Let’s Talk About Perko 1611DP3CHR Telescoping Pole Light 26 1/2″
The Perko 1611DP3CHR Telescoping Pole Light 26 1/2″ is designed for marine use, providing essential visibility for boating safety, especially during low-light conditions. Manufactured by Perko, a trusted name in marine hardware, this light features a telescoping pole for adjustable height and a chrome-plated base for corrosion resistance. It’s a simple yet crucial piece of equipment for any boat owner who values safety and adheres to navigation regulations.
I needed a reliable, adjustable stern light for my small fishing boat. The existing light was fixed and often obscured when I had gear loaded, making me feel unsafe during early morning or late evening fishing trips. I wanted something that offered both height adjustability and marine-grade durability.
Upon unboxing, the Perko light felt surprisingly solid. The chrome-plated zinc alloy base had a reassuring heft, and the black polymer top of the globe seemed well-made. The telescoping pole extended smoothly, and the locking collar felt secure, which was a relief.
I considered a couple of other options, like the Attwood LED Pole Light and a similar model from SeaSense. Ultimately, I chose the Perko 1611DP3CHR Telescoping Pole Light 26 1/2″ because of Perko’s reputation for quality and the positive reviews regarding the durability of the chrome-plated base. The other options seemed to cut corners on materials, which worried me given the harsh marine environment.
My first impression was positive. The light felt more robust than I anticipated, and I appreciated the simplicity of the design. It wasn’t flashy, but it looked like a reliable piece of equipment that would get the job done, which is exactly what I wanted.
Real-World Testing: Putting Perko 1611DP3CHR Telescoping Pole Light 26 1/2″ to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Perko 1611DP3CHR Telescoping Pole Light 26 1/2″ during a nighttime fishing trip on a local lake. Conditions were calm, but the surrounding shoreline was poorly lit, making visibility crucial. Installation was simple, and the included mounting base worked perfectly.
The light performed admirably. The white translucent globe provided a clear, 360-degree beam that was easily visible from a distance. Adjusting the telescoping pole was straightforward, allowing me to raise the light above my fishing gear for optimal visibility. There were no issues, and I felt much safer knowing I was clearly visible to other boats.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Perko 1611DP3CHR Telescoping Pole Light 26 1/2″ has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of rust or corrosion on the chrome-plated base, despite being exposed to saltwater spray. The black polymer top remains in good condition, with no cracks or fading.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. I just wipe down the light with a damp cloth after each use to remove any salt or grime. Compared to my previous, cheaper stern light, the Perko performs significantly better. It’s more durable, provides better visibility, and requires minimal maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Perko 1611DP3CHR Telescoping Pole Light 26 1/2″
Specifications
- Material: The base is made from chrome-plated zinc alloy, providing excellent corrosion resistance in marine environments. The globe is constructed of white translucent polymer, ensuring even light distribution.
- Dimensions: The base measures 3-3/4″ x 1-5/8″, offering a compact footprint for easy mounting. The pole is 3/4″ anodized aluminum, providing a good balance of strength and lightweight design.
- Bulb: It includes a 12V bulb, a standard voltage for most marine electrical systems. This ensures compatibility and ease of replacement.
- Height: The telescoping pole extends to 26 1/2″, allowing for adjustable visibility. This is critical to ensure the light is visible above any obstructions on your boat.
- Features: A locking collar on the pole ensures it stays at the desired height. This is a simple but important feature for preventing the light from collapsing during use. A mounting base is also included for easy installation.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the light’s durability, visibility, and ease of use. The chrome-plated base is critical for preventing corrosion, while the adjustable height ensures optimal visibility. The included mounting base makes installation straightforward, even for those with limited experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Perko 1611DP3CHR Telescoping Pole Light 26 1/2″ excels at its primary job: providing reliable, visible lighting for boating safety. The 360-degree beam is easily seen from a distance, even in low-light conditions. The telescoping pole adjusts smoothly and locks securely, allowing you to customize the height for optimal visibility.
The main strength is its reliability and durability. The chrome-plated base and anodized aluminum pole are built to withstand the harsh marine environment. The only minor weakness is that the included bulb is a standard incandescent, which draws more power than an LED.
The light definitely meets my expectations. It’s a simple, well-built product that does exactly what it’s supposed to do.
Design & Ergonomics
The Perko light features a simple, functional design. The materials are high-quality, and the construction feels solid. The weight is reasonable, neither too heavy nor too light.
The light is extremely user-friendly. There’s no learning curve involved. Simply mount the base, insert the pole, and extend it to the desired height.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Perko 1611DP3CHR Telescoping Pole Light 26 1/2″ should last for many years. The chrome-plated base is highly resistant to corrosion, and the anodized aluminum pole is strong and durable.
Maintenance is minimal. Simply wipe down the light with a damp cloth after each use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The light comes with a mounting base and a 12V bulb. There aren’t many customization options for this type of product. However, you could easily replace the incandescent bulb with an LED bulb for increased efficiency and longer lifespan.
The light is compatible with any standard marine electrical system. Replacing the bulb is a straightforward process.
Pros and Cons of Perko 1611DP3CHR Telescoping Pole Light 26 1/2″
Pros
- Durable Construction: The chrome-plated zinc alloy base and anodized aluminum pole are built to withstand harsh marine environments.
- Adjustable Height: The telescoping pole allows for customized visibility.
- Easy Installation: The included mounting base makes installation simple and straightforward.
- Reliable Performance: Provides a clear, 360-degree beam for enhanced safety.
- Trusted Brand: Perko is a reputable manufacturer with a long history of producing quality marine hardware.
Cons
- Incandescent Bulb: The included bulb is less energy-efficient than an LED.
- Basic Design: The design is functional but not particularly stylish.
Who Should Buy Perko 1611DP3CHR Telescoping Pole Light 26 1/2″?
The Perko 1611DP3CHR Telescoping Pole Light 26 1/2″ is perfect for boat owners who prioritize safety and reliability. It’s an essential piece of equipment for anyone who operates a boat in low-light conditions, whether it’s for fishing, cruising, or any other water activity. Pro anglers and recreational boaters alike will appreciate the durability and functionality of this light.
Those looking for a flashy, high-tech lighting solution should skip this product. It’s a basic, functional light designed for reliability, not aesthetics.
A must-have modification would be to replace the incandescent bulb with an LED bulb. This will significantly reduce power consumption and extend the lifespan of the bulb.
Conclusion on Perko 1611DP3CHR Telescoping Pole Light 26 1/2″
The Perko 1611DP3CHR Telescoping Pole Light 26 1/2″ is a reliable and durable marine lighting solution. It provides essential visibility for boating safety.
At $55.99, the price is justified given the quality of the materials and the reliability of the Perko brand. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who values safety on the water.
I would definitely recommend this light. It’s a simple, well-built product that does its job effectively. If you need a dependable stern light for your boat, the Perko 1611DP3CHR Telescoping Pole Light 26 1/2″ is an excellent choice. Don’t compromise on safety – get yours today!