Convert Compass Points to Milliradians

Convert Compass Points (pt) to Milliradians (mrad) instantly and accurately.

Conversion Formula

mrad = pt × 196.3495408

About Compass Points

A compass point equals 1/32 of a full circle - π/16 rad ≈ 0.19635 rad (= 11.25°). Traditional maritime compasses divide the horizon into 32 named points from North clockwise back to North, each further divided into quarter-points (2.8125°). This 32-point rose was the standard for European seafaring from the 14th to 19th centuries. Modern navigation uses three-digit decimal bearings (000°-359°), but compass roses persist in meteorology and nautical heritage. 1 compass point = 11.25° = 11°15′ = 200 NATO mils.

About Milliradians

A milliradian (mrad) is one thousandth of a radian (10⁻³ rad ≈ 0.05730°). The MIL-dot reticle system in precision rifle scopes uses milliradians for its elegant property: at range R metres, 1 mrad subtends exactly R mm - so at 300 m, 1 mrad = 300 mm; at 1,000 m, 1 mrad = 1,000 mm = 1 m. Semiconductor laser slow-axis divergence is typically 5-15 mrad. Note: 1 mrad ≠ 1 NATO mil (which is π/3,200 rad ≈ 0.9817 mrad). 1 mrad ≈ 0.05730° ≈ 3.438′ ≈ 206.3″.

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