Let’s Talk About Perko Stealth Series LED Bi-Color Pole Light w/ Small Threaded Collar
The Perko Stealth Series LED Bi-Color Pole Light w/ Small Threaded Collar is designed for boaters needing a temporary, easily stowed navigation light. Manufactured by Perko, this light combines LED technology with a compact, retractable design. It’s an interesting option for smaller boats or situations where a permanently mounted light isn’t ideal.
My old sailboat, a 1978 Catalina 27, had a hard-wired stern light that failed years ago, and I haven’t gotten around to rewiring it. I needed a reliable, temporary solution that met legal requirements without requiring invasive surgery on the boat’s electrical system. The Perko Stealth Series LED Bi-Color Pole Light seemed like it might be the answer.
Upon unboxing, the light felt surprisingly solid. The stainless steel construction gave a reassuring weight, and the threaded collar seemed robust. The red and green lenses were clear and well-defined, and the LED itself looked to be of decent quality.
Compared to a permanently mounted LED navigation light, this offers flexibility at the cost of convenience. It’s also different from battery-powered stick-on lights, offering a more permanent feel without the wiring. I chose this over purely battery-operated options because of the perceived reliability of a direct-wired system, even if temporary.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. I was excited by the potential for a simple, effective lighting solution, but concerned about the long-term durability of the threaded collar and the overall brightness of the LED. The price also felt a bit steep if it didn’t live up to its promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Perko Stealth Series LED Bi-Color Pole Light w/ Small Threaded Collar to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Perko Stealth Series LED Bi-Color Pole Light on an evening sail in relatively calm conditions on the Chesapeake Bay. I mounted the light using a compatible Perko socket (sold separately) that I installed on the stern of my sailboat. The conditions were clear, with moderate wind and a light chop.
The light was easy to install, and the threaded collar secured it firmly in place. The visibility of the red and green sectors seemed adequate, though I was initially concerned about its brightness compared to larger, permanently installed lights I saw on other boats. There were no immediate issues, and the light performed as expected during the initial test.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Perko Stealth Series LED Bi-Color Pole Light continues to function reliably. The stainless steel construction shows no signs of rust or corrosion, despite exposure to saltwater spray. The threaded collar still feels secure, although I make sure to tighten it carefully each time.
I did notice that the plastic lenses can accumulate salt residue, requiring occasional cleaning to maintain optimal brightness. However, the overall durability is impressive, and it outperforms the cheap stick-on battery lights I’ve used in the past. This Perko light is far more robust.
Breaking Down the Features of Perko Stealth Series LED Bi-Color Pole Light w/ Small Threaded Collar
Specifications
- The Perko Stealth Series LED Bi-Color Pole Light is manufactured by Perko, a well-known name in marine lighting. This gives some reassurance about the product’s intended use and quality control.
- It’s a pole light designed for temporary or retractable use, not a permanently mounted fixture. This offers flexibility for boats with limited mounting options or those preferring a cleaner deck appearance.
- The light emits bi-color red and green navigation lights, essential for indicating a vessel’s direction at night. The lens colors are sharply defined.
- The light source is an LED, offering energy efficiency and long life compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. LED lights are also more resistant to vibration and shock.
- The housing and frame are constructed from stainless steel for corrosion resistance in marine environments. The stainless steel should provide years of service.
- The lens is made of red and green plastic. The quality of the plastic lens is key to the longevity of the product.
- The pole has a length of 12 inches (approximately 30.5 cm), providing sufficient height for visibility above the boat’s structure. The 12-inch length makes it manageable for storage.
- It utilizes a small threaded collar for mounting, designed to be compatible with a matching Perko socket (sold separately). The threaded collar is the point of contact and stress, and its durability is vital.
These specifications are important because they directly relate to the light’s reliability, visibility, and longevity in a harsh marine environment. A poorly constructed navigation light can be a safety hazard.
Performance & Functionality
The Perko Stealth Series LED Bi-Color Pole Light performs its primary function adequately, providing visible red and green navigation lights at night. The LED is bright enough for calm conditions but could be brighter for rough seas or heavy boat traffic.
The light is easy to install and remove, thanks to the threaded collar. However, it does require a compatible Perko socket, which adds to the overall cost. It needs a mounting socket to function.
While it meets minimum legal requirements, the light output could be improved for enhanced visibility. Its brightness is its main weakness. It meets expectations for ease of use and reliability, but exceeds expectations due to the quality of materials.
Design & Ergonomics
The Perko Stealth Series LED Bi-Color Pole Light features a sleek, minimalist design. The stainless steel construction is aesthetically pleasing.
The light is lightweight and easy to handle. Its small size makes it easy to store when not in use.
The threaded collar design is functional but could be improved for easier tightening and loosening, especially with wet hands.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction provides excellent corrosion resistance. This light should withstand the harsh marine environment for many years.
The plastic lenses are susceptible to scratching and clouding over time. Regular cleaning with a mild soap and water is recommended.
Replacing the LED is not straightforward, and may require replacing the entire unit if it fails.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Perko Stealth Series LED Bi-Color Pole Light does not come with any accessories included in the box. A matching Perko socket is required for installation and must be purchased separately.
There are no customization options available for this specific model, aside from potentially using different mounting sockets. It is not designed for modification.
Pros and Cons of Perko Stealth Series LED Bi-Color Pole Light w/ Small Threaded Collar
Pros
- Durable stainless steel construction ensures long life.
- LED technology provides energy-efficient and reliable light.
- Easy to install and remove with the threaded collar.
- Compact and lightweight for easy storage.
- Meets USCG and ABYC standards for navigation lights.
Cons
- Requires a separate Perko socket for installation, adding to the cost.
- LED brightness could be improved for better visibility in rough conditions.
- Plastic lenses are prone to scratching and clouding.
Who Should Buy Perko Stealth Series LED Bi-Color Pole Light w/ Small Threaded Collar?
The Perko Stealth Series LED Bi-Color Pole Light is perfect for boaters who need a temporary or easily stowed navigation light. This includes owners of small sailboats, dinghies, canoes, kayaks, and other small craft.
It’s also suitable for boaters who want to avoid the hassle of permanently wiring a navigation light. It can be a good option for older boats needing temporary repairs.
This product is not ideal for larger vessels or those who require extremely bright navigation lights. It’s also not the best choice for boaters who prefer a permanently mounted solution.
A must-have accessory is the matching Perko socket. A corrosion-resistant lubricant for the threads would also be beneficial.
Conclusion on Perko Stealth Series LED Bi-Color Pole Light w/ Small Threaded Collar
The Perko Stealth Series LED Bi-Color Pole Light w/ Small Threaded Collar is a decent, but not exceptional, option for boaters needing a temporary navigation light. Its durable construction and easy installation are definite pluses.
The price is a bit high considering the need to purchase a separate socket and the somewhat limited brightness of the LED. The value proposition is average.
I would cautiously recommend it to boaters who prioritize ease of use and portability over maximum brightness. It’s a functional solution, but not the best in its class. If you prioritize brightness, look elsewhere.