Land Navigation Demonstration on How to Use a Map and Compass

[@robertgoss4842]

I learned about Land Nav in the Marine Corps. It was incredibly empowering. And though it was 50 years ago, I remember my first Land Nav experience vividly. It was at Camp Pendleton, CA. We had both day and night movement problems, and I found, to my delight, that I had a real knack for navigating with a map and a lensatic compass. It was the most fun I'd had in my young life. I seemed to grasp the intricacies of Land Nav almost instantly, and found myself coaching other Marines. What a thrill that was!

[@STOKERMATIC]

🦅🌎⚓️

[@nickschuster7618]

Semper Fi brother. Went thru the same course in 2012. Man those hills are fun!

[@ppspsd]

WOW!! I really hope everyone in the class realizes what effort and time it took to make this video!! Thanks brother!! I'm really enjoying all of your Land Navigation videos!!! STAY STOKED!!!🤘

[@friendoflife2416]

Always happy when you get back to your truck!

[@STOKERMATIC]

So happy!

[@HectorReviews]

Best wilderness navigation video on KZbin! Thank you sir!

[@mike.weinberg1952]

Very engaging and informative tutorial! As you acknowledged in your replies to earlier comments, at about 14:25 in the video you measured 338 degrees on the map to Ranger Lake but said and wrote 138 in your notebook. After subtracting 15 degrees of declination, you got 123 degrees, which you attempted to follow in the field later in the video. One thing that can help avoid similar mistakes is to relate degrees to a clock face. Dividing 360 degrees around the clock by 12 hours = 30 degrees for every hour. Therefore, 30 degrees would be 1 o'clock, 60 degrees would be 2 o'clock, etc. So 123 degrees would point to about 4 o'clock (4 x 30 = 120) and you would know that Ranger Lake was in the opposite (303 degrees ~10 o'clock) direction. Before taking a map or field bearing, it helps to estimate about what clock hour the direction of travel points to then make sure that agrees with the measured bearing.

[@STOKERMATIC]

Good stuff.

[@juliusdro]

I used to live in western Wa now live in the good side of the state ( Yakima county) I sure DON'T miss the undergrowth you took us thru THANKS much I follow you on learning the mysteries of map orienting you've help alot take care

[@sirarnie9837]

I was in the Army too, but I never had to do a lot of Land Nav while I was in, so this was a good refresher. Thank you for taking the time to make it. Also, I was recently practicing some land nav at my local park. And apparently someone called the cops on me, they thought I was pointing a gun around. Luckily the responding officers were veterans and knew exactly what I was doing. And we all just laughed about. Cammenga does sell a hot pink colored compass, so I might have to get it to avoid this situation again. Lol.

[@STOKERMATIC]

Glad it was helpful. I have a similar story about doing some PT after I got out, small town USA, former Marine doing some calisthenics off the road- old man said “I thought you was a terrorist” LOL!

[@mickd6942]

I hope no politicians read that or they’ll be calling for tighter compass control lol

[@simaoduarte6861]

Jack London wrote a book called "Call of the Wild" and for a reason, I can relate to that book. In fact, Jack London and Henry David Thoreau ( with his book "Walden") are two magnificent authors that awake my wilderness spirit for the past 2/3 months. Finding your KZbin channel made me learn so much more about cartography, orientation, and survival. Keep up with the magnificent knowledge you have been providing from you to us all. I am very well appreciated. Greeting from Portugal! Stay safe!

[@STOKERMATIC]

Some great authors right there Simao! Thanks for sharing them and giving us all some ideas for something to pick up and read - or let them read us! Glad to hear the content is resonating on your side of the ocean! Stay safe as well!

[@dwaynerobertson383]

Man oh man, what an excellent field tutorial! Seriously. Exactly what I have been looking for to connect all the dots in one vid like you did right here. WOW. Lots of great videos out there, but not in such a full package as this job. Been learning how to do the 6 and 8 digit grid co-ordinates recently and it is so cool to see it laid out in simple terms, step by step; plotting/protractor, coursing and the distances, studying the layout, dealing with physical changes when you arrive upon them. For the most part, not terribly difficult steps to understand but, like in music, forget one sharp or flat (or add too many), and it is all off! Many simple steps but so simple to create or not recognize a simple error. This video is a huge confidence builder. HUGE! Thank you so much for sharing these skills - the map and pad, the compass details and the physical examples of the entire route. Cheers, Stoker!!

[@STOKERMATIC]

Dwayne, glad you enjoyed it!

[@gratefullyobliged3947]

In SERE Selection NOW. Headed to the Field tomorrow. Thanks for all the tips. Watched 5 or 6 videos today while packing and prepping. Wish I found you a few months ago.

[@STOKERMATIC]

ATB to you amigo! Glad the content has helped you out. You got this!!

[@DingChavez86]

Thanks man. It took me about 4 straight hours to watch this video. I kept pausing in order to do everything step-by-step. A lot of value here.

[@ericstephenson145]

Excellent content. I was an 11A in the Army. Still do a lot of hiking and backpacking in my home state of Colorado. Have used a Suunto global compass for several years, but recently found my old Cammenga and wanted to refresh my technique. Did a search and found your channel. Wish I'd had this resource when I was going into the Army! Thanks

[@STOKERMATIC]

Glad our paths crossed!

[@Cbryer101]

Great course and well taught. If you don't feel confident in the wilderness, you will once you learn these techniques. One hour here can absolutely save your ass.

[@STOKERMATIC]

Chris, thanks brother! Hope all is well with you!

[@Cbryer101]

@@STOKERMATIC All is well, thank you! It shocks me that people go into wild areas without maps or map skills.

[@fernandoluisguilloty8747]

What an excellent field trip for those who wants to do a real land navigation. That give you an idea how difficult is to navigate in the jungle or desert. (With no reference points or hand rail). Excellent work my friend. Keep up the good work.

[@STOKERMATIC]

Glad you enjoyed it brother!

[@Adrenalinez06]

I’ve watched a lot of land nav videos in an effort to improve my confidence navigating in the woods. To date, this one was the best. Pretty much everything you need to know, as well as many helpful and vital tips. Thanks a lot!

[@stevemerusi1070]

This video helped me so much when preparing for a State SAR exam. Thanks

[@jamesashford6111]

I enjoy the fact that I am old school army & know this stuff. I love, love, love doing land nav. 🤗. Thanks for such a great video!

[@STOKERMATIC]

Appreciate it James!

[@EngineersQuest]

I'm not sure if I'm officially old school Army, lol! 1989 count?

[@redtango75]

Fantastic and absolutely packed full of knowledge. So much better than someone talking in front of a whiteboard. Thank you. Thumbs up and subscribed!

[@rdaugherty52]

Thanks Stoker got a new compass coming a Suunto mc2 got my ranger beads and my pace count is 77 paces for 100 meters that's on flat ground I need to check on rough terrain and with a pack but watching your videos is a big help your much appreciated 😀

[@STOKERMATIC]

Awesome! Thanks for that feedback - continue to master your craft!

[@joshgillming6387]

My oldest is going into the Army after graduation. I struggled with learning land nav when I was in the Army, so I showed him your video. You are a MUCH better teacher than I am. Lol. This is a great refresher do me as well! Ft. Benning 1999 was a long time ago.

[@IronSharpensIron127]

Hail O Hail O infantry Queen of battle follow me!!

[@jonathane8585]

Perfect refresher video for me right before I report to WOCS. Thank you!

[@tomcreekdevil5967]

Excellent video to get the full deal on land nav. I watched it twice, paused, and watched sections again and again. Panic azimuth was a new concept and I see its usefulness. Attack points I didn't fully understand until now.

[@davidnickell9381]

Very good demonstration, including when things aren't what they are supposed to be.

[@CamtheMac]

THIS WAS VERY HELPFUL! I AM TRYING TO PREPARE FOR SFAS AND IT IS GIVING ME EXCELLENT GUIDANCE! THANK YOU!

[@1Ladybuilder]

Excellent tutorial. Brought back my memories from surveying and orienteering. Also learned a lot regarding waypoints. THANKS!!!

[@xrplazarus4842]

I just bought my first compass. Thanks for helping me learn it! Wish I had a friend like you to navigate with, you seem like a fun guy

[@STOKERMATIC]

Do what I can! 👊🇺🇸

[@jeffstull2534]

Thanks for the tutorial...great stuff. It's always good to brush up on land nav.

[@STOKERMATIC]

Thanks Jeff! USGS is the best site. Have a video on navigating their website. Others are good too, CalTopo is a fav of many. It’s really about finding the platform you can use.

[@ruggioruggione6920]

I'm very impressed to say the least. You're an individual with so much practical and tested knowledge in the field that you teach. I'm very lucky to have stumbled on here. Nothing but learning very cool things from this point on.

[@STOKERMATIC]

Awesome, glad you navigated your way here!

[@donaldburton6869]

What a great video! I really like it when you take it outside and actually do what you are saying. It is way more interesting. We can all relate by watching you do it. Keep them coming please.

[@STOKERMATIC]

👊

[@jameschancey251]

Well done,sir.Informative and interesting.

[@STOKERMATIC]

Thanks brother!

[@drpeemac]

Man you are really out of this world great teaching man...!!! For some reason your body language is so subdude that one may think is he really...but action speak louder than words...Highly impressed....Highly recommended give this bloke your trust... Greeting from Australia mate...

[@STOKERMATIC]

Awesome man, thank you! Hope all is well with you and your family. 🍺

[@1953Greyfox]

Awesome video, I'll be teaching 10 individuals next month on navigation. It's been over 35 years since I have even touched a compass. You can be assure that I will be watching this video several more times. Thanks

[@STOKERMATIC]

Plenty of shorter ones in my land nav playlist if needed. I think it’s awesome you taking a group out. Nothing beats hands on! Have a GREAT time!!

[@David-nf7mf]

I've been wanting to learn how to safely do this and then DO it! Glad I found your channel! Now I can feel more and more confident to try this for a day or two, combining this with bushcrafting. Thanks for these!

[@stevescott8060]

Always gain knowledge or as a refresher. True to reminding me of Top, Field Chef, and Instructor of Land Navigation, note, knowing this he would say, You can out maneuver anyone. Good points are made and a very important one is Man, Things Change, and Brother I agree!

[@kenmvilla]

Probably the most comprehensive land nav vid on YT. Goes over pretty much everything important when working with map and compass. Pretty much a concise version of what you get in basic training. My only question - not a fan of ranger beads?

[@STOKERMATIC]

Never was a fan of them to be honest.

[@mickd6942]

So many useful techniques in one video

[@Gabor.Bujdoso]

After watching several similar videos and getting totally confused, I'm glad I found your channel! Finally someone explaining this in a clear and precise way. Great content, you got a new subscriber! Greetings from Hungary!

[@STOKERMATIC]

Awesome to have you Gabor! I'm so Stoked that the content has helped you - feel free let me know either in comment, email, or thru my Patreon if there's anything you need more specific help with. Stay Stoked!

[@matthewaustin2578]

I'm planning to take a two day land nav course that's coming up this winter. Not only has going back and watching all your videos on the subject been very helpful, it has gotten me excited for the class. Now I'm stoked!

[@maxschaefer7145]

Hey awesome video. The portion where you explain overcoming an obstacle was a fantastic demonstration. Thanks!

[@STOKERMATIC]

Glad it was helpful!!

[@augreich]

Thank you for refreshing my memory on landnav. It's been a while since my Marine Corps days. New Sub.

[@STOKERMATIC]

🦅🌎⚓️

[@augreich]

@@STOKERMATIC Semper Fi!!

[@Patriot-American]

Stoker... Well done sir 👍. This may be the best video I've seen on KZbin on this subject. I love the 3H and I appreciate the level of detail you went in to explain landnav with this compass along with proper protractor use. Great channel and appreciate you sharing your expertise with us ... 👍😉🍺

[@STOKERMATIC]

Glad the content resonated with you! Thanks amigo!

[@Rickflairshair]

Great and detailed video Top. Thanks for all of the information as always. These videos are great!

[@STOKERMATIC]

Right on man - hope you're doing well!

[@AC-ws4im]

Thank you so much for these videos! You have an excellent way of teaching this in a way that is easier to learn and make sense of a complex skill. I greatly appreciate your content!!

[@STOKERMATIC]

Glad it helped!!

[@LiliumBosniacum1921]

Another great video which will go to my Survival playlist. Stay Stoked, man!

[@STOKERMATIC]

Right on!

[@corvavw6447]

Ik neem een kaartplotter mee,zoveel gemakkelijker 🎉

[@vincentklotz5849]

Great Video! You show your experience and importance of compass use across brush terrain.

[@phoenixrising4073]

I've watched a couple other videos on land nav before (Pat Mac, Corporals Corner, Grey Green Beret) but this was my favorite one. All tactics in each video were similar but it was good to see them used in practice real time. Thanks for showing those blackberry bushes, just remembered I gotta go get some!

[@LoneRangerSuperDave]

Thank you for taking the time to make this video. I did some orienteering when I was in the Boy Scouts, but have been wanting to learn more detailed navigation.

[@michaelhickerson5505]

If you walk through the thick woods in Alabama, you will be covered in Ticks. You could also run into a couple of Rattlesnakes. Great Video

[@STOKERMATIC]

I remember well!

[@88rollins]

What an excellent video! you really do a great job of making this very easy to understand. Thanks for posting!

[@STOKERMATIC]

Thanks amigo! I do what I can.

[@joefennell7535]

Love it Top. Looks like miller time for you. Great job, thanks.

[@STOKERMATIC]

It WAS! Whew!!

[@SteveWaldron-ws4vb]

Great Video! Took me right back to the first time learning these techniques at SOI (School of Infantry) Camp Pendleton, CA. You are a great teacher. Thanks for the refresher course! ~Semper Fi~

[@STOKERMATIC]

Semper Fi!

[@germansestopal6167]

Thanks Sir for sharing your experience , for given us this excellent video. I enjoy it a lot.

[@STOKERMATIC]

Right on! Glad the content is helpful!

[@keithnavarro2930]

Awesome tutorial. Saving for future reference. Thanks.

[@STOKERMATIC]

Keith - right on, glad it was helpful!!

[@jimf671]

As you demonstrated, the Lensatic is one of the compass types that has a built-in sighting method for taking an accurate bearing to a distant landmark. A mirror compass, like a Silva 15, is another way of achieving the same thing. An ordinary baseplate compass will always have several times more error. However, ANY mirror will do: all you need is a way of lining up the needle at the same time as looking along the line of the compass baseplate. If you carry a signalling mirror or a small travel mirror (it must be non-magnetic material, so no steel parts!) then by holding it over the plate compass one can align the North arrow and needle correctly while looking along the edge of the baseplate to sight your landmark. This achieves an accurate bearing. 99 times out of 100 the plate compass will be fine but on that one occasion when accuracy is essential, getting that signal mirror out of your sack can reduce sighting errors considerably.

[@STOKERMATIC]

Right on Jim. I do have a baseplate but none with a mirror. Will have to add one to the kit one day

[@H2x2x2]

Just get a Cammenga if you can! Thanks Jim, very useful tips.

[@Illudenocte]

Exactly what i was looking for! Well done sir, thank you!

[@Timmays]

Ragnar lake. That was funny. I'm sure those Army Ragnars loved it. Good video buddy. Thanks for making it.

[@leefra1]

Enjoyed the trip. Learned and reinforced. Thanks!

[@STOKERMATIC]

Right on! Glad it was helpful. Stay Stoked!

[@Eastcoastoverdose_]

Thank you for taking the time to Make this tremendous video Very well done I will never get lost again (hopefully)

[@STOKERMATIC]

I got a whole playlist just in case. 👊

[@ericconner9971]

Just starting in on learning this skill set. Glad I found your channel. Thanks for the content. Well done sir.

[@STOKERMATIC]

Glad our paths crossed!

[@H2x2x2]

Epic upload. Thanks man.

[@RosssRoyce]

Your skills, knowledge, spirit and hence, lessons are amazing! Thanks a lot! I did a few years of general aviation and there the nav is similar. We draw the lines on map ( no enemy concern 😀). When we have to deviate an obstacle ( like a heavy cumulus), we turn 60 degrees off course L or R, count the time to when we are side to side with the obstacle, then turn 120 degrees back towards route counting the same time. On zero time we take back a bearing to normal course, we are behind the obstacle now… I think this may be applied to steps instead of time in the field. Cheers

[@STOKERMATIC]

Thanks for sharing that! Outstanding!!

[@mickd6942]

We’ve had it easy in the uk this year , magnetic and grid north lined up perfectly so no declination difference.

[@sistermarieskitchen]

Wow, you are a wealth of knowledge. Thank you for sharing. And thank you to Grunt Proof for leading me here.

[@paulzimmerman3895]

Great schooling my man! Keep truckin!

[@STOKERMATIC]

Right on brother!

[@dharris101]

Great Video lots of useful information. I get out once in a while to do things like this, I actually find that it's a lot of fun just to try and hit my target. Keep Up the Good Work!!!

[@STOKERMATIC]

appreciate it Don!

[@andypeterson1675]

Awesome! Thank you for sharing this. You’re a natural teacher

[@alvinparks9376]

Thanks, very informative!

[@rickm4295]

Ive been waiting on this one !!! Im watching right now !!

[@STOKERMATIC]

Right on brother!

[@caseykelso1]

Pretty thick brush,hope you got at least a 10mm in that country 🎉 2nd time watching . Excellent work. Have learned so much from your channel. My son ,11b, Iraq once, Afghanistan 2 deployments,out of Ft.Drum .he had a little different way of teaching me land nav. I understand your way a little better 🎉

[@kenmuggli4613]

Excellent job explaining how to navigate. TU

[@guythatstillusespocketwatc3145]

Amazing and detailed video

[@STOKERMATIC]

Tried to cram a lot in there! Glad it resonated well!

[@guythatstillusespocketwatc3145]

@@STOKERMATIC and it worked and even though it's long it didn't feel like it that was great keep it up good sir

[@MA-lq6eb]

WELL DONE BUDDY!👍

[@STOKERMATIC]

Thanks amigo!

[@aaronmorris-k3n]

fantastic video! Thanks so much for the knowledge and wisdom shared. Thanks again!

[@danesnowden6080]

I’m an Soldier who hasn’t used this skill set in years. Not to mention my worst subject was long distance navigation. I loved it but it seemed I always got on a bad team or lost my step count. Thanks again. Nope not a Ranger or 11 bang bang..

[@rickm4295]

I love this stuff , Learning this map work is fun. Ive been practicing on the reservation (Eglin AFB). I do a lot of 4 wheel drive stuff out here so i know the area well as far as the dirt roads. Its hard to get lost lost because of all the roads. They do all look the same but you get better at it. My biggest problem is figuring out exactly where im at when i do get a little off without cheating and getting on a road and finding the road number, haha. Cool video , especially the actual map work , love that stuff

[@STOKERMATIC]

Been a while since I was down that way - beautiful beaches! Rick, the more you know your area, the easier it is for sure - and I think one of the things we can do is slow down and really take it in. Kind of like being a driver or a passenger - I can hardly ever figure out how to get somewhere if I'm the passenger, but if I'm the driver, I'm much more aware of my surroundings and I know which way I turned, etc. Do it a few times, and boom - I got it. Have fun in the sand man!

[@rickm4295]

@@STOKERMATIC Thanks for everything you do man. I really enjoy the content you put out

[@livinroomlongshanks]

@@rickm4295 Rick, I'm out on the E-AFB reservation as I type this doing land nav for the next few days. Have a few questions for you if you don't mind. You have an email?

[@Longbow7771]

Such good help! Thanks!

[@STOKERMATIC]

🍺

[@charlesadamski_197]

That was awesome. Thank you.

[@STOKERMATIC]

Right on Charles - glad you enjoyed it!

[@lowcard1]

Great video.

[@joeowens8923]

Amazing I never had a clue . Hope I can get this figured out half as good as you are . Thank you bro they should teach this stuff in school

[@STOKERMATIC]

Agreed! 👊

[@BackcountryPilgrim]

New Subscriber - this looks good! I appreciate having all this in one video. :)

[@STOKERMATIC]

Ah! Great to see ya! Hope you enjoy the content. Stay Stoked!

[@Outcaste153]

Awsome video great stuff.

[@STOKERMATIC]

Thanks Ash!

[@warrenrobert5009]

This guy is sharp as a tack

[@STOKERMATIC]

🍺

[@kurtbaier6122]

Excellent

[@ndk1950]

Thanks for the clear instruction. I really like the inset map as you're walking. I have a persistent problem: drifting then walking through dense underbrush in a forest with no specific destination marker. (1) How can I tell when I'm drifting? (2) How can I tell how far I've drifted? And (3) How do I get "through" the dense stuff without losing track of my whereabouts (bearing, distance, etc.). Thanks so much for ALL your instruction!

[@STOKERMATIC]

It can be tough - check azimuth more frequently- look behind you for markers as well as in front. Determining drift is a challenge without terrain features, but if you trust your pace count - and your compass, you’ll end up where you need to. Here’s a couple that may help kzbin.info/www/bejne/j4W7Z2mQbMatZ5Y kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y4nWg4yFirqJe8U

[@ndk1950]

@@STOKERMATIC I truly appreciate you and your work!!

[@kevinm.n.5158]

Just got a Cammenga and bought a bunch of maps as well as stuff from your Amazon affiliate links. Hope some of that dough goes your way, thanks!

[@fredbalster3100]

Romans established one mile as 1000 paces. Check it out. 40 paces equals one side of an acre. Noticed you missed your third bearing. You will catch it when you sight it in the field. You can always can check your map again. Good video.

[@STOKERMATIC]

They were close.

[@worldwarmini3919]

What a great video! Would love to see another, maybe a bit shorter distance wise, for your sake hahaha

[@charleskeenom9481]

I love it thank you so much for that video I want to see more I really enjoyed that thank you very much CK

[@STOKERMATIC]

Pumped up it helped you out!

[@KurtOnoIR]

Wow this is a great video man! I was just looking for a little refresher for what I learned in boyscouts years ago. This goes way beyond what I was looking for and into territory that I didn't know existed. It even explained and honed some things that I find myself trying to do naturally, without knowing that a technique exists. Amazing. 👍

[@STOKERMATIC]

Awesome to hear, glad it was helpful!

[@tommcnabb2290]

Thank you for this great video.

[@user-he8qc4mr4i]

Somehow you remind me, Kenny Chesney! Awsome video!

[@brien0008]

Stoker! Another awesome video, with great content and lessons. I just have one criticism, the bearing fm B to Ranger Lake was 180 Degrees out, I believe it should have been 303 instead of 123. Also, you and I have spoken about compasses before: I had suggested that my fav was the Suunto MC-2g baseplate/lensatic hybrid and you said then how much you love the Cammenga. I was geeking out the other day and shot a bearing on 4 different types of compasses and got 4 different readings fm 079 mag to 086 mag. After double checking for error on my part concerning declination adjustment or conversions between mils and degrees, I was able to get my Cammenga and M2 artillery compass to read the same, 082, and one of my Suuntos read 084, the Suunto MC-2g that I favored was still reading 086, so Cammenga all the way! Thanks for your videos, I really enjoy them and always learn new things. Stay safe!

[@STOKERMATIC]

Right on Brian! Sounds like the test revealed some things with what you had. I've got a video I'm working on to discover easily if your compass is cheating on you, lol. Should be informative and fun. Stay Stoked!

[@brien0008]

@@STOKERMATIC Sweet! Can't wait to watch it!

[@Steve-zs3vd]

Awesome class 👍🏼

[@DBJCobb]

Very good job.

[@moorejl57]

Thanks for this great video, still have a ways to go but enjoying it so far. I like it so much I smashed the like twice for extra effect! j/k

[@STOKERMATIC]

I appreciate it Jamie - glad the content is helpful!! Stay Stoked

[@clintwelch9843]

Great content, thank you.

[@STOKERMATIC]

Thanks Clint!

[@devonsmiferguso7934]

Awesome content man

[@STOKERMATIC]

Thanks brother!

[@joeowens8923]

Thanks again

[@tommysmith8801]

Thank you for the video. Been wanting to learn land nav. I'm good with an atlas looks like I need a couple topographical maps of my home area to begin with.

[@STOKERMATIC]

You got this! Check out the USGS website for Topo maps.