• This class will cover the following strategies: Handrails, Catch Features, Collecting Features, Attack Points, Pace Counting, Map Handling, Trail running, and Quick Compass Use.
• Definitions
  • Handrails
    • Linear feature parallel to your course
    • Stream, Ridge, Vegetation boundary, Trail
  • Catch Features
    • A feature that tells you that you have gone far enough
      • A handrail sideways
    • You need a catch feature if you will be going through a featureless area.
  • Collecting Features
    • A group of features that signal to you that you are approaching your destination or help you locate your position along your route.
  • Attack Points
    • A prominent feature near the control
  • Pace Counting (All the time, especially if you don’t have a catch feature.)
    • Practice keeping it going all the time until you can count in the background and still think.
    • Measure the distance between two points and count the paces
    • Note the differences between the different terrain types
    • Adjust your count depending on the terrain
  • Trail running – always identify how you will get off the trail before you decide to use one.
• Put those skills together to Locate an advanced control 
  • The first thing you do is locate where you are and where you are going.
    • Study the area around the control and find a close-by identifiable point
    • Identify if there is a favored approach
    • Find the most direct way. Then identify any obstacles and the best way to go around them.
    • Choose a route keeping a lookout for the navigational features we discussed.
    • When you get to the last hundred meters Slow Down
  • Map Handling
    • Keep the map oriented as you turn around
    • Single fold the map
    • Keep your thumb on your location
    • Move it as you run – count and move it 100m at a time.
    • If you have to keep forcing the map to look right, you probably aren’t where you think you are.
  • Quick Compass Use
    • Keeping the map oriented and compass on your thumb notice that the arrow is pointing north whenever you are on a straightaway
    • Aiming Off
      • Setting a course deliberately to one side of where you want to go along a catch feature so you will know which way to turn.
    • Stay on course, by locating a distant tree or feature, then taking a new bearing when you get there.
•  If you want to practice these skills in a class you should sign up for one of our half day classes. The dates are on our schedule, and the classes are included in your membership.

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