Therefore, to preclude this from happening, the following minimum separation distances must be followed:
- Power Lines – 55 meters;
- Vehicles – 18 meters;
- Telephone or Barbed Wire – 10 meters;
- Small Metal Objects (rifle/pistol) – ½ meter.