When following a compass heading, what is the recommended process?

Setting the desired degree on the bezel and boxing the needle is the recommended process when following a compass heading because it provides a reliable method to ensure that the navigation is accurate. This process involves adjusting the compass bezel to align with the specific degree you wish to follow. By doing so, it allows you to determine the direction you need to travel. Boxing the needle means keeping the compass needle centered within the selected degree on the bezel, which indicates that you are moving in the correct direction.

This method is essential because it ensures precise navigation, particularly in situations where visual landmarks may be scarce or when moving over challenging terrain. By following the boxed needle, a navigator can maintain their intended course more effectively than relying solely on visual estimations or other less precise methods.