Ozark Trail Map Compass: It Could Save Your Life

In my experience as a semi-world traveler a map compass can sure be handy in a pinch. I recall the training I received on how to use a map compass. It is pretty simple and if used in the right way can help you navigate towards a safe haven or to civilization.

A map compass can be used when camping or hiking in the outdoors. It can be invaluable in a survival situation. As a matter of fact the compass has guided many many people toward safe haven. It is used in war by soldiers, and in peace by, well, everyone. It is safe to say that learning how to use a compass is not a bad idea. Not to sound too paranoid but the times they are a changin'.

I am just putting that out there.

The Ozark Trail Map Compass is a good beginning to a happy end. It is widely distributed here in the U.S. and abroad. I purchased mine at the local Wal Mart for a very reasonable price. It presents itself as a well-made instrument, although clearly not as high-quality as those offered to the military.

However this compass from Ozark Trails proved to be handy in a trial I gave it a few weeks ago in New Mexico. I placed myself in a remote mesa at the foot of a trail leading up to the Manzano Mountains. I then followed the instructions on the package of the Ozark Trail compass.

It says to: Place the compass on map with edge along the desired line of travel(These are illustrated on the reverse of the package) Rotate the capsule until the 'N' on the compass dial points to magnetic North on the map...pick up the compass and turn your body until the red end of the needle points to North on the compass dial."

I did so and found this task easy to accomplish.

"...The "direction of travel" arrow in the base now points precisely to your direction. Choose a landmark or spot . Choose a landmark or a spot in this direction. Walk to the landmark without looking at the compass and repeat the procedure until you reach your destination"

It all sounds a bit complicated but if you pull out a map and practice with this compass you will get a good understanding of how it works.

In a nutshell this compass provides situational awareness to those who desire it or need it in emergency situations. Surely there are now GPS systems which prevail the use of the map compass but in a world where suddenly there were no satellites or electricity etc. the old compass would still work. And in the modern world of today the compass continues to be useful. It is there when needed, like a good friend it can lead you out of the wilderness if you ask it to.