Knowing how to use a compass, along with a topographical map of the area, means you can navigate those remote locations with confidence. It also opens up the world of orienteering, the sport of ...

This is why basic compass and map skills are so important. "Using a map with a compass is a skill that a lot of most people probably don't possess anymore," Bieri said.

Silva has posted the directions for using their Starter model compass on line. Boy Scout Handbooks, Fieldbooks, and some Merit Badge manuals contain instructions for their use.