Let’s Dive into Springfield Marine 1312701 Plug In Hi Lo Swivel Seat Mount
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve encountered countless pieces of equipment designed to enhance comfort and functionality in various scenarios. When it comes to boating and angling, a comfortable and adaptable seating arrangement can make all the difference between a productive day on the water and a back-aching slog. The Springfield Marine 1312701 Plug In Hi Lo Swivel Seat Mount promises to be a simple yet effective solution for adjusting seat height and improving maneuverability on your boat.
My personal need for this product stemmed from a recent refitting project on my small fishing boat. The original seating arrangement left me feeling cramped and unable to easily reach different parts of the boat. I needed a way to raise the seat height and allow for easy swiveling to access gear and fishing spots.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was that the Springfield Marine seat mount was robust and well-made. The E-coat finish gave it a professional look and suggested a good level of rust resistance, crucial for marine environments. It felt solid in my hands, but not overly heavy, suggesting a good balance between durability and portability.
I considered other options like adjustable pedestals with integrated swivels, but many were significantly more expensive or required extensive modifications to my boat’s existing floor. The Springfield Marine 1312701 Plug In Hi Lo Swivel Seat Mount stood out due to its seemingly simple plug-in design, promising easy installation and compatibility with my existing Springfield base. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping it would deliver on its promise of quick installation and improved seating flexibility.
My first impression was positive. I was excited by the prospect of a simple, affordable solution to enhance my boating experience. This excitement was tempered with a slight concern about the 1-3/4″ height increase – would it be enough to make a noticeable difference?
Real-World Testing: Putting Springfield Marine 1312701 Plug In Hi Lo Swivel Seat Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Springfield Marine 1312701 Plug In Hi Lo Swivel Seat Mount came during a weekend fishing trip to a local lake. I installed the mount in my boat before heading out, a process that took only a few seconds thanks to the plug-in design. The mount clicked securely into place, giving me confidence in its stability.
The conditions were slightly breezy, with choppy water, providing a good test for the mount’s stability. The 1-3/4″ height increase, while seemingly small, made a surprisingly noticeable difference in my comfort. It allowed me to see over the bow of the boat more easily and reduced strain on my back and legs during extended periods of sitting. The swivel function worked smoothly, allowing me to quickly turn and access my tackle box or monitor my fishing lines without awkward twisting.
There were no major issues during the first use. The mount felt secure and stable, and the swivel action remained smooth even after a few hours of use. My initial concerns about the height increase being insufficient were put to rest.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Springfield Marine 1312701 Plug In Hi Lo Swivel Seat Mount has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it on multiple fishing trips in both freshwater and saltwater environments. Durability is key with this type of product.
There are no signs of rust or corrosion, thanks to the E-coat finish. The swivel mechanism remains smooth and consistent, even after exposure to saltwater spray and the occasional splash of fish slime. A quick rinse with fresh water after each trip is all it takes to keep it clean and well-maintained.
Compared to my previous fixed-height seat, the Springfield Marine mount has significantly improved my comfort and accessibility on the boat. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of ease of use, durability, and overall functionality. I am very pleased.
Breaking Down the Features of Springfield Marine 1312701 Plug In Hi Lo Swivel Seat Mount
Specifications
The Springfield Marine 1312701 Plug In Hi Lo Swivel Seat Mount is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing Springfield Marine plug-in systems. It adds approximately 1-3/4″ to the overall height of the seat pedestal. This seemingly minor increase can make a significant difference in seating comfort and visibility.
The unit features a swivel top, allowing for 360-degree rotation of the seat. This is essential for anglers or boaters who need to quickly access different areas of the boat. The mount is finished with an E-coat, which provides excellent rust resistance and durability in marine environments.
The Springfield Marine 1312701 Plug In Hi Lo Swivel Seat Mount is designed for quick and simple installation. The pin design allows for easy insertion into both the hi-lo post and the hi-lo base. This facilitates compact storage when the seat is not in use.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the user’s comfort, convenience, and the longevity of the product. The height increase improves ergonomics, the swivel enhances accessibility, and the E-coat protects against corrosion. The plug-in design ensures compatibility with a wide range of boats equipped with Springfield systems.
Performance & Functionality
The Springfield Marine 1312701 Plug In Hi Lo Swivel Seat Mount performs its job admirably. The swivel function is smooth and reliable, and the added height provides a noticeable improvement in comfort and visibility.
One of the key strengths is its simplicity. There are no complex adjustments or mechanisms to break down. The plug-in design makes installation and removal a breeze.
The only potential weakness is the fixed height increase of 1-3/4″. While this worked well for my needs, some users might prefer a more adjustable system. However, for its intended purpose as a simple height extender and swivel mount, it meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Springfield Marine 1312701 Plug In Hi Lo Swivel Seat Mount is excellent. The materials used feel sturdy and durable, and the E-coat finish provides a smooth and professional look.
The mount is lightweight enough to handle easily, yet feels substantial enough to provide a stable seating platform. The simple design means there is no learning curve. It’s ready to use straight out of the box.
The smooth swivel action and slight height increase contribute to improved ergonomics. These ensure a more comfortable and less fatiguing boating experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The E-coat finish and robust construction suggest that the Springfield Marine 1312701 Plug In Hi Lo Swivel Seat Mount will last for many years with proper care. The E-coat protects against corrosion.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick rinse with fresh water after each use to remove salt, dirt, or debris. The simple design means there are few parts that could potentially break or require repair.
Its durability makes it a great long-term addition to your boat.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Springfield Marine 1312701 Plug In Hi Lo Swivel Seat Mount doesn’t come with any additional accessories, as it is designed to work with existing Springfield Marine plug-in systems. There are no specific customization options for the mount itself.
It is compatible with any standard boat seat that uses a 5 1/4″ mounting pattern. This allows for a wide range of seat options to be used with the mount. The ability to pair it with a comfortable and supportive seat is where the customization options begin.
The mount can also be paired with various Springfield Marine hi-lo bases and posts to achieve different seating heights and configurations. This provides some degree of flexibility in customizing the overall seating arrangement.
Pros and Cons of Springfield Marine 1312701 Plug In Hi Lo Swivel Seat Mount
Pros
- Simple plug-in installation: Effortless setup and removal with compatible Springfield Marine systems.
- Improved comfort: The 1-3/4″ height increase provides noticeable relief and better visibility.
- Smooth swivel action: Allows for easy access to different areas of the boat.
- Durable E-coat finish: Offers excellent rust and corrosion resistance for marine environments.
- Affordable price: Provides great value for the added functionality and comfort.
Cons
- Fixed height increase: The 1-3/4″ height may not be ideal for all users.
- No included base: Requires an existing Springfield Marine plug-in base for installation.
Who Should Buy Springfield Marine 1312701 Plug In Hi Lo Swivel Seat Mount?
The Springfield Marine 1312701 Plug In Hi Lo Swivel Seat Mount is perfect for boaters and anglers who already have a Springfield Marine plug-in system and are looking for a simple and affordable way to improve their seating comfort and accessibility. It is particularly well-suited for those who find their existing seat height too low or need to easily swivel to access gear or fishing spots. Pro anglers and recreational fishermen will appreciate the improved comfort and freedom of movement.
Those who require a fully adjustable seat height or do not already have a Springfield Marine plug-in system should skip this product. They would be better served by a more comprehensive seating system.
Must-have accessories include a comfortable and supportive boat seat (if one isn’t already owned) and a compatible Springfield Marine hi-lo base (if one isn’t already installed in the boat).
Conclusion on Springfield Marine 1312701 Plug In Hi Lo Swivel Seat Mount
The Springfield Marine 1312701 Plug In Hi Lo Swivel Seat Mount is a simple yet highly effective product that delivers on its promises. It provides a noticeable improvement in comfort and accessibility for boaters and anglers. Its plug-in design makes installation a breeze.
The price of $43.99 is more than justified given the added functionality and durability. The E-coat finish and robust construction ensure it will withstand the rigors of marine use.
I would personally recommend the Springfield Marine 1312701 Plug In Hi Lo Swivel Seat Mount to anyone looking to enhance their boating experience with a simple and affordable seating upgrade. It’s a worthwhile investment that will make those long days on the water much more enjoyable. Don’t settle for a cramped and uncomfortable seating arrangement – upgrade to the Springfield Marine mount and experience the difference!