Let’s Talk About Perko Side Lights w/ Horizontal Mount
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless products come and go, each promising the world. But few are as fundamentally crucial as reliable navigation lighting for watercraft. That’s where the Perko Side Lights w/ Horizontal Mount come in – a seemingly simple yet absolutely essential piece of equipment for any power-driven vessel under 20 meters.
My need for these lights stemmed from a restoration project on a vintage runabout I recently acquired. The original side lights were corroded beyond repair, and finding a dependable, cost-effective replacement became paramount. While researching options, the Perko Side Lights w/ Horizontal Mount consistently appeared as a trusted and affordable choice.
Unboxing the lights revealed a clean, white polymer housing that felt surprisingly robust. They are lightweight, but not flimsy, and the red and green lenses were securely in place. The build quality seemed adequate for the intended purpose, with no immediate signs of defects.
Initially, I was considering other options, including LED upgrades and more expensive brass fixtures. However, the Perko Side Lights w/ Horizontal Mount won out due to their simplicity, affordability, and readily available replacement parts. My first impression was positive – a practical, no-nonsense solution that appeared well-suited for the task.
Real-World Testing: Putting Perko Side Lights w/ Horizontal Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Perko Side Lights w/ Horizontal Mount on my restored runabout, primarily using it for evening fishing trips on a local lake. The initial testing was conducted in calm waters under relatively clear skies. The lights were easy to install, requiring only basic hand tools and a few minutes of my time.
The lights performed adequately in the initial conditions, providing clear and visible navigation signals to other boaters. The horizontal mounting configuration allowed for straightforward positioning on the boat’s gunwales. No issues arose during the first few outings, and the lights functioned as expected.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including exposure to rain and fluctuating temperatures, the Perko Side Lights w/ Horizontal Mount have held up reasonably well. There are no signs of cracking or significant discoloration in the polymer housing. However, there’s slight fading of the lens colors after prolonged sun exposure.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only an occasional wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove grime and water spots. So far, the lights have outperformed my initial expectations, especially considering their budget-friendly price point. The bulbs haven’t burned out, and the gold-plated contacts show no signs of corrosion.
Breaking Down the Features of Perko Side Lights w/ Horizontal Mount
Specifications
The Perko Side Lights w/ Horizontal Mount are designed for power-driven vessels under 20 meters (65.6 feet) in length. The housing material is a white polymer, providing corrosion resistance. The lenses are red and green, adhering to standard navigation light color conventions.
- The light uses 12-volt bulbs (included), which are easily replaceable.
- The dimensions are 3-1/2″ in length, 2-1/4″ in width, and 13/16″ in vertical height. These compact dimensions make them suitable for smaller vessels.
- The lights are designed for horizontal mounting using #8 screws. This is a fairly standard size, making installation straightforward.
These specifications are crucial because they ensure that the lights meet legal requirements for vessel navigation. The 12-volt system is compatible with most boat electrical systems. The dimensions are appropriate for boats under 20 meters, and the horizontal mount offers flexibility in placement.
Performance & Functionality
The Perko Side Lights w/ Horizontal Mount adequately fulfill their primary function of providing visible navigation signals. The lights are bright enough to be seen from a reasonable distance at night. The red and green colors are distinct and easily identifiable.
The main strength of these lights is their simplicity and ease of use. However, the bulb-based lighting is less energy-efficient and less durable than LED alternatives. Overall, they meet expectations for basic navigation lighting needs.
Design & Ergonomics
The white polymer housing is functional and aesthetically pleasing, blending well with most boat designs. The lights are lightweight and compact, minimizing any impact on the boat’s balance or handling. The horizontal mounting design allows for flexible placement on the gunwales.
The design is user-friendly, requiring no specialized knowledge or tools for installation. There is no learning curve involved in operating the lights.
Durability & Maintenance
The Perko Side Lights w/ Horizontal Mount are reasonably durable, given their polymer construction. However, the polymer is susceptible to fading and degradation over time with prolonged UV exposure. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and bulb replacement.
With proper care, these lights should last several seasons, but they are not as robust as higher-end metal-housed alternatives.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Perko Side Lights w/ Horizontal Mount come with the necessary 12-volt bulbs. There aren’t any significant customization options for these lights. However, you can easily replace the bulbs with LED equivalents for improved energy efficiency and longevity.
These lights are universally compatible with any boat that requires standard red and green side navigation lights.
Pros and Cons of Perko Side Lights w/ Horizontal Mount
Pros
- Affordable and budget-friendly
- Easy to install with basic hand tools
- Suitable for vessels under 20 meters
- Durable polymer housing
- Clear and visible navigation signals
Cons
- Bulb-based lighting is less energy-efficient than LED
- Polymer housing is susceptible to UV degradation
- Limited customization options
Who Should Buy Perko Side Lights w/ Horizontal Mount?
The Perko Side Lights w/ Horizontal Mount are perfect for boat owners who need a reliable and affordable navigation lighting solution for vessels under 20 meters. They are well-suited for recreational boaters, fishermen, and those restoring older boats on a budget. Individuals who prefer readily available, easily replaceable bulbs will find these lights ideal.
This product should be skipped by those looking for high-end, long-lasting navigation lights with advanced features such as integrated LED lighting or metal housings. Those who prioritize maximum durability and resistance to harsh marine environments should also consider alternative options.
A must-have accessory would be replacement bulbs, ensuring you’re always prepared for a bulb failure. Upgrading to LED bulbs is a worthwhile modification for increased energy efficiency and bulb longevity.
Conclusion on Perko Side Lights w/ Horizontal Mount
The Perko Side Lights w/ Horizontal Mount offer a dependable and cost-effective solution for basic navigation lighting needs. While they may not boast the advanced features or ultimate durability of premium alternatives, they deliver reliable performance at an affordable price point. The price is justified for what they provide – standard navigation lighting that meets legal requirements.
I would personally recommend the Perko Side Lights w/ Horizontal Mount to boat owners seeking a practical and budget-friendly option. If you need dependable navigation lights without breaking the bank, these are worth considering. Don’t get caught on the water without proper lighting – invest in a set of Perko Side Lights w/ Horizontal Mount today and ensure your safety and visibility on the water.