COMPASS

Self reliance in hiking navigation is part of scout training. It is much easier to become proficient, if the scout has with him his own map and compass.

Aquila scouts use Silva-type compasses, and only this and similar makes are recommended. We do not use prismatic compasses. There are several Silva models and now many brands to may be similar. They each have a transparent, rectangular base plate, with the compass needle in a rotating dial. This should have divisions of 2 degrees.

Silva and Suumto are expensive brands, but MUCH less easily broken. I expect there are other makes that may be as good. The very cheap ones are cheap plastic: the better ones have a perspex-like base plate that is robust. In addition the cheapest are air filled - that means the needle is undamped and swings around a lot, making accurate reading difficult-to-impossible. The better ones have liquid filling, so the needle moves more slowly.

Attach a brightly coloured cord so that the compass can be worn around the neck and will be more easily found if dropped. A good compass should last many years, if not sat on or lost.

MAP

Scouts navigate using Ordnance Survey maps and the best way to learn is to have their own map, hung around their neck in a waterproof case. Usually we use 1:25,000 Explorer Maps. These are available at many book and camping shops.

WATER BOTTLE AND LUNCH BOX

These are on a separate page.