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IN 129 Rev. D 02/09
Congratulations on your purchase of a quality Orion product.
These sturdy aluminum tripods provide solid support for bin-
oculars, small telescopes, still cameras, or video cameras.
Designed for use either indoors or outdoors, the Paragons
feature a smooth, two-way pan head and quick-release shoe
for convenient operation.
To get the most from your new tripod, please take a few min-
utes to read these instructions and operating tips. Refer to the
labeled figure for the names of specific parts of the tripod.
Adjusting the Legs
Your Paragon tripod comes fully assembled. Note that each
leg has two telescoping sections. To extend a leg, loosen the
ridged helical lock knob by turning it counterclockwise, then
extend the leg. When it has been extended to the desired
length, turn the lock knob clockwise until tight. Before mount-
ing an instrument on the tripod it is a good idea to press down
on the pan head to make sure the legs are locked securely
and will not give way under the instrument’s weight.
Dual Rubber/Spike Feet
The Paragons are equipped with dual-purpose feet that con-
sist of a retractable rubber foot and a metal spike. The rubber
feet are intended for use of the tripod indoors or on a smooth
paved surface. The metal spikes are desirable for achieving a
firm grip on soft surfaces.
To use the rubber feet, thread the foot counterclockwise until
it stops. In this position, the metal spike will be well recessed
within the rubber. Be sure all three rubber feet are flat on the
floor, not tipped sideways.
To expose the spike feet, thread the rubber foot clockwise
until the spike protrudes from the rubber. In some instances
you may wish to remove the rubber feet altogether so more
of the metal spike is exposed. This can be done by just pull-
ing the rubber feet off their anchors. They can be pressed on
again at any time.
Adjusting the Tripod’s Stance
The Paragons have a very wide stance for enhanced stability.
The widest stance is achieved when the tri-brace is as far
down as it will go on the elevator shaft housing. The brace
lock knob should be tightened to secure the stance.
If you are using the tripod in a confined space, the stance can
be narrowed by loosening the tri-brace lock knob, and push-
ing the legs closer together. The tri-brace will move up on the
elevator shaft housing. Retighten the lock knob to secure the
legs in the new position. Be aware that the tripod will become
more “tippy” as its stance is narrowed. Be very careful when
mounting an instrument with an unwieldy center of gravity on
the tripod, especially if it is somewhat heavy.
Elevator
hand crank
Quick release shoe
Pan head handle
Elevator lock knob
Elevator shaft housing
Brace lock knob
Tri-brace
Helical leg
lock knobs
Rubber feet
Two-way
pan head
Handle
lock knob
Elevator shaft
Orion
®
Paragon
™
Field Tripod & Fluid Pan Head
#5370 Paragon HD-F2
#5360 Paragon-Plus XHD
