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From: Gabriel L Romeu <romeug_at_erols.com>
subject: Re: [Paddlewise] Compasses
Date: Tue, 13 Feb 2001 20:36:27 -0500
I am not sure whether you mean the rotating bezel Steve.  Actually, I am
not sure what you mean not having seen the type of compass you are
referring to.   Declination is a necessary calculation (adjustment) when
you are transferring data to and from the chart.  If you are plotting
your course and writing down bearings on the chart, you will (of course)
compensate for declination so that the reading on your deck compass
reads true without the need to perform the mental calculations.
The rotating bezel is necessary (or may I change the absolute to 'most
accommodating to have any sort of accuracy in') to transfer bearing
readings onto the chart unless you are using a 'Nav Aid', parallel
rules, or a device I made with a grid and  a compass rose on
transparency paper with declination compensated for.  
The true north part of the compass rose is pretty much neglected by my
methods.  In fact, true north has little relevance unless you have your
gps preferences set to it.
I wouldn't consider a hand held without a rotating bezel.
> 
> Steve Scherrer wrote:
> > 
> > I would skip the part about looking for a compass with adjustable
> > declination/ variation.  We teach boaters to NEVER use this feature as it
> > will be a different bearing than the Marine compass on your deck, with no
> > adjustment options.  Don't get confused, don't adjust variation on the
> > compass.
> > 


-- 
                            Gabriel L
Romeu                                                    
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