Reddit reviews Silva Polaris Baseplate Compass
We found 2 Reddit comments about Silva Polaris Baseplate Compass. Here are the top ones, ranked by their Reddit score.
The Silva Polaris Base Plate compass is an instrument for the advanced orienteer, as well as novices to map-and-compass work. The slim profile, durability, and excellent accuracy make this compass our choice to include in survival kits.Clear base plate with inch, millimeter and 1:24,000 scales, makes it easy to read a map, set bearings, and plan a tripFixed declination scale accommodates quick adjustments of map bearings to field headingsFriction-free sapphire bearing allows the tungsten steel needle to swing freely; permanently clear fluid keeps it steadyInstructions explain how to find yourself on a map given known landmarks and how to set a bearing across the land using a map Bulk packaged
You're welcome!
>Is there a good compass or gps you would reccomend?
I'm afraid I'm not a good authority on GPS. I use a DeLorme InReach which is a two-way communicator with GPS ability if tethered to a phone. It's overkill for someone starting out, I wouldn't recommend it unless you've got piles of money burning a hole in your pocket.
As for compasses, I carry a cheap Brunton baseplate compass. Similar to this Silva, but I don't go off trail or crosscountry. More importantly is that you know how to use one. Watch some youtube videos first, figure out if you need a compass that has sights, or if you live in a higher/lower latitude and need something to match your magnetic zone.
Hold off on the GPS and learn how to use a compass and map first. Then if you think it's necessary (or more convenient) step up to a GPS. Remember that maps and compasses don't need batteries.
>How much water is enough water?
General rule is 1 gallon/day, but it varies from person to person, terrain, temperature, etc. If you're in an area with decent water sources, get yourself a Sawyer Mini.
>When deciding where to go in back country do most people just choose a thing and then travel there and back and around or are there trails that people take and camp along?
Choosing a thing and traveling there is called "cross-country hiking" which means hiking off-trail and making your own path. This is allowed in some places and frowned upon at others, depends on how fragile/protected the terrain is. If you're going cross-country, you better be proficient at orienteering.
I'd wager the majority of people hike on trails and camp along the way at established camp sites.
I know exactly what you mean. I had the hardest time finding direction in my life, it all changed when I got one of these
Now I always know what way I'm headed.