Resection is a fast method to pinpoint your position when you can see known landmarks. It’s invaluable if you’re off course or navigating without GPS.
30-Second basics
- Identify two landmarks you can see and also locate on your map, such as a distinct hill top, a bend in a river, or a prominent building.
- Take a bearing to each landmark using your compass.
- Convert each compass bearing to a map bearing by subtracting 180°.
Important: Remember to adjust your compass bearing for declination, or the difference between true north and magnetic north in your area. - On your map, draw a line from each landmark along its map bearing. The point where these lines intersect is your position.