SunnySports S To Take A Bearing:Unlock the cover half way so that the compass card forms a 90? angle.Raise the lens arm to a 45 degree angle.Stabilize the compass by placing thumb inside the thumb hook. Ensure the hook is all the way towards the bottom before doing so. Locate the target object. Adjust the sighting wire so that it lies in the center of the target object. Read fine degree marking on the compass card. Do this by moving the lens up and down until the degree mark reads without taking your eye off the target. Read the bearing in degrees or MILS, whichever is preferred. It will take a couple of tries untill you get it down pat, but these compasses are accurate!Have Fun Out There!Carl