Perko 5 deg Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 48″ Review

Let’s Talk About Perko 5 deg Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 48″

When navigating waterways at night, visibility and safety are paramount. That’s why a reliable all-round pole light is an essential piece of equipment for any boat. The Perko 5 deg Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 48″ promises to deliver just that: a durable, easy-to-install lighting solution designed to enhance visibility while minimizing glare, making nighttime boating safer and more enjoyable. Manufactured by Perko, a trusted name in marine lighting, this 48-inch pole light is designed for power-driven vessels under 20 meters, making it suitable for a wide range of boats.

My interest in this particular model stemmed from a frustrating experience with my previous pole light. It was constantly flickering, the glare was blinding, and it ultimately failed during a late-night return trip. The promise of reduced glare and Perko’s reputation for quality led me to consider this light as a potential replacement.

Upon unboxing the Perko 5 deg Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 48″, my initial impression was positive. The anodized aluminum tube felt solid and well-constructed, and the overall design seemed straightforward and functional. It felt lighter than my old pole light, which was a welcome surprise.

Compared to cheaper, non-branded pole lights I’ve used in the past, the Perko immediately stood out in terms of build quality. I also considered the Attwood LED pole light, known for its energy efficiency, and a similar model from SeaSense, which boasted a lower price point. I chose the Perko, however, because of its balance of durability, reduced glare, and proven track record within the marine community.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While the initial build quality seemed promising, the true test would come with real-world use on the water. I was eager to see if the reduced glare design would live up to its claims and if the light would prove to be a reliable and long-lasting addition to my boat.


Real-World Testing: Putting Perko 5 deg Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 48″ to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Perko 5 deg Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 48″ during a late-evening fishing trip on a local lake. I needed to navigate back to the dock after sunset, making the pole light essential for visibility and compliance with boating regulations. The conditions were relatively calm, but there was a light mist in the air.

The Perko light performed admirably in these conditions. The reduced glare design made a noticeable difference, minimizing reflections off the water and mist, and improving overall visibility. Installation was straightforward, utilizing the existing base from my previous light; the selective use of screw holes made it adaptable.

I was pleasantly surprised by how easily the Perko light integrated into my boat’s existing electrical system. I encountered no issues with the bulb or wiring, and the light provided a consistent and bright illumination. The ease of use was a definite plus.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including multiple nighttime fishing trips and early morning excursions, the Perko 5 deg Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 48″ has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. I’ve used it in both freshwater and saltwater environments.

There are no signs of wear and tear. The anodized aluminum tube has held up well against the elements, showing no signs of corrosion or fading. I’ve made sure to rinse it with freshwater after each saltwater use.

Maintenance has been minimal, primarily involving wiping down the lens with a clean cloth to remove any salt spray or grime. The light has consistently outperformed my previous pole light in terms of brightness, glare reduction, and overall reliability. It has definitely exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Perko 5 deg Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 48″

Specifications

The Perko 5 deg Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 48″ boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and suitability for marine use. It’s designed for use on power-driven vessels under 20 meters (65.6 feet) in length, making it compliant with navigation regulations for most recreational boats. The light features a 3/4″ diameter anodized aluminum tube for durability and corrosion resistance.

The included bulb is a standard 12-volt marine bulb. The light’s reduced glare design minimizes reflections and improves visibility in low-light conditions. The selective use of screw holes and/or a collar allows for versatile installation options.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the light’s performance and longevity in a marine environment. The 12-volt bulb ensures compatibility with most boat electrical systems. The anodized aluminum tube provides excellent resistance to corrosion, essential for saltwater use. The reduced glare design dramatically enhances safety and comfort during nighttime navigation.

Performance & Functionality

The Perko 5 deg Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 48″ performs its primary function of providing all-round visibility exceptionally well. The light is bright and consistent, ensuring that your boat is visible to other vessels in low-light conditions. The reduced glare design is a significant improvement over traditional pole lights.

The light’s greatest strength is its ability to provide clear visibility without creating distracting glare. The simple design means easy use. A minor area for improvement might be the base, which is sold separately, potentially adding to the overall cost.

Overall, the Perko light meets and exceeds expectations. It is a reliable, effective, and well-designed marine lighting solution.

Design & Ergonomics

The Perko 5 deg Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 48″ features a simple and functional design. The anodized aluminum tube is lightweight yet durable. The overall weight of the unit is minimal.

The light is easy to handle and install. The selective use of screw holes allows for flexible mounting options. There is essentially no learning curve to using this light.

Durability & Maintenance

The Perko 5 deg Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 48″ is built to last. The anodized aluminum tube is highly resistant to corrosion and the overall construction feels solid and durable. With proper care, this light should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple, primarily involving rinsing with freshwater after saltwater use and wiping down the lens. Bulb replacement is straightforward when needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Perko 5 deg Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 48″ is a relatively simple lighting solution and does not offer extensive customization options. The primary accessory to consider is the base, which is sold separately.

While you cannot significantly customize the light itself, you could potentially use different types of 12-volt bulbs. The light is compatible with standard marine pole light bases from Perko and other brands.

Pros and Cons of Perko 5 deg Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 48″

Pros

  • Reduced glare design: Significantly improves visibility and reduces eye strain during nighttime boating.
  • Durable construction: Anodized aluminum tube provides excellent corrosion resistance and long-lasting performance.
  • Easy installation: Selective use of screw holes allows for versatile mounting options.
  • Bright and consistent illumination: Ensures your boat is visible to other vessels in low-light conditions.
  • Trusted brand: Perko is a well-respected name in marine lighting.

Cons

  • Base sold separately: Adds to the overall cost.
  • Limited customization options: Minimal options for further modification or enhancement.


Who Should Buy Perko 5 deg Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 48″?

The Perko 5 deg Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 48″ is perfect for boat owners who prioritize safety and visibility during nighttime navigation. It is especially well-suited for recreational boaters, anglers, and anyone who frequently operates their vessel in low-light conditions.

This product is a great fit for those needing a reliable and durable replacement pole light. It is also ideal for anyone looking to upgrade from a cheaper, less effective lighting solution.

Those seeking highly customizable or feature-rich lighting solutions may want to explore other options. Anyone unwilling to purchase a separate base should consider alternatives that include a base in the package.

A must-have accessory is a compatible Perko or equivalent marine pole light base. Carrying a spare 12-volt bulb is also recommended.

Conclusion on Perko 5 deg Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 48″

The Perko 5 deg Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 48″ is a well-designed and reliable marine lighting solution that delivers on its promise of improved visibility and reduced glare. The light’s durable construction and easy installation make it a worthwhile investment for any boat owner. It significantly enhances safety during nighttime navigation.

The price is justified by the light’s quality, performance, and long-term durability. The fact that the base is sold separately is a minor drawback but doesn’t detract from the overall value.

I would personally recommend the Perko 5 deg Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 48″ to anyone seeking a dependable and effective pole light for their boat. It’s a simple yet crucial piece of equipment that can make a significant difference in your safety and enjoyment on the water. Upgrade your boat today and experience the difference a quality pole light can make.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top