Dead reckoning is the process of getting from one place to another using only your distance covered and direction travelled. You use your compass for the direction and a combination of pacing and timing for the distance. This technique is one that needs to be practised but it is essential for navigating at night or in poor visibility.
- Start from a confirmed location.
- Measure the distance and direction that you need to go from the map.
- Work out your timing/pacing so you know how long/many paces it will take to get there.
- Set your compass and walk on that bearing for the measured amount of time.
- Once you are there, confirm your location with other features on the map/ground.
The further you travel with dead reckoning then the more chance of error but it can be an effective means of navigation when practised well.
