How to Measure Long Distances

Use these simple techniques when you need to measure long distances. With a little practice, you can accurately measure long distances within 25 yards.

Things You'll Need

• Small notebook
• Pen

Instructions

How to Measure Long Distances

1. Use a reference that you are familiar with (for example, a football field, which is 100 yards).

2. Imagine how many football fields (or whatever reference you choose) would fit in between you and the object or place you want to know the distance to.

3. Practice this technique by estimating a range, then walking to it and counting your steps to see how close your estimation was or how much it was off by. In time, you'll improve and be able to measure long distances more accurately.

Tips & Warnings

• A rangefinder is a useful tool for measuring distances, but it can be expensive and unreliable.

• Be aware of hilly or rolling terrain---this can create optical illusions and make things seem closer or farther away.

References

• Army Study Guide

Resources

• alpharubicon