Let’s Talk About Perko 1330DP2CHR All Round Pole Light And Base 24
The Perko 1330DP2CHR All Round Pole Light And Base 24 is a navigation light designed for power-driven vessels under 20 meters in length. Made by Perko, a trusted name in marine lighting, this all-round light aims to provide the necessary visibility for safe boating at night. It features a stow-away, plug-in type pole, a chrome-plated zinc alloy base, and a clear fresnel globe.
As a seasoned outdoorsman and someone who has spent countless hours both recreationally and professionally on the water, I’ve seen my fair share of navigation lights. I needed a reliable, easy-to-install, and durable all-round light for my small fishing boat. This seemed like a perfect fit, offering a blend of functionality and convenience.
The Perko light comes in a simple, no-frills package. My initial impression was that it was well-built for its price point; the chrome-plated base feels solid, and the pole, while lightweight, appears sturdy enough for typical boating conditions. I like the stow-away design because it will reduce the chance of it being damaged while trailering or not in use.
I considered a few alternatives, including LED options from other manufacturers. However, I ultimately chose the Perko 1330DP2CHR All Round Pole Light And Base 24 because of Perko’s reputation for reliability and the simplicity of its design. The price was also a factor; it offered a good balance of quality and affordability compared to other brands. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping it would live up to the Perko name and provide years of dependable service.
Real-World Testing: Putting Perko 1330DP2CHR All Round Pole Light And Base 24 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Perko 1330DP2CHR All Round Pole Light And Base 24 during an evening fishing trip on a local lake. The weather was calm, but there was a slight chop on the water. Installation was a breeze, the base mounted easily to my boat’s stern, and the pole plugged in securely.
The light was bright enough to meet visibility requirements. I was impressed with the clear fresnel globe that provided a consistent light output. I had no issues with the locking collar or waterproof cover.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Perko light has proven to be a reliable addition to my boat. It has performed flawlessly in both calm and slightly rough conditions. I even encountered a brief rain shower and the waterproof cover did it’s job.
There are no significant signs of wear and tear, aside from some minor water spots on the chrome base, easily wiped away. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is all it takes. Compared to a previous, less expensive light I used, this Perko model definitely outperforms in terms of build quality and light output consistency.
Breaking Down the Features of Perko 1330DP2CHR All Round Pole Light And Base 24
Specifications
Certified for use on power-driven vessels under 20 meters (65.6′) in length: This is the key spec that dictates its intended application; it’s designed for smaller boats. This certification ensures it meets legal requirements for navigation lights.
Stow-A-Way plug-in type pole with clear fresnel globe and black polymer top: The stow-away design is convenient for storage and protection. The clear fresnel globe maximizes light visibility and distribution.
Chrome plated zinc alloy base: The chrome plating offers some corrosion resistance in a marine environment, while zinc alloy provides strength. This ensures a stable and relatively durable mounting point.
Locking collar on pole: This feature secures the pole to the base, preventing accidental dislodging. A secure connection is crucial for reliability on the water.
Waterproof cover for base: The waterproof cover protects the electrical connection when the pole is stowed. This is critical to prevent corrosion and ensure reliable operation.
Mounting base included: This is a standard inclusion, but important nonetheless, saving the hassle of sourcing a compatible base separately. It simplifies installation.
16 rake plug-in: This defines the angle of the plug, ensuring proper alignment and connection. This is important for compatibility and ease of use.
Gold plated contacts: Gold plating enhances conductivity and prevents corrosion on the electrical contacts. This ensures a reliable electrical connection for consistent lighting.
2NM visibility: This specifies the light’s visibility range at night, which is crucial for safety. 2 nautical miles meets minimum requirements for many situations.
12V bulb included: A standard 12V bulb is included, ready for immediate use. 12V is the common voltage for boat electrical systems.
3/4″ diameter anodized pole: The anodized finish adds a layer of corrosion protection to the aluminum pole. A 3/4″ diameter provides a balance between strength and weight.
Performance & Functionality
The Perko 1330DP2CHR All Round Pole Light And Base 24 performs its primary function admirably: providing a visible all-round light for nighttime navigation. Its brightness meets the required 2NM visibility. The stow-away design adds a layer of practicality that I appreciate.
The locking collar is secure, and the waterproof cover offers peace of mind when the light is not in use. While the light output is good, it isn’t exceptionally bright. However, it meets the legal requirements.
Design & Ergonomics
The chrome-plated zinc alloy base looks good and feels solid. The clear fresnel globe is functional and contributes to the light’s classic aesthetic. The stow-away design is well-executed.
I find the pole easy to plug in and remove. There’s virtually no learning curve, making it user-friendly for boaters of all experience levels.
Durability & Maintenance
The Perko 1330DP2CHR All Round Pole Light And Base 24 appears to be reasonably durable. The chrome plating should offer some protection against corrosion. Regular cleaning will extend its lifespan.
The simplicity of the design should make maintenance straightforward. Replacing the bulb is easy, and there are no complicated parts to worry about.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Perko 1330DP2CHR All Round Pole Light And Base 24 doesn’t come with many accessories, but it includes everything needed for basic installation and operation. You might consider purchasing spare 12V bulbs. LED replacement bulbs are also available, to increase lifespan and reduce battery drain.
As for customization, there isn’t much to do, except replacing the bulb with an LED variant or potentially using a different mounting base if needed. It is compatible with standard marine electrical systems.
Pros and Cons of Perko 1330DP2CHR All Round Pole Light And Base 24
Pros
- Reliable all-round light for nighttime navigation.
- Durable chrome-plated base and anodized pole.
- Convenient stow-away design for easy storage and protection.
- Simple to install and use, with no learning curve.
- Affordable price point for its quality and features.
Cons
- Light output is adequate but not exceptionally bright.
- Chrome plating may require regular cleaning to prevent water spots.
Who Should Buy Perko 1330DP2CHR All Round Pole Light And Base 24?
The Perko 1330DP2CHR All Round Pole Light And Base 24 is perfect for owners of small power-driven boats (under 20 meters) who need a reliable and easy-to-use all-round navigation light. It’s ideal for casual boaters, anglers, and anyone who enjoys nighttime excursions on calm waters. It is also good for anyone needing a replacement of an existing light.
Those who require exceptionally bright lights or operate in very rough conditions might consider a higher-end LED option. Also, if you have corrosion concerns, look for a light with an all-stainless steel or polymer base. No must-have accessories are needed besides spare bulbs.
Conclusion on Perko 1330DP2CHR All Round Pole Light And Base 24
The Perko 1330DP2CHR All Round Pole Light And Base 24 is a solid and dependable all-round navigation light that delivers on its promises. Its blend of durability, ease of use, and stow-away convenience makes it a worthwhile investment for boat owners. The price is justified by its quality and performance.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone in need of a reliable and affordable navigation light for their small boat. If you’re looking for a no-nonsense, functional light that will get the job done, the Perko 1330DP2CHR All Round Pole Light And Base 24 is a great choice. Get yours today and ensure safe and visible boating!