PACE COUNT (using Ranger Beads) As users walk, they typically slide one bead on the cord for every number of paces taken to equal ten meters. On the last pace for each ten meter interval, the user slides a bead in the lower section towards the knot. All 9 beads are against the knot when the user reaches his/her 90th meter mark. On the 100th meter pace count, all 9 beads in the lower section are returned away from the knot, and a bead from the upper section is slid upwards, away from the knot. In this manner, the user calculates distance traveled by keeping track of paces taken. To use this method, the user must know the length of his pace to accurately calculate distance traveled. Also, the number of paces to be walked must be pre-calculated, or the distance traveled has to be calculated from the walked paces by means of a pace count. Setting up your pace count: Mark out a single meter by measuring, then walk normally to see how many paces it takes you in stride. I suggest doing this several times to gauge an accurate pace. Most people will have a varied stride, and covering a full meter (or if you prefer yards) will take a different amount of steps. Once you have your pace count, remember it, just like you would your battle-sight zero on your rifle. The ranger beads can store up to 400 meters, or to the 500th meter mark if preferred. If you are counting in 100 meter increments instead of 10 meters, this multiplies by ten. Ranger Beads Extended information: The pace count can be upscaled from single meters to ten meters, and even 100 meters (or yards). As long as the user knows their pace count for each set of distance, it will be a simple matter of remembering to set the beads accordingly. Take note that walking on flat terrain will give you an ordinary pace count, while traversing woodlands and rough terrain will give you a significantly different result. Some have a pace count for flat terrain and for mountainous terrain. Your pace count in rough and mountainous terrain will increase, as there are valleys, obstacles and hills to traverse. Finally, this is not an exact science. Establishing a solid pace count takes practice. Why a pace count is necessary: When you factor in distance on a map for land navigation, you must be able to know your exact position. In military terms, this also comes into play when calling in coordinates for grid locations. But, for the average hiker it may not be as serious. Perhaps you may like to know the distance from one location to another and plot out reference points in order to better time your routine. You can also check your map and measure the distance by scale and compare it with your pace count to see if the terrain has changed, or to get a more accurate measurement.