MDiana,
Do NOT use this unless you have checked the angle with current. The USGS specifically states that the arrows are NOT drawn to match the declination. There can be significant error this way. If you want to use this technique then use a protractor or baseplate compass to draw the angle from a True North line on the map.
Wow, that's interesting. I always was taught that their little MN/TN diagrams were accurate (at the time of publication). You're saying that it was likely just standard diagram, with the declination correction put in for the appropriate area??? That's pretty scary if true, since I don't recall EVER seeing that on the map itself.
AMLF, most of the maps I used were within 10-20 years. Fortunately, that's usually not too long for the pole to move. Plus, as someone said, my world isn't flat, so I checked pretty often. I also tend to stick with trails. When off trail (base camp, usually), I'm pretty good with landmarks for my goofing around.
Sounds like I've got the gist of it, but certainly potential for error.
Oh, and I still don't have a GPS... one less thing to fail
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