------------------------------------------------------------- Web Site http://www.survivalprimer.com/ Survival http://www.survivalprimer.com/Index_Survival.htm Christian http://www.survivalprimer.com/index_spiritual.htm -------------------------------------------------------------- not original to above site Compass, Navigation, Offset Technique, Boyscout Book Offset Technique Experienced backcountry travelers know that even a slight error in taking and following compass bearings can throw them quite a distance off their intended courses. One way to be sure you'll reach your destination is to aim intentionally for a point to the left or the right of it, and then follow natural features known as backstops to it. For instance, assume the lake you want to reach is very small, but on the map you notice that a creek flows from it to the left, perpendicular to your line of travel. Rather than take a bearing on the lake itself and risk missing it altogether by passing too far to the right, aim for a point on the creek a few hundred yards below the lake. When you reach the creek anywhere along its length, all you need to do is follow it upstream until you reach the lake. Streams, power lines, fences, drainage ditches, trails and ridges all make good backstops and guidelines.