Monday, December 23, 2013

How to use the aiming off technique with your map and compass

Aiming off is an essential land navigation technique to use when your attack point is not immediately visible.
Source: This article was adapted from the Ultimate Navigation Manual, by Lyle F. Brotherton. Copyright © 2011 by Harper Collins Publishers, London, UK. All Rights Reserved. Excerpted with Expressed Written Permission. Order your copy today at www.MicroNavigation.com or www.Amazon.com.
In poor weather you can lose sight of even the largest attack point—small or subtle attack points (such as a contour change) can be missed even in the best of conditions.

The technique involves aiming at a linear feature, deliberately to one side of the attack point, then simply following it to your attack point.

Steps
  1. Select your Attack Point.
  2. Identify a Linear Feature such as a wall, stream or track near to the attack point.
  3. Take a Bearing to one side of your attack point.
  4. Calculate from the map the approximate distance from the point at which you will reach the linear feature to your attack point.
  5. Walk this bearing.
  6. When you reach the linear feature use it as a Handrail to find your attack point, pacing the distance.
The added advantage of flowing water (rivers, brooks, streams, etc.) is that you can also work out from the contour lines which way they are flowing, in this instance you would walk downstream. It might be worth noting that when you hit the linear feature you pace how far it is to your attack point just in case you overshoot it


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2 comments:

  1. UnknownJanuary 27, 2014 at 10:49 AM

    Another version of an attack point is a point on the map/ground that can be easily identified and reached, such as a bridge (as in your picture). This point should be approx. 300 meters or less from your destination. Should always use one when navigating for long distances (20+ miles). This attack point is used to "attack" your destination. This way, if the terrain, weather, nature hinders your navigation you can return to your "attack point" and attempt again after evaluating your last attempt. It also provides a solid "center point" to conduct a circular search outward. It is very effective during limited visibility operations. The technique of using the linear feature is what we call a "back stop" that prevents you from shooting past your attack point or destination. Hand railing is a great technique for moving quickly over a long a distance. Navigation is a critical skill set that will enable success or failure if you are lacking it. I have used these techniques all over the world (Panama, Korea, Afghanistan, Iraq, Africa, USA). Learning the basics and mastering them is key to staying found.

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  2. UnknownJanuary 27, 2014 at 10:55 AM

    Thanks Lani! Great technique.

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