"Magnetic north, the point at the top of the Earth that determines compass headings, is shifting its position at a rate of about 40 miles per year. In geologic terms, it's racing from the Arctic Ocean near Canada toward Russia.
As a result, everyone who uses a compass, even as a backup to modern GPS navigation systems, needs to be aware of the shift, make adjustments or obtain updated charts to ensure they get where they intend to go, authorities say. That includes pilots, boaters and even hikers."
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/fl-magnetic-north-shift-20110218,0,2819271.story
With the advent of inexpensive handheld GPS units, has the day of magnetic navigation gone the route of celestial navigation ? You can buy a decent GPS for the same cost as a good navigational grade compass.
Personally I only use the compass for quick general heading references, GPS and the GPS backup are what come into play when precise navigation is required.
Using magnetic navigation seems to be similar to carrying pigeons to detect when you are close to land ! ! !
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