First Impressions of Raymarine AXIOM/AXIOM+ 7 Trunnion Mounted Suncover
The sun, especially when reflecting off the water, can be a brutal enemy to any marine electronics display. That’s why when I recently upgraded my fishing boat’s electronics to a Raymarine AXIOM+ 7 chartplotter/fishfinder, I knew I needed a reliable sun cover. The Raymarine AXIOM/AXIOM+ 7 Trunnion Mounted Suncover promised to be just that – a simple, effective solution to shield my investment from harmful UV rays and glare.
As an experienced angler who spends countless hours on the water, protecting my gear is paramount. I was looking for a sun cover that was durable, easy to install, and wouldn’t obstruct my view of the display or interfere with its functionality. This Raymarine cover seemed like the obvious choice, given its compatibility with my AXIOM+ 7.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel of the suncover. The molded plastic felt robust and well-made, hinting at long-term durability. The textured finish gave it a non-slip surface, and the overall design seemed purpose-built for the AXIOM/AXIOM+ 7 display.
Compared to universal sunshades, which often require awkward mounting and can be prone to slipping, the Raymarine suncover’s trunnion mount promised a secure and integrated fit. I considered a DIY solution but decided against it, preferring the peace of mind that comes with a factory-made product designed specifically for my equipment. My initial impression was positive, and I was eager to get it installed and tested on the water.
Real-World Testing: Putting Raymarine AXIOM/AXIOM+ 7 Trunnion Mounted Suncover to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Raymarine AXIOM/AXIOM+ 7 Trunnion Mounted Suncover during a week-long fishing trip in the Florida Keys. The conditions ranged from overcast mornings to intensely sunny afternoons. The cover proved its worth immediately.
The harsh glare that usually washes out the display was significantly reduced, allowing me to clearly see the sonar readings and chart details even under direct sunlight. I didn’t have to squint or constantly adjust the display brightness, which improved my situational awareness and reduced eye strain. Installation was a breeze, snapping securely onto the trunnion mount with no tools required.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Raymarine AXIOM/AXIOM+ 7 Trunnion Mounted Suncover continues to perform admirably. It shows no signs of fading or cracking, despite prolonged exposure to sun, salt, and spray. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick rinse with fresh water.
I’ve found that the cover not only protects the display from sunlight but also offers a degree of protection from rain and spray. While not waterproof, it effectively deflects water, keeping the screen cleaner and preventing water spots. Compared to my previous experience of using no sun cover and constantly wiping down the screen, the Raymarine cover has significantly improved the longevity and readability of my AXIOM+ 7 display.
Breaking Down the Features of Raymarine AXIOM/AXIOM+ 7 Trunnion Mounted Suncover
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Raymarine.
- Display Size: 7in – designed specifically for the Raymarine AXIOM/AXIOM+ 7 displays, ensuring a perfect fit.
- Mount Type: Trunnion mounted, providing a secure and stable attachment.
- Material: Durable molded plastic, built to withstand harsh marine environments.
- Purpose: Protects the display from sun glare, UV rays, and light spray, enhancing visibility and extending the lifespan of the electronics.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the cover’s ability to perform its primary function: protecting the display and enhancing visibility. The trunnion mount ensures a secure fit, preventing the cover from slipping or detaching during rough seas. The durable plastic construction ensures that the cover can withstand the rigors of marine use.
Performance & Functionality
The Raymarine AXIOM/AXIOM+ 7 Trunnion Mounted Suncover excels at reducing glare and protecting the display from sunlight. It significantly improves screen visibility, especially in bright, sunny conditions, making it easier to read charts, sonar data, and other critical information.
A minor weakness is that the cover adds a small amount of bulk to the overall display, but this is a negligible trade-off for the added protection and enhanced visibility. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations, providing a simple yet effective solution to a common problem.
Design & Ergonomics
The Raymarine AXIOM/AXIOM+ 7 Trunnion Mounted Suncover boasts a functional and unobtrusive design. It’s lightweight and doesn’t add significant weight to the overall unit. The textured surface provides a good grip, making it easy to handle even with wet hands.
The cover is incredibly user-friendly, requiring no tools or complicated installation procedures. Simply snap it onto the trunnion mount, and it’s ready to go.
Durability & Maintenance
The durable molded plastic construction suggests that the Raymarine AXIOM/AXIOM+ 7 Trunnion Mounted Suncover will last for many years. It’s designed to withstand the harsh marine environment, including prolonged exposure to sun, salt, and spray.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only a quick rinse with fresh water to remove salt and grime. There are no moving parts or delicate components that require special care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Raymarine AXIOM/AXIOM+ 7 Trunnion Mounted Suncover is designed as a standalone accessory and doesn’t offer extensive customization options. Its primary purpose is to protect the display, and it achieves this function effectively without the need for additional accessories.
While it doesn’t directly integrate with other accessories, it doesn’t interfere with the use of external GPS antennas or other Raymarine components. It’s a simple, effective solution focused on a single purpose.
Pros and Cons of Raymarine AXIOM/AXIOM+ 7 Trunnion Mounted Suncover
Pros
- Effective glare reduction: Significantly improves screen visibility in bright sunlight.
- Durable construction: Made from high-quality materials designed to withstand harsh marine environments.
- Easy installation: Snaps securely onto the trunnion mount with no tools required.
- Protects against UV rays: Helps prevent screen damage and fading over time.
- Simple maintenance: Easy to clean and maintain with fresh water.
Cons
- Adds a slight amount of bulk to the overall display.
- Offers no advanced features or customization options.
Who Should Buy Raymarine AXIOM/AXIOM+ 7 Trunnion Mounted Suncover?
The Raymarine AXIOM/AXIOM+ 7 Trunnion Mounted Suncover is perfect for boaters and anglers who rely on their Raymarine AXIOM/AXIOM+ 7 chartplotter/fishfinder in sunny conditions. It’s a must-have accessory for anyone who wants to protect their investment and improve screen visibility for safer and more enjoyable boating.
Those who should skip this product are boaters who primarily use their electronics at night or in shaded areas. If sunlight is not a concern, the added protection and glare reduction may not be necessary.
A must-have accompanying accessory is a screen protector to further guard against scratches and smudges. While the suncover shields from the sun, a screen protector adds an extra layer of defense against physical damage.
Conclusion on Raymarine AXIOM/AXIOM+ 7 Trunnion Mounted Suncover
The Raymarine AXIOM/AXIOM+ 7 Trunnion Mounted Suncover is a simple yet highly effective accessory that delivers on its promise. It provides essential protection from sun glare and UV rays, significantly improving screen visibility and extending the lifespan of the AXIOM/AXIOM+ 7 display.
At $73.99, the price is justified, considering the value it provides in terms of improved usability and long-term protection of expensive electronics. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to any Raymarine AXIOM/AXIOM+ 7 owner who wants to enhance their boating experience and protect their investment. Don’t let the sun ruin your day on the water – invest in the Raymarine AXIOM/AXIOM+ 7 Trunnion Mounted Suncover and enjoy clear, unobstructed views of your crucial marine data.