Notes from the Conference on Land Navigation

Introduction

• Based in the California desert
• Purpose: Basic land navigation (land nav)
• The audience may include:
  • Army personnel (basic training, unit-based training)
  • General public interested in learning land nav

Essential Tools for Land Navigation

• Map: Preferably the Military Grid Reference System (MGRS)
• Protractor: To determine the map scale
• Compass: Should have degrees marked
• Pencil: Preferred over pen for ease of correction
• 3x5 card: To write and use as a straight edge
• Other Notes: Knowledge of pace count (measuring distance using step count)

Understanding Maps

• Map Symbols: Basic knowledge required, e.g., roads, rivers
• Grid Zone Designator: Crucial for navigation
• Grid Plotting Example: (70, 33) explained in detail

Using the Protractor

• Example given with a 1:50,000 scale map
• Steps:
  1. Locate the grid based on initial coordinates
  2. Use the protractor to pinpoint the exact location within the grid

Using the Compass

• Compass should have internal degrees marked
• Two methods to take an azimuth:
  1. Holding the compass low and aligning the direction
  2. Using the magnifying glass for precise alignment
• Beware of metallic interference (e.g., weapons)

Calculating Your Location

• Finding Known Points: Reference known objects like roads or mountains
• Taking an Azimuth: Note the degrees towards known points
• Resection Method: Using back azimuth to triangulate location
  • Conversion from magnetic north to grid north
  • Adjusting the azimuth with the GM angle (Grid-Magnetic)

Plotting a Route to a Destination

• Draw a line from the starting point to the destination
• Example: 280 degrees converted to 293 after GM adjustment
• Calculate distance using the map scale

Pace Count

• Determine how many steps equal 100 meters
• Example: 63 steps for 100 meters
• Methods to remember the pace count (e.g., stones, beads)

Moving to a Point

• Navigate using azimuth and pace count
• Periodically check azimuth to avoid deviations
• Overcoming obstacles:
  • Maintain the original azimuth
  • Record step count before and after the obstacle
  • Retrace steps in the opposite direction to realign

Accuracy and Adjustments

• Plotting subsequent points from each reached location vs. returning to the start
• Experienced navigators may plot from the current location; beginners should return to the start

Conclusion

• Land navigation can be complex but learnable
• Practice and proficiency vary among individuals
• Encouraged to seek additional resources and practice

Final Comments

• Encouragement for feedback and tips
• Thank you and farewell from the speaker, Christopher Chaos