Jesse's Hunting > Topo Maps & Compass Page

Topo Maps & Compass Page

  A topographic map, or topo map, tells you where things are and how to get to them, whether you're hiking, biking, hunting, fishing, or just interested in the world around you. These maps describe the shape of the land. They define and locate natural and man-made features like woodlands, waterways, important buildings, and bridges. They show the distance between any two places, and they also show the direction from one point to another.

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) issued the first topo map in the late 1800s. The map with squiggly brown "contour" lines detailed the rolling hills of Bastrop Texas.

Distances and directions take a bit of figuring, but the topography and features of the land are easy to determine. The topography is shown by contours. These are imaginary lines that follow the ground surface at a constant elevation; they are usually printed in brown, in two thickness'. The heavier lines are called index contours, and they are usually marked with numbers, which give the height in feet or meters. The contour interval, a set difference in elevation between the brown lines, varies from map to map; its value is given in the margin of each map. Contour lines that are close together represent steep slopes.

   Natural and man made features are represented by colored areas and by a set of standard symbols on all U.S. Geological Survey topographic maps. Woodlands, for instance, are shown in a green tint; waterways, in blue. Buildings may be shown on the map as black squares or outlines. Recent changes in an area may be shown by a purple overprint. a road may be printed in red or black solid or dashed lines, depending on its size and surface. A list of symbols is available from Earth Science Information Center (ESIC).
 

Maps are made to scale; that is, there is a direct relationship, a ratio, between a unit of measurement on the map and the actual distance in the same unit of measurement on the ground.

If, for instance, 1 inch on the map represents 1 mile (which converts to 63,360 inches) on the ground, the map's scale is 1:63,360. Below is a listing of the scales at which some of the more popular U.S. Geological Survey maps are compiled.

   A convenient way of representing map distance is by a graphic scale. Most survey topographic maps have such a scale, or scales, in the margin. On the border of this page are scales that will help you determine distances on 1:24,000 and 1:62,500-scale maps. To use these scales, select the one that matches the scale of the map you are using. Distance is measured between points on the map by aligning the scale with "0" on one point and the scale bar extending toward the other point. If these points are close enough to each other, you can read the number of feet or miles between them on the scale. If they are too far apart for that, put a strip of plain paper down on your map, and mark the strip where it touches the two points. Then match this marked strip with the appropriate scale printed in the margin of the map and figure the distance from a series of comparisons with the scale. Read the distance on a curving road or fence line the same way. Mark a strip of plain paper at the ends of relatively straight sketches of road or fence, and then compare the marked strip with the scale.

  Another way to measure distance on a map is to buy the 'Silva Map Measure, (type 101)'. This slick little tool is a handheld unit, with a wheel you roll over your map, and then read out the distance on the gauge. Great when trying to measure curved lines like trails. Comes with scales of 1:24,000, 1:25,000, 1:50,000, 1:62,500, 1:250,000 and 1:100,000. Also has readout in inches and centimeters, magnifier and vinyl pouch. $22.95 at REI. Brunton also makes a map distance measure.

  Another excellent map measuring tool is the 'Map Mate Electronic Map Measuring Tool'. The 'Map Mate' measures your route on any map, computes the actual distance, and informs you of the expected travel time based on your method of transportation- driving, bicycling, jogging, or hiking. Memory bank stores your info for later retrieval. Measures in miles or kilometers. Pocketsize and lightweight. $19.99 at  Brigade Quartermasters .

   To determine the direction, or bearing, from one point to another, you need a compass as well as a map. Most compasses are marked with the four cardinal points - north, east, south, and west - but some are marked additionally with the number of degrees in a circle (360: north is 0 or 360; east is 90, south is 180, and west 270). Both kinds are easy to use with a little practice. The illustrations below show how to read direction on the map.

  One thing to remember is that a compass does not really point north - not true north, except by coincidence in some areas. The compass needle is attracted by magnetic force, which varies in different parts of the world and is constantly changing. When you read north on a compass, you're really reading the direction of the magnetic north pole. A diagram in the map margin will show the difference between magnetic north and true north at the center of the map. This is called the Magnetic North declination or deviation. You can find the current Magnetic North Declination for your favorite spot here. The declination given on your topo map is usually a few years old, but should be close. It moves over the years, but not much.

  Taking a compass bearing from a map:

• Draw a straight line on the map passing through your location and your destination and extending across any one of the map borders.
• Center the compass where your drawn line intersects the map border, align the compass axis N-S or E-W with the border line and read on the compass circle the true bearing of your drawn line. Be careful to get the bearing in the correct sense because a straight line will have two values 180 apart. Remember north is 0, east is 90, etc. 
• To use this bearing, you must compensate for magnetic declination. If the MN arrow on the map magnetic declination diagram is to the right of the true north line, subtract the MN value. If the arrow is to the left of the line, add the value.

  Compass readings are also affected by the presence of iron and steel objects. Be sure to look out for - and stay away from - pocket knives, belt buckles, railroad tracks, trucks, electrical lines, and so forth when using a compass in the field. Also be aware of the presence of lodestones, (iron deposits in the earth), which can make your compass needle point in a different direction. The only remedy to lodestones is to move away from the area. This is also a good reason to carry a GPS unit since GPS receivers are not effected by lodestones or magnetic fields.

How a Compass Works .... Webpage on how a compass works and how to make your own compass.

Kjetil Kjernsmo's Illustrated Guide on How to use a Compass - Great tutorial on how to use a compass.

Navigation with Map and Compass .... Great site to learn how to use a map and compass.

OA Guide to Map & Compass - Part of The Backpacker's Field Manual by Rick Curtis published by Random House 1998

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Scouting with Topo Maps

You can scout with topo maps by identifying areas or locations that need to be checked for sign. These areas include natural funnels or choke points, bedding and feeding areas, saddles, benches and water holes.

Funnels - The topo map on the right shows 2 good funnels. The deer are reluctant to drop down the steep muddy sides of the river and don't want to cross the open crop field.

If the wind is from the south or southeast, I set up at point #1 to keep my wind off the funnel trails. If the wind is from the north or northwest, I move to point # 2 and let my scent blow into the crop field. These funnels are about 50 yards wide and there are 3 distinct trails the deer use. 1 trail follows the river, 1 follows the edge of the field and the 3rd trail goes right smack down the middle.

Beds - Whitetail deer like to bed with heavy brush on their backside and with a good view to watch their backtrail. In the topo map on the left, I watched a big 8 point walk into the wind with a doe up the the rise and he bedded down on the hill with the wind over his back. The doe slipped up the hill a bit and bedded down right above him.

This little hill also catches the first rays of the morning sun so the does head there especially when it's cold. The deer walked into the area from the northwest just at daybreak and the buck bedded facing northwest. During the rut, watching the fringe areas around doe bedding areas can pay off if a buck comes calling to see if any does are available. When you get enough daylight, glass the area constantly, you may pick up just the tops of antlers of a buck that slipped in under cover of dark.

The hill is old pastureland with cedars mixed in and there is escape cover of heavy timber just to the east where the green is. To find bedding areas, look for circular patches of grass that are matted down. More than 1 bed can indicate that does are using the area.

Saddles - are a natural travel funnels and escape routes for deer and elk between two high points of ground. The topo map on the right also shows where a mulie buck was bedded. Muley bucks like to bed on the very tops, or at least upper portions, of ridges when not bothered by hunters. A saddle can just be a dip in the elevation between two ridges or mountain peaks, they don't have to be a drastic change in elevation.

Older mature bucks will often have a young 3 point buck hanging around with them as a sentry. If you see a 3 point, look hard for the bigger buck nearby. When alerted to danger, the younger buck will usually be the first to stand up to check out the disturbance, leaving the older buck to wait for the signal to scram.

Muleys like to have a view when they bed and will bed on steep slopes. Elk, on the other hand prefer benches to bed on. Muleys like to bed behind small bushes, short trees, rocks or anything that will give them a little better hide. Most muleys look below for danger more than above, so get on the same level or above them to do a stalk.

Benches - Elk and muleys like to hang out around benches. Look for cliffs, rock slides, and dark timber for good escape cover.

Stay tuned, more topo map scouting to come ....

Another good place to learn about topo maps is at this link to an article by Dr. Mark Timney on the Bowsite. Topo Map Info.

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  A  Digital Raster Graphic (DRG)  is a scanned image of a U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) standard series topographic map, including all map collar information. The topo maps are in a .tiff file format. The image inside the map neatline is georeferenced to the surface of the earth and fit to the Universal Transverse Mercator projection. The horizontal positional accuracy and datum of the DRG matches the accuracy and datum of the source map. The map is scanned at a minimum resolution of 250 dots per inch. A DRG can be used on-screen to collect, review, and revise other digital data, especially digital line graphs  (DLG) .  When the DRG is combined with other digital products, such as digital orthophoto quadrangles  (DOQ) or digital elevation models  (DEM) ,  the resulting image provides additional visual information for the extraction and revision of base cartographic information. The USGS is producing DRG's of the 1:24,000-, 1:24,000/1:25,000-, 1:63,360- (Alaska), 1:100,000-, and 1:250,000-scale topographic map series.

  To use the DRGs you will need a software program to allow you to view them. You can download the free USGS viewer here  USGS free viewer . You can also open DRG .tiff files with Adobe Photoshop, Microsoft Paint, Paint Shop Pro and other graphic editing software. Some states have free downloads for DRG maps and some states you will have to buy them on CD-ROM. To see a map of availability and prices go here for maps from the USGS, DRG availability map . Another company that has free topo map DRGs is  GIS Data Depot . You can download them from GIS Data Depot for free, or for $0.75 to $3.00 per 7.5 minute topo map, you can select what maps you want, and they will make a CD-ROM for you.

Ozie Explorer .... OziExplorer Software which will work with Magellan, Garmin, Lowrance and Eagle GPS receivers for the upload/download of data and most brand of GPS receivers for on screen tracking of position (Moving Map). You can also import DRGs for viewing and editing with your GPS. I use this program and it is the best one I have found to plot your tracks, waypoints and other map info.

DRG (Digital Rastor Graphics) download info website .... Lots of links and info here on downloading DRGs for free.  Some websites you have to trade or pay for the DRGs.
iGage .... For about $120 per state you can purchase every 7½ Minute USGS Topographic Map; all the 1:250,000 scale, 1º x 2º maps; and a full featured viewer. Utah, Montana, Colorado, Idaho and Wyoming are available now. New Idaho & Utah 1:100,000 Scale maps available now.

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  So which coordinate system should I use? Which one is the easiest? I have learned and use both. UTM is the easiest to plot on a map, because all the grids are laid out in 1000 meter squares, or 1 kilometer for you math standouts. You don't have to look at the scale to see how far your stand is, you can tell by counting the grids. 3 grids equals 3000 meters. But not all maps you will encounter have UTM referenced on them. That's were knowing LAT/LONG will save you. LAT/LONG is confusing for some because it uses a reference of 360 degrees, 60 minutes, and 60 seconds. I  recommend getting one of the plastic plotters I have listed below, to help in plotting positions on topo maps. It's a lot easier. Waypoint Enterprises  has the best selection of map plotters. If you want to learn more about how LAT/LONG works, you can click here. If you want to learn more about UTM click here.

The Military Grid Reference System (MGRS), is an alphanumeric version of a numerical UTM (Universal Transverse Mercator) or UPS (Universal Polar Stereographic) grid coordinate. If you want to learn about the Military Grid Reference System, (MGRS), click here.

Defense Mapping Agency Technical Manual 8358.1 on datums, ellipsoids, grids and grid reference systems .... Deep reading on all the listed subjects

UTM to LAT/LONG Converter ..... Convert UTM to and from LAT/LONG coordinates online.

MGRS to LAT/LONG or UTM conversion tool ....  Convert MGRS to and from UTM and LAT/LONG coordinates online.

  Topo map details, like the trails and 4wd roads, are hard to follow on most maps. Here's a way to make them jump out at you. Get a yellow high-lighter and high-lite the important mountain names, road names, springs, water tanks and other obvious landmarks. Then use a black high-liter to high-lite the roads that are dashed in, you'll see them a lot better now. Use brown to high-lite the trails. Use red to mark forest boundaries, Indian Lands, hunt zone areas, and other important boundaries. You can draw the UTM grid lines in with a blue marker. Some maps from the 1980's already have the blue UTM grids on them. The USGS did this during the metric craze, but stopped a few years ago. They are considering doing it again because of the GPS craze these days. You can draw in the LAT/LONG lines if you want too, to help with plotting a location.

  Now that you have the map all high-lited and your scouting notes on it, take it to Kinko's or any copy business, and have them make a laser copy, about $1.00 for a "11 X 14", or you can use the topo itself. They will also laminate it for around $4.00 for a "11 X 14" size. Put 2 maps back to back and you can save on laminate costs and increase your coverage area. They can also enlarge or shrink the maps. Now, you have a waterproof, tear proof, easy to read map. Might as well make extra copies for your buddies, heck I've even used some of mine to horse trade with.

  You need to protect your maps if you do not laminate them, as they are not cheap to replace. Plus you have all your secret locations marked on them, right? Buy a round cardboard mailing tube that will fit your maps so they won't get crushed. If you don't like to roll up your maps, buy a waterproof map case, and fold your maps 3 times horizontally and 3 times vertically to make a 8" x 10" square. Leave the name of the map in the upper right corner visible on top, so you can quickly flip through your maps without unfolding them. This also makes it easy if your store them in a file cabinet. You can get waterproof map cases at  Brigade Quartermasters , REI  and  Ranger Joe's. You can also get 'Mapseal', which is a brush on waterproofing compound for maps at Ranger Joe's  and REI. The bottle of 'Mapseal' has enough to coat 4 maps front and back for $4.99. A caution about using 'Mapseal'. Be sure to test the 'Mapseal' first on a corner of your map first, since some maps ink will bleed when it is applied.

Most USGS topo maps are referenced to the map datum called NAD 27 (1927 North American Datum), but some of the newer ones use NAD 83. This information is printed in the lower left corner of the topo maps. If you are using a GPS, make sure you have the right map datum selected in your GPS setup menu. This is a critical point because if you don't have the right setting, you will have errors in your position plotting as much as several hundred meters. NOTE TO GARMIN GPS USERS. The Garmin GPS units come with WGS84 set as the default map datum setting. NAD 27 is listed by Garmin as NAD 27 CONUS in the setup menu. NAD 83 shows up as NAD 83 in the setup menu.

Map Datums

Geodetic datums define the size and shape of the earth and the origin and orientation of the coordinate systems used to map the earth. Hundreds of different datums have been used to frame position descriptions since the first estimates of the earth's size were made by Aristotle. Datums have evolved from those describing a spherical earth to ellipsoidal models derived from years of satellite measurements.

Referencing geodetic coordinates to the wrong datum can result in position errors of hundreds of meters. Different nations and agencies use different datums as the basis for coordinate systems used to identify positions in geographic information systems, precise positioning systems, and navigation systems. The diversity of datums in use today and the technological advancements that have made possible global positioning measurements with sub-meter accuracies requires careful datum selection and careful conversion between coordinates in different datums

Most USGS topo maps are referenced to the map datum called NAD 27 (1927 North American Datum), but some of the newer ones use NAD 83. This information is printed in the lower left corner of the topo maps. If you are using a GPS, make sure you have the right map datum selected in your GPS setup menu. This is a critical point because if you don't have the right setting, you will have errors in your position plotting as much as several hundred meters. NOTE TO GARMIN GPS USERS. The Garmin GPS units come with map datum "WGS84" set as the default map datum setting. NAD 27 is listed by Garmin as "NAD 27 CONUS" in the setup menu. NAD 83 shows up as "NAD 83" in the setup menu. Magellan lists these map datums as "NAD 27" and "NAD 83".

The North American Datum of 1983 (NAD83) and the World Geodetic System of 1984 (WGS 84) of the U.S. Defense Mapping Agency (DMA) were defined (in words) to be geocentric, and oriented as the BIH Terrestrial System. In principle, the three-dimensional coordinates of a single physical point should therefore be the same in both systems; in practice, small differences are sometimes found.

Defense Mapping Agency Technical Manual 8358.1 on datums, ellipsoids, grids and grid reference systems .... Deep reading on all the listed subjects

Geodetic Datum Overview .... Peter H. Dana, The Geographer's Craft Project, Department of Geography, The University of Texas at Austin.

DEMs (Digital Elevation Models)

What is a DEM ?

A digital elevation model (DEM) is a digital file consisting of terrain elevations for ground positions at regularly spaced horizontal intervals. The USGS produces five different digital elevation products. Although all are identical in the manner the data are structured, each varies in sampling interval, geographic reference system, areas of coverage, and accuracy; with the primary differing characteristic being the spacing, or sampling interval, of the data. The five DEM products:

7.5-Minute DEM 30- x 30-meter data spacing
1-Degree DEM 3- x 3-arc-second data spacing
2-Arc-Second DEM 2- x 2-arc-second data spacing
15-Minute Alaska DEM 2- x 3-arc-second data spacing
7.5-Minute Alaska DEM 1- x 2-arc-second data spacing

Over the years, the USGS has collected digital elevation data using a number of production strategies including manual profiling from photogrammetric stereomodels; stereomodel digitizing of contours; digitizing topographic map contour plates; converting hypsographic and hydrographic tagged vector files; and performing autocorrelation via automated photogrammetric systems. Of these techniques, the derivation of DEM's from vector hypsographic and hydrographic data produces the most accurate model, and is the preferred method.

Applications

DEM's may be used in the generation of three-dimensional graphics displaying terrain slope, apsect (direction of slope), and terrain profiles between selected points. At the USGS, DEM's have been used in combination with digital raster graphics (DRG's), digital line graphs (DLG's), and digital orthophoto quadrangles (DOQ's) to both enhance the visual information for data extraction and revision purposes and to create aesthetically pleasing and dramatic hybrid digital images. Non-graphic applications such as modeling terrain and gravity data for use in the search for energy resources, calculating the volume of proposed reservoirs, and determining landslide probability have also been developed.

More info on DEMs here

Brigade Quartermasters .... They carry waterproof map cases and tons of military and police gear.
Brunton Compass  .... Makers of great compasses, pedometers, headlamps, map distance measures, wind meters.
California Topo maps on CD-ROM. .... USGS contractor.
CampMaps .... is the premier service for customized hunting & fishing maps. The products and services we provide aren't just generalized maps of your hunting & fishing areas, they are much more detailed. We use the latest GIS & mapping technology along with the most recent Aerial Photographs, Topographic Maps & Vector Data to have your hunting & fishing areas overlaid upon. Don't limit yourself to just a Topographic Map. You can have deer stands, duck blinds, rigs, structures, trails, roads, property boundaries, buildings and more added to these maps. Pretty much whatever you want added, can be.
Canada Centre for Topographic Information .... Canadian Government webpage about topo maps, links to map dealers, aerial photos and lots more. If your a Canuckian, or are going to visit Canada, this is the place to check out for maps.
Canadian Topo Maps Online .... Department Of Natural Resources Geomatics website.
Coordinate Conversion Programs  .... This is an online source page with lots of links to programs to convert different coordinate systems. If you need to change LAT/LONG to UTM, there is a program here for you.
TRM Enterprises .... Makers of 'Topo Companion' and the 'Coordinator'. Plastic plotter/rulers for topo maps with UTM and LAT/LONG scales from 1:24000 to 1:250,000.. You can get the 'Topo Companion' at REI for $6.00.
Deer Expert .... Deer Expert contains an intelligent data base and asks you questions about the conditions you hunt deer under. When enough information is given by you, it recommends hunting procedures and techniques. The program has over 100 situations to consider and covers whitetail deer gun hunting only (although 80% of the program could apply to bow hunting as well).
Deer Manager .... Note, this website is no longer up, anyone know if they're still in business? The Deer Manager© uses the harvest and sighting data that you input to show the facts and trends that you need to know. At a glance, you'll be able to see things like average weight, average spread, buck:doe ratio, doe:fawn ratio and much more. Working with your data, The Deer Manager© produces everything you need to know to manage your deer with a strategy based on facts, not guesses.
DeerTrack Hunting Log .... Computer program designed to help deer hunters pattern the deer movements in their hunting area and determine the most likely stand to harvest their deer. It tracks deer sightings, based on general hunting conditions, hunting methods and scents used, weather conditions, and actual deer sightings. It also tracks deer harvests, such as general harvest, shot, deer weight and antler information. DeerTrack Hunting log allows you to track seventeen different deer species.
DeLORME .... They have a topo map software called "TOPO USA" and high-quality CD-ROM and DVD-ROM mapping software, including Street Atlas USA®, EARTHA™ Global Explorer®,  and AAA Map'n'nGo®. DeLorme is also a leading developer of global positioning system (GPS) applications and products, such as the Earthmate™ GPS Receiver. DeLorme also produces high-quality paper atlases and maps such as the Atlas & Gazetteer™ series and the EARTHA World Travelog, as well as online mapping applications and route planning products.
Defense Mapping Agency Technical Manual 8358.1 on datums, ellipsoids, grids and grid reference systems .... Deep reading on all the listed subjects.
DRG (Digital Rastor Graphics) download info website .... Lots of links and info here on downloading DRGs for free.  Some websites you have to trade or pay for.
Digital Raster Graphics (DRGs) Topographic Map Exchange .... Buy or exchage DRGs.
ESRI .... GIS and mapping software.
Fugawi .... Topo map software and hardware for GPS and topo maps.
GIS Data Depot .... You can download topo map DRG files here, or for approximately $1.50 per 7.5 minute topo map, you can select what maps you want, and have them make you a CD-ROM. This will save you time, as it takes awhile to download the maps since the files are 1 to 3 meg zipped in size per map.
The GIS Notebook .... Lots of info about GIS.
GPS Nuts webpage on Map and Compass and GPS Basics .... Great website to learn the basics of topo maps, how to use a compass and how to use your GPS with topo maps and a compass.
GPS Outfitters .... Demo videos on different models of GPS, and video on how to use topo maps with GPS, $24.95 each with shipping. Ph#   1-800-477-4868. Take a test drive before you buy.
Hanta Yo "TopoGuide" .... Software for topo maps.
How to Scan Oversize Images .... Tutorial on how to scan oversize maps or pics.
Hunt-R-Vue .... You can combine aerial photography and seamless topographic maps on a single CD-ROM with this software from Oakvue. The ability to insert symbols marking trails, stand locations, scrapes rubs, etc. Create your own boundaries to mark food plots, bedding areas, or core areas. A journal to record daily information per stand location, number of hours hunted, weather conditions, number of deer seen, etc. States currently available are Texas, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Tennessee and West Virginia
iGage .... For about $120 per state you can purchase every 7½ Minute USGS Topographic Map; all the 1:250,000 scale, 1º x 2º maps; and a full featured viewer. Utah, Montana, Colorado, Idaho and Wyoming are available now. New Idaho & Utah 1:100,000 Scale maps available now.
Intergraph .... Geomedia GIS software.
Kindred Spirits Outfitters .... Retailers of Brunton, Silva, Suunto, Sun, and Thommen compasses and altimeters.
Kings Outdoorworld "Map Academy" .... 1:100,000 scale topo maps on CD-ROM. One bad thing about this software is you cannot interface a GPS receiver with it.
Kjetil Kjernsmo's illustrated guide on How to use a compass - Great tutorial on how to use a compass.

Lat26 .... Lat 26 has introduced a synthetic inkjet printer paper for topo maps that is tear proof and renders the ink waterproof. $26.95 for 25 sheets. For you peeps using Maptech, DeLorme or TopoZone to print out maps, this is a godsend. Laminating the maps runs about the same cost ($1.00 per map), but if you put the maps back to back to laminate, lamination would be about half the cost ($.50) of this new printer paper. The paper is not listed on their website yet, so call 1 800-305-0036 to order. They also have the GPS/Topo Coordinator which is a plastic cartographic overlay using the Universal Transverse Mercator Projection (UTM).
MapCard .... Editors' Choice for Best New Product of 2003 by Backpacker Magazine, MapCard gives you unlimited access to up-to-date mapping information and powerful mapping tools.

MapQuest .... Maps and a free trip map you can create online , which shows routes, turns and mileage.
Maptech .... Topo, aviation, and marine maps.
Map Tools .... UTM grid overlay tools, online UTM tutorial, LAT/LONG info.
Maptrails ..... produces interactive topographic mapping software and guides, with GPS interface on CD-ROM. Tandem View combines the detailed topography of the USGS 7.5 minute maps with the Bureau of Land Management maps showing public and private land status into a unique and powerful mapping system. Now Available, Complete USGS Map Coverage for the lower 48 States. State Explorer™ BLM Edition; seamless BLM maps for an entire state showing public/private land status and more, for only $49.99
Mapworld Online .... Topo maps, GPS, Satellite photos, street maps.
Magnetic North calculator .... Nice place to figure the "Magnetic deviation" for where you live.
Military Media .... Military manuals on CD-ROM. They have manuals on maps, survival, medical, everything Uncle Sam prints is here.
Mossy Oak's Gameplan .... . This unique, user friendly program provides important reports for managing natural fertilization, food plot management and evaluation, mineral deposits, tree stand condition, and safety, stand location by GPS, and hunting stand and area usage. It also provides the "hottest" harvest data for each respective tree stand. It is available on CD-ROM. Custom 4480 acre, seamless, reproducible Topographical maps of any area in the United States are available and simply entered into the software at an additional price of ten dollars per map.
myTopo .... Search our database and find ANY location in the continental US. Each waterproof, 24" by 36" Expedition Map is priced at only $14.95. And no matter where you center your customized map, you'll get at least 4 USGS topos in every Expedition Map, a $20 VALUE!
Navigation with Map and Compass .... Great site to learn how to use a map and compass.
Odden's Bookmarks, The Fascinating World of Maps and Mapping .... Hundreds of cartographic links.

Ozie Explorer .... OziExplorer Software which will work with Magellan, Garmin, Lowrance and Eagle GPS receivers for the upload/download of data and most brand of GPS receivers for on screen tracking of position (Moving Map). You can also import DRGs (Digital Rastor Graphics or digital computer topo maps), for viewing and editing with your GPS. I use this program and it is the best one I have found to plot your tracks, waypoints and other map info.
PanaVue .... Image stitching software for cameras and scanners. You can scan your big maps and stitch them together to make 1 digital map.
Pathfinder Maps of Canada  .... All kinds of maps of Canada, topo, aeronautical, nautical, globes, wall maps, street maps, atlases and more.
Platbook.com .... Paper and digital platbook info to help in scouting. Platbooks show the property lines and who owns the land. You can also get platbooks at the county courthouse.
Precision Navigation .... These guys make electronic compasses for your car, boat, and hiking. Pretty cool website too.
Ranger Joe's .... They sell the waterproof map case, 'Mapseal' map waterproofing compound, Ranger pace count beads, and all kinds of military issue gear.
REI .... You can download topo maps here for $4.00 U.S. each. They carry the waterproof map cases and map waterproofing compound 'Mapseal', compasses, GPS, map measuring tools, and other outdoor gear too!
Silva Compass .... For years the standard orienteering compass has been the Swedish-made Silva Ranger. Those days are over, however. Recently, Silva bought Brunton, another top compass company, located in Wyoming. Now every Swedish-made "Silva Ranger" is called the "Brunton Nexus" despite Silva's owning Brunton. (The former Silva importer, Johnson Worldwide Associates, still holds the North American rights to the Silva trademark. Johnson will be marketing very similar compasses, not made in Sweden, under the Silva name.) Some Swedish-made Silva Rangers can still be found in stores and catalog warehouses. If you can't find one, you can buy a Brunton Nexus for $49.95, (contact Brunton U.S.A., Dept. FS, 620 E. Monroe Ave., Riverton, WY 82501; 307-856-6559; fax 307-856-1840).
Sun and Moon Tables .... U.S. Naval Observatory, Want to know where the sun and moon will be at anytime, any day? Check here.
SmartHunter .... SmartHunter is a colorful, fun and easy-to-use electronic hunter's log that's designed to put the power of information to work for you and the way you hunt. SmartHunter represents information in a unique map and icon based format that empowers you to record, track, visualize and report on the unlimited number of factors that affect the animals you hunt, your hunting methods, and the conditions you hunt in.
Suunto USA  .... Makers of excellent compasses, Vector wristop computers, Primus stoves and lanterns, CEBE eye wear,  and Katadyn water filtration systems.
Terrain Navigator   .... By Maptech. This topo map software was formally known as "TOPOSCOUT". They also have a GPS interface program too.  They have marine, air and surveying software available.
Terraserver .... Satellite Images of Earth you can download for FREE. Go to the aerial and satellite photo link at the top of this page for info on how to download a free image of your favorite area. Terraserver now has online topo maps of the USA you can view for free.
Tiger Map Service  .... If you want to find a map of your home state or any other area, this a good website. Lots of other services available too.
"TOPO!" .... Wildflower Productions. 1:24,000 scale interactive  topo maps on CD-ROM. Version 2.0 is out with a free upgrade. They have also released "TOPO! GPS USA", an interface to allow you to upload and download waypoints with your GPS receiver.
Topozone .... You have to check out this free topo map site for the whole USA. If you have trouble printing the maps off your Internet Explorer web browser window, try using Netscape's Navigator browser. Topozone has admitted they have a bug when printing their topo maps with the Internet Explorer browser. You can also get free screen capture software here at Tucows to save the topo maps to a .jpg file. Then you can print them on your printer. Another way to copy what's on your screen, is to hit the "PrtScn" (Print Screen) key. This captures the image that is on your screen and then you can paste the image into a Windows "Word" document or Windows "Paint" program. To paste the image into your Windows " Paint" program, click on "New" from the menu. Then "Edit" and "Paste." It'll tell you the image is too big and do you want to enlarge the .bmp image, click "yes".
Trail's Illustrated .... Waterproof topo maps.
TRM Enterprises .... Makers of 'Topo Companion' and the 'Coordinator'. Plastic plotter/rulers for topo maps with UTM and LAT/LONG scales from 1:24000 to 1:250,000.. You can get the 'Topo Companion' at REI for $6.00.
U.S. Cavalry .... They have maps that have both UTM and MGRS, (Military Grid Reference System), marked on them. U.S. is broken into six regions. page # 94 of 1998 catalog. $22.95 or $28.95 depending on region. 4 or 5 maps per region.
United States Geological Survey USGS .... Topo maps on CD-ROM. All the U.S. except California. See California maps on CD-ROM for California topo maps.
USGS NAPP aerial map finder .... You can search the U.S. here for the aerial photo map you want! Then order online or over phone. Go to the aerial and satellite photo link at the bottom of this page for info on how to find and order the photo of your favorite area
USGS .... Free indexes and catalogs for topo maps. Call 1-888-ASK-USGS to get a free index and catalog for all the topo maps in all 50 states. Your tax dollars finally pay for something worthwhile.
USGS DEMs .... Digitla Elevation Models for all states in the USA.
U.S. Orienteering Foundation .... Orienteering is the sport of navigation with map and compass. Orienteering is a sport for everyone, regardless of age or experience. The competitive athlete can experience the exhilaration of running through the woods at top speed, while the non-competitive orienteer can enjoy the forest at a more leisurely pace. Most events provide courses for all levels–from beginner to advanced–and the sport has been adapted for small children and people in wheelchairs.
UTM to LAT/LONG Converter ..... Convert UTM to and from LAT/LONG coordinates online.
Waypoint Enterprises  .... This company has LAT/LONG and UTM map plotters, how to use a GPS videos, GPS cheat sheets, and lots more. I really like their map plotters, lots of models to choose from.

Newsgroups

news:rec.sport.orienteering,

news:comp.infosystems.gis

If you know of any other good topo map links please email us at .

Army Field Manual "FM 21-26 Map Reading and Land Navigation". This 1987 U.S. Army manual covers the Military Grid Reference System, (MGRS), land navigation, lensatic compasses, elevation and relief and many other topics. $6.00 at any surplus store or at gun shows. The most current print of 1993, is available at Shomer-Tec for $12.00, PH# 1-360-733-6214.

 'The Essential Wilderness Navigator.' How to find your way in the great outdoors by David Seidman. Good book on how to understand maps, plan routes, use a compass, read nature's signs, and navigate anywhere in the world including deserts, mountains, snow and extreme environments. One of the better navigation books I've read and use. $11.96 Format: Paperback, 160 pages. ISBN: 0070563233, Publisher: McGraw-Hill Companies, The,  Pub. Date: June  1995.

'Basic Essentials of Map and Compass Vol.2'. By Cliff Jacobson. A quick read on the basics you need. $5.56 U.S. Cliff Jacobson, Cliff Moen (Illustrator) / Paperback / Date Published: April 1999, ISBN #1570340560. 64 pages. Publisher: Globe Pequot Press.

'Tom Brown's Field Guide to Nature Observation and Tracking'. Excellent book by Tom Brown, who learned how to move and track form an Apache elder named 'Stalking Wolf'. I've had the great opportunity to learn tracking from an Apache Indian, and these people are truly amazing. A must read if you have always wanted to become a better tracker. $10.36. Tom Brown, Brandt Morgan / Format: Paperback, 256 pages. ISBN: 0425099660 Publisher: Berkley Publishing Group, Pub. Date: November  1989, Edition Desc: REISSUE. He also has books on survival, edible plants and more.

'Be An Expert With Map and Compass: The Complete Orienteering Handbook'. Excellent book by Bjorn Kjellstrom covering navigation and competitive orienteering.  Publisher: Macmillan Publishing Company, Incorporated. Paperback, 220 pages, March 1994, $13.60

'The Compass and Map Navigator: A Complete Guide To Staying Found Simply'. Excellent book on map and compass by Michael Hodgson.  $11.96. ISBN #1570340439. Format: Paperback, 192 pages, Publisher: I C S Books, Incorporated. Pub. Date: September  1996.

'How to Read a Map, (Using and Understanding Maps)'. Good map learning book by Scott E. Morris. 1995, $16.95. ISBN #0791018121.

'GPS Land Navigation: A Complete Guidebook for Backcountry Users of  the NAVSTAR Satellite System'.
This is one of my favorite navigation books. Even though it is mainly about GPS, it has real helpful sections on using a compass, altimeters, map reading and plotters,  and coordinate systems. Written by Michael Ferguson, Format: Paperback, 240 pages, ISBN: 0965220257,  Publisher: Glassford, Pub. Date: September 1997. $15.96.

'Land Navigation Handbook: The Sierra Club Guide to Map and Compass'. Great book on learning map and compass. A little dated but still relevant. $12.00. Format: Paperback, 288 pages. ISBN: 0871563312, Publisher: Sierra Club Books,  Pub. Date: May  1983.

'Map Use: Reading, Analysis, and Interpretation'. Handy reference for all your map questions by Phillip C. Muehrcke. $40.00. Format: Paperback, 4th ed., 648 pages, ISBN: 0960297847,  Publisher: JP Pubns W,  Pub. Date: January  1998,  Edition Desc: REV.

'The Map Catalog: Every Kind of Map and Chart on Earth and Even Some Above it.' Great reference for looking up any kind of map or chart by Joel Makower. Paperback . ISBN #0679742573.

'The Outward Bound Map and Compass Handbook'. Good book on map and compass by Glenn Randall.   $10.36. Format: Paperback, 2nd ed., 128 pages. ISBN: 1558217479, Publisher: Lyons Press, The, Pub. Date: August  1998, Edition Desc: REV.

'Staying Found: The Complete Map & Compass Handbook'. Excellent map and compass book by June Fleming. $10.36. Format: Paperback, 2nd ed., 160 pages,  ISBN: 089886397X, Publisher: Mountaineers Books, The, Pub. Date: August  1994,  Edition Desc: 2nd ed.

If you know of any other good topo map books please email us at .

If you would like to order any of the above books on ,topo maps and compass cut and paste the title of the book into the Amazon.com search box below, and click the "GO" button. This will take you to the Amazon.com website where you can order the book online.

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  There are several commercial companies that offer topo map software that you can download from the Internet or buy on CD-ROM. This software allows you to view, customize, and print out USGS topo maps on your computer. I have evaluated the software and provided the info below. If you just want to view the USGS  topo maps on your computer, you can use  DRGs  (Digital Raster Graphics), which are free for some states, or you have to pay for the CD-ROM. I would suggest that if your state doesn't have free DRGs, that you buy one of the commercial topo software programs that will allow you to customize the topo maps, since they are usually the same price as buying the DRGs from your state, which don't have the customizing feature.

  Click here to go to the  Topo Software Evaluation Page

The BLM is a part of the United States Department of the Interior. They publish maps for the land that they manage. One of these maps BLM publishes is called the 'Desert Access Guide' in California for $4.00. These maps are 1:100,000 scale and show roads, landmarks, and BLM land boundaries.