Re: [Paddlewise] Compasses

Peter Chopelas wrote,

<snippity>
> When I learned about nautical navigation I was surprised to learn that
> there is no need to ever concern yourself with declination because the
> charts are all set up be able to use magnetic north exclusively (perhaps
> the USGS who makes the land maps could learn something from the nautical
> charts).  If you never intend to use the hand held compass for land
> navigation then absolutely you do not need or want to worry about
> declination, it would only serve to confuse you.

Would you explain your reasoning further, Peter?  I know that the compass
rose on a nautical chart shows both true and magnetic, but the hash lines
(?) on these charts are aligned to true north/south, east/west.  So it seems
to me that one has to pay close attention to variation on a nautical chart.
Of course, if you have a Nav-Aid, everything is much easier (I have no
connection with the good Dr. Sutherland).

Bob V

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