Magnetized Needle: The red end of your compass needle is the
end that generally points magnetic north. The magnetic north pole is
usually the strongest magnetic force around. Keep in mind that a magnetic
compass can be affected by other magnetic fields. You need to be aware
that magnetic north is different from true north. True north and magnetic
north are about 1,000 miles apart. Have someone teach you how to
accomplish declination adjustments.
Liquid-Filled Enclosure: This part of the compass houses the
needle for your compass, the needle's bearing and damping fluid. The liquid
inside the enclosure serves two basic tasks. One is to keep the needle
from jarring about and the other is to help keep the needle from moving
when you are trying to take readings or watching the compass while you are
moving.
Rotating Azimuth Ring: This is the ring that circles the
enclosure of your compass and it is marked with degrees from 0 to 360.
Your azimuth is actually your bearing. You will use your rotating ring to
figure out your bearing, or direction of travel between two points. This
is the first basic skill you should learn when using a map and compass.
Base Plate: The fairly large rectangular piece of plastic that
your actual compass sits on top of is called your base plate. Most, if not
all, are clear plastic so that you can see your map when trying to figure
out your bearing. Most also have a ruler for measuring distance. These
rulers are great when you are trying figure out distance between two
points. You can also use the neck strap to figure out distances on more
curved paths.
Orienting Arrow and Parallel Lines: These lines and arrows are
usually found at the bottom of the compass enclosure underneath the needle
itself. Once you have figured out your bearing you will align your red
arrow with the direction of travel you are looking for. This will help
keep you on the right bearing and moving in the right direction.