Pace Counter
When I was in the Army, we used pace counters or "Ranger beads" when performing land navigation, or what civilians call orienteering. The beads are a simple abacus that help you keep track of your pace count. My pace count is 60 steps (left foot only) per 100 meters. Every time I hit 60, I pull down a bead from the lower section and start over. After the 9th bead, I pull down one of the top section signifying 1000 meters.
It is inexpensive and easy to make your own pace counter. You will need a 30" piece of paracord and 13 6x9 mm pony beads, available at most craft or hobby stores.
Cut a 30" section of paracord, pull out the inner strands or "guts", and fuse the ends with a lighter.
Take one of the inner strands, loop it around the center of the outer part, and thread the beads onto it.
Now slide the beads onto the paracord.
Separate the beads into two sections. One with 9 beads, and one with 4. Tie 3 overhand knots as shown. Use a lark's head knot to attach the loop on the upper end to your belt, belt loop, or pack strap.
When ready to do some orienteering, start with all the beads pushed up, and pull them down as you go.
Pace Counter
It is inexpensive and easy to make your own pace counter. You will need a 30" piece of paracord and 13 6x9 mm pony beads, available at most craft or hobby stores.
Cut a 30" section of paracord, pull out the inner strands or "guts", and fuse the ends with a lighter.
Take one of the inner strands, loop it around the center of the outer part, and thread the beads onto it.
Now slide the beads onto the paracord.
Separate the beads into two sections. One with 9 beads, and one with 4. Tie 3 overhand knots as shown. Use a lark's head knot to attach the loop on the upper end to your belt, belt loop, or pack strap.
When ready to do some orienteering, start with all the beads pushed up, and pull them down as you go.
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