Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in Review

Let’s Talk About Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in

The Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in is a crucial piece of safety equipment for any boater, especially those operating in inland waters. Manufactured by Perko, a trusted name in marine hardware, this light aims to provide clear visibility while minimizing glare, enhancing nighttime navigation. Its 54-inch pole length ensures it rises above obstructions on smaller vessels, maximizing its visibility to other boats.

For years, I’ve struggled with navigation lights that either weren’t bright enough or produced excessive glare, making it difficult to see other vessels and shoreline markers. I needed a reliable light that provided ample illumination without blinding me or other boaters. The Perko light promised reduced glare and a suitable height for my 18-foot fishing boat, making it an appealing solution.

Upon unboxing, the light felt sturdy and well-constructed. The polymer top and collar seemed durable, and the aluminum tube felt solid without being excessively heavy. The clear fluted lens looked promising for diffusing light effectively. Compared to other navigation lights I’ve used, the Perko offered a more refined design and a seemingly more robust build quality than cheaper, all-plastic alternatives.

I was cautiously optimistic. The design looked promising, but I needed to see how it performed on the water before making a final judgment. The potential for reduced glare and reliable visibility had me hopeful that this would be a worthwhile investment in safety and peace of mind.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in on a calm evening on a local lake known for its recreational boating traffic. The light was used while navigating back to the dock after sunset. The reduced glare was immediately noticeable, allowing me to see the shoreline and other boats more clearly than with my previous light.

The light performed well in the humid evening air. It remained bright and consistent throughout the two-hour test. Installation was straightforward, and the locking collar secured the light firmly in its base. Initially, I was very impressed with the improved visibility and reduced eye strain.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Perko navigation light has proven to be a reliable and valuable addition to my boat. It has been used in various conditions, from calm evenings to slightly choppy waters. The light remains secure and continues to provide excellent visibility.

The light has shown no signs of significant wear and tear. The aluminum tube is still straight, and the polymer components haven’t cracked or faded. Cleaning the lens is simple, and the light has required minimal maintenance. Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper lights that failed after a season or two, the Perko light is a clear upgrade in terms of durability and performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in

Specifications

• 12-Volt Bulb (Included): This standard voltage ensures compatibility with most boat electrical systems.
• Polymer Top and Collar with Clear Fluted Lens: The polymer construction offers durability and resistance to the elements, while the fluted lens helps to diffuse the light and reduce glare.
• 3/4″ Aluminum Tube: The aluminum tube provides a lightweight yet sturdy support for the light.
• Pole Length: 54″: The 54-inch length positions the light high enough to be visible above most obstructions on smaller boats.
• 0° Pole Rake with One Locking Collar: The zero-degree rake ensures the light is perfectly vertical, maximizing its visibility. The locking collar secures the light in the base, preventing it from wobbling or coming loose.
• Locking Collar Compatibility: The locking collar fits Figures 1045, 1046, 1047, & 1060 two-pin bases and the threaded collar fits Figure 1048 two-pin base from Perko’s Recreational Catalog.

These specifications are crucial for a navigation light. They contribute to its visibility, durability, and ease of use. The reduced glare design is particularly important, enhancing safety and reducing eye strain during nighttime navigation.

Performance & Functionality

The Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in excels in its primary function: providing reliable and visible illumination for nighttime boating. The reduced glare design significantly improves visibility. It makes navigating in low-light conditions much safer and more comfortable.

Its strengths lie in its ease of installation, durable construction, and effective light diffusion. The only minor area for improvement might be the brightness of the included bulb; some boaters might prefer a brighter LED alternative, though it functions perfectly fine as is. The light definitely meets and even slightly exceeds expectations for a navigation light in this price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The light boasts a simple, functional design. The materials feel durable and well-suited for marine environments. The light is lightweight, making it easy to handle and install, yet it feels solid and stable once mounted.

It requires minimal setup and is intuitive to use. The locking collar provides a secure fit, eliminating any concerns about the light coming loose while underway. Overall, the design is practical and effective.

Durability & Maintenance

The Perko navigation light is built to last. The combination of polymer and aluminum construction provides excellent resistance to corrosion and weathering. The light should provide many years of reliable service with proper care.

Maintenance is straightforward. Simply wiping down the lens with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep it clean and functioning optimally. The light is designed for easy bulb replacement, ensuring continued use for years to come.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in includes a 12-volt bulb and a locking collar. While it doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the bulb can be easily upgraded to an LED for increased brightness and energy efficiency. Perko offers a variety of compatible bases for different mounting configurations.

The light is compatible with standard two-pin bases, making it easy to find replacement parts or alternative mounting solutions if needed. The simple design ensures broad compatibility with aftermarket accessories.

Pros and Cons of Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in