Re: [Paddlewise] Mounting a compass

From: <rdiaz_at_ix.netcom.com>
Date: Sun, 10 Oct 1999 15:56:23 -0700
Bhansen97_at_aol.com wrote:
> 
> Jerry - Not everyone needs a compass on a kayak. If you never venture out of
> a small confined area which you already know quite well, and if you never
> paddle when there's any chance of fog, then maybe you don't need a compass.
> 
> On the other hand, there's a lot you can learn if you do have a compass and
> learn how to use it - and I think it adds to the fun of paddling.
> 
> If you do decide that you want or need a compass, I believe strongly that you
> should mount it on the deck, or in the deck. Attachments to the froward hatch
> cover are possible, and they have their uses, but those and the bungie-cord
> attachments are prone to errors, since the compass won't always line up
> exactly with the boat, and it may also shift its position in any kind of
> weather.
> 
> A hand-held compass is very helpful, and I think one should have *both* a
> hand-held and a fixed-mount compass, and learn how to use them. They have
> different uses, and there are many times when both will be needed.
> 
> Bill Hansen

Don't overlook the combination Silva/Nexus UN 70 compass that is both a
steering compass and hand bearing compass.  In its holder it helps you
hold a course; if you remove it from its holder it acts as a good
bearing compass to fix your position on two or more bearing points.

ralph
-- 
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Ralph Diaz . . . Folding Kayaker newsletter
PO Box 0754, New York, NY 10024
Tel: 212-724-5069; E-mail: rdiaz_at_ix.netcom.com
"Where's your sea kayak?"----"It's in the bag."
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Received on Sun Oct 10 1999 - 13:06:43 PDT

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