This document is a user manual for Really Right Stuff (RRS) Panning Clamps, which are designed for precision panoramas and easy framing in photography. The manual covers several models: PC-LR, PC-LR-40, PC-Pro, and BPC-16.
Function Description
RRS Panning Clamps are specialized photographic accessories that allow for precise rotational adjustments of a camera setup. They are primarily used for creating panoramic images by enabling the camera to rotate smoothly around a nodal point, ensuring accurate stitching of multiple images. The clamps also facilitate easy framing by providing fine-tuned angular control. Different models offer various locking mechanisms (lever-release or screw-knob) and form factors (full-size, compact, or integrated with a ball head).
Important Technical Specifications
The manual highlights key components and features across the different models:
PC-LR (Full-Size Lever-Release Panning Clamp):
- Clamp Lever: For quick and secure attachment/release of plates.
- RRS 1.5" Dovetail: Standardized interface for RRS plates.
- Spirit Level: Integrated for accurate leveling.
- Dovetail Base: The mounting surface for the clamp.
- Pan Lock Knob: To secure the panning rotation.
- Lever Positions:
- Fully Open: Allows quick top-loading of quick-release plates.
- Halfway Open: Plate can slide freely for precision positioning but cannot be lifted out. Laser-engraved index marks on the jaws assist with this.
- Fully Closed: Stainless steel lever provides a positive "snap" for secure plate locking.
PC-LR-40 (Compact Lever-Release Panning Clamp):
- Similar features to PC-LR but in a more compact form factor.
- Includes Clamp Lever, RRS 1.5" Dovetail, Spirit Level, and Pan Lock Knob.
PC-Pro (Full-Size Screw-Knob Panning Clamp):
- Clamp Screw-Knob: For securing the plate.
- RRS 1.5" Dovetail: Standardized interface.
- Spirit Level: For leveling.
- Dovetail Base: Mounting surface.
- Pan Lock Knob: To secure panning rotation.
- Screw-Knob Usage:
- For Top Loading: Turn knob 2½-3 full rotations to open wide enough, especially for plates with dual safety stop screws.
- For Side Loading: Turn knob one full rotation to partially open the clamp.
- For Locking: Tighten knob firmly until the plate is locked.
BPC-16 (Compact Ball Head with Panning Clamp):
- This model integrates a panning clamp with a compact ball head.
- RRS 1.5" Dovetail: For plate attachment.
- Pan Lock Knob: To secure panning.
- Clamp Lock Knob: To secure the plate within the clamp.
- Ball Lock Lever: To lock the ball head's position.
- Tension Adjustment: The ball lock lever's tension can be adjusted using a T8 Torx Key.
- Position Ball Lock Lever halfway closed and insert T8 Torx Key into the Tension Adjustment screw.
- While holding the lever, remove the Tension Adjustment screw and lift both straight up.
- Reposition and reinstall the Ball Lock Lever counter-clockwise for increased max lockup, and vice-versa.
- Secure with the Tension Adjustment screw, but do not over-tighten.
All RRS brand products are guaranteed to the original purchaser to be free of defects in materials or workmanship for five (5) years from the date of purchase.
Usage Features
The panning clamps are designed for precision and ease of use in photographic applications, particularly for panoramas.
- Precision Panoramas: The panning base with engraved degree markings allows for precise rotational adjustments, crucial for stitching multiple images into a panorama.
- Easy Framing: The ability to make fine angular adjustments aids in composing shots accurately.
- Quick-Release Systems: Lever-release models (PC-LR, PC-LR-40) offer fast attachment and detachment of camera plates. The three lever positions (fully open, halfway open, fully closed) provide flexibility for quick loading, precise positioning, and secure locking.
- Secure Locking: Both lever-release and screw-knob models ensure a firm grip on the camera plate, preventing accidental movement. The screw-knob models (PC-Pro) offer versatile loading options (top or side) depending on the plate's features.
- Integrated Leveling: The spirit level on most models helps ensure the camera is perfectly level, which is vital for distortion-free panoramas.
- Integrated Ball Head (BPC-16): This model combines the benefits of a panning clamp with a ball head, offering both rotational and tilt adjustments in a compact unit. The adjustable tension on the ball lock lever allows users to customize the feel and holding power of the ball head to suit their specific support setups.
Maintenance Features
RRS clamps are designed for durability and require minimal user maintenance.
- General Care:
- The clamps feature an anodized plating that protects the aluminum from corrosion and mild abrasion. However, this plating does not protect against scraping or drops on hard surfaces like rocks or concrete.
- Cleaning:
- Prevention: Take precautions to prevent the clamp from getting fouled with mud, dirt, or sand.
- Light Cleaning: Dry dust and dirt can be blown off or wiped with a soft cloth.
- Heavy Cleaning: Mud or saltwater should be lightly rinsed off with fresh water and then thoroughly dried.
- Important Restrictions: DO NOT submerge the ball head (for BPC-16) when washing, and do not direct a high-pressure stream of water at the ball head.
- Knob Maintenance: Do not attempt to remove the knobs. If fine sand or grit fouls a knob, simply run a gentle stream of water around the knob while rotating it one-half turn back and forth.
- Lubrication:
- RRS clamps are lubricated at the factory.
- Parts requiring lubrication are sealed.
- NO LUBRICATION IS REQUIRED BY THE USER.
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