This is a Baseplate Compass.  It should be the first compass you ever use because it is very easy to learn how to use, it has a wide variety of uses, and it is a type of compass you will probably never stop using.

I go out into the field with three different compasses for different purposes but this one is always close at hand,  in my pocket or literally in my hand.

After getting a bearing (don't worry that will be covered later) this little guy in your hand can keep you on track to that bearing,  by simply aligning the arrow on the top with your bearing (make sure it is magnetic, we will cover that in Declination) and then be sure to keep the red compass arrow lined up with the north indicator (the red lines and red N on the rotating bearing plate).  This process of lining up the compass arrow with north is often referred to as "putting the dog in the house" but again that is a topic for another day.

Aside from keeping on a bearing the square edges and transparent faceplate makes this compass very convenient for use with maps.  There will be a detailed video in the future about using a baseplate compass with maps but here is just a list of some of the things it can help you do:

• draw declination lines
• get a bearing from a known location on a map to a landmark
• trace a reverse bearing from a known landmark on the map towards your position on the map
• identify the bearing of a road or trail on a map
• measure distances on a map

This is just an introduction to the things that this simple little compass can do,  it is truly a powerful and versatile instrument and there is always more to learn about using it.