Let’s Talk About Perko All-Round Light – 11-7/8
Every boater, from the weekend angler to the seasoned offshore captain, understands the vital importance of reliable navigation lights. Visibility on the water isn’t just about convenience; it’s about safety, and often, it’s about adhering to the law. The Perko All-Round Light – 11-7/8 aims to deliver just that: a dependable all-round light certified for vessels under 20 meters. Perko is a respected name in marine hardware, so expectations are understandably high.
I needed a replacement stern light for my small fishing boat. The old one had succumbed to years of saltwater exposure and rough handling. I was looking for a durable, easy-to-install, and, most importantly, reliable light that wouldn’t break the bank.
The Perko All-Round Light – 11-7/8 arrived in a simple, no-nonsense package. The polymer construction felt surprisingly robust, and the clear fresnel globe appeared well-protected. The included 12V bulb was a welcome addition. The 3/4″ diameter anodized pole felt sturdy enough, though I did give it a good flex to assess its resistance to bending.
I considered other options like the Attwood LED All-Round Light and the Shoreline Marine LED All-Round Light. I chose the Perko for its reputation for quality and the simple, fixed-mount design. The other LED options were enticing for their lower power consumption, but I decided to stick with a traditional bulb for now, prioritizing initial cost savings.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The Perko All-Round Light – 11-7/8 seemed well-built and ready for action. Only time and saltwater would tell if it could truly withstand the rigors of boating life.
Real-World Testing: Putting Perko All-Round Light – 11-7/8 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Perko All-Round Light – 11-7/8 on several evening fishing trips in the bay. Conditions varied from calm and clear nights to choppy waters with a light drizzle. Installation was straightforward – the fixed mount made it easy to secure to my boat’s stern.
The light’s performance was adequate in clear conditions, providing the advertised 2 nautical mile visibility. However, in the drizzle, the fresnel globe seemed to scatter the light slightly, reducing its effective range. It was still visible, but not as sharply defined as I would have liked.
It was easy to use. Just flip the switch on my console and it lights up. The simplicity is appealing.
After my first few outings, I didn’t encounter any major issues. However, I did notice that the polymer pole vibrated slightly at higher speeds. This wasn’t a functional problem, but it was a minor annoyance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of regular use, the Perko All-Round Light – 11-7/8 has held up reasonably well. There are no signs of significant wear or corrosion, although the polymer pole has developed a few minor scratches from being bumped against the dock.
Cleaning is simple – a quick rinse with fresh water after each trip is usually sufficient. The gold-plated contacts appear to be holding up well against corrosion. I’ve inspected them regularly, and so far, they remain free of any significant buildup.
Compared to my previous, cheaper stern light, the Perko All-Round Light – 11-7/8 is a clear upgrade in terms of build quality and reliability. The previous light failed after only a few months due to corrosion and poor wiring. While the Perko isn’t perfect, it’s certainly a more robust and dependable option.
Breaking Down the Features of Perko All-Round Light – 11-7/8
Specifications
- Certified for vessels under 20 meters (65.6′): This means it meets the legal requirements for vessels of this size, ensuring compliance with navigation rules.
- 2 NM visibility: Provides adequate visibility for safe navigation at night, allowing other vessels to see you from a distance.
- Clear fresnel globe: The fresnel lens design focuses the light, increasing its intensity and range.
- Polymer construction: Offers durability and resistance to corrosion, essential for marine environments.
- Fixed mount installation: Provides a secure and stable mounting point.
- 12V bulb included: A standard 12V bulb is included, making installation quick and easy.
- 3/4″ diameter anodized pole: The anodized aluminum pole provides corrosion resistance and structural support.
- Gold plated contacts: These resist corrosion, ensuring reliable electrical connections.
Performance & Functionality
The Perko All-Round Light – 11-7/8 performs its primary job adequately, providing visible illumination for nighttime navigation. The 2 nautical mile visibility is sufficient for most inland and coastal boating activities. It is important to remember that visibility can be affected by weather conditions.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and ease of installation. The fixed mount is secure and the light is ready to use right out of the box. The main weakness is the bulb-based system, which isn’t as energy-efficient or durable as LED alternatives.
It meets expectations for a basic all-round light, but doesn’t exceed them. It’s a reliable, no-frills option.
Design & Ergonomics
The Perko All-Round Light – 11-7/8 features a straightforward, functional design. The polymer construction is lightweight but feels reasonably durable. The fresnel globe is well-protected.
The fixed mount design makes installation simple. There isn’t really any learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Perko All-Round Light – 11-7/8 should last for several seasons. Regular cleaning with fresh water and occasional inspection of the electrical connections will help to prolong its lifespan.
Replacing the bulb is a simple task. The polymer construction is resistant to most common marine chemicals.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Perko All-Round Light – 11-7/8 comes with a 12V bulb. There aren’t many customization options.
You could replace the standard bulb with a higher-wattage bulb for increased brightness, but this might shorten the bulb’s lifespan and could potentially damage the light fixture. LED replacement bulbs are available, providing a more energy-efficient and longer-lasting alternative. Ensure any replacement bulb is compatible with the light fixture and the boat’s electrical system.
Pros and Cons of Perko All-Round Light – 11-7/8
Pros
- Simple and easy to install due to its fixed mount design.
- Durable polymer construction resists corrosion.
- Meets legal requirements for vessels under 20 meters.
- Affordable price point makes it a good value for basic needs.
- Gold-plated contacts enhance electrical reliability.
Cons
- Bulb-based system is less energy-efficient than LED alternatives.
- 2 NM visibility might be insufficient in adverse weather conditions.
- Polymer pole can vibrate slightly at higher speeds.
Who Should Buy Perko All-Round Light – 11-7/8?
The Perko All-Round Light – 11-7/8 is perfect for recreational boaters, anglers, and anyone who needs a reliable and affordable all-round light for a small vessel (under 20 meters). It’s a good choice for those who prioritize simplicity and ease of installation over advanced features.
Those who require maximum visibility in all weather conditions or who prefer the energy efficiency and longevity of LED lights should skip this product. Additionally, boaters who frequently operate in rough seas might find the polymer pole too flexible and prefer a more rigid option.
A must-have modification would be upgrading to an LED replacement bulb for increased efficiency and lifespan. Carrying a spare bulb is also recommended.
Conclusion on Perko All-Round Light – 11-7/8
The Perko All-Round Light – 11-7/8 is a solid, no-frills option for boaters seeking a reliable and affordable all-round light. While it lacks the advanced features and energy efficiency of LED alternatives, it delivers dependable performance in most conditions. Its simple design and durable construction make it a good value for the price.
At $72.59, the price is justified for what you get: a basic, functional light that meets legal requirements. It’s not the most advanced or feature-rich option on the market, but it gets the job done.
I would recommend the Perko All-Round Light – 11-7/8 to boaters who need a simple, reliable, and affordable stern light. Just be aware of its limitations and consider upgrading to an LED bulb for improved performance. If you’re looking for a dependable, no-nonsense light that won’t break the bank, the Perko All-Round Light – 11-7/8 is worth considering. So, get yours today and stay safe on the water!