Let’s Talk About Beckson Marine 4″ Stow-Away Deck Plate
The Beckson Marine 4″ Stow-Away Deck Plate promises a simple solution to a common problem on boats: where to safely stash small essentials. Beckson Marine aims to provide a secure, easily accessible storage compartment that blends seamlessly into your boat’s deck. With a focus on convenience and protection from the elements, this deck plate seemed like a promising addition to my gear.
I’m constantly searching for better ways to organize and protect items on my kayak during fishing trips. Losing my car keys overboard, even temporarily, is a recurring nightmare scenario. This product seemed like it could offer peace of mind.
Upon receiving the Beckson Marine 4″ Stow-Away Deck Plate, my initial impression was positive. The plate felt solid and well-constructed, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand marine conditions. Its compact size seemed ideal for stashing small essentials without taking up excessive deck space.
Compared to simple dry bags or unsecured compartments, the Beckson Marine 4″ Stow-Away Deck Plate offered a more secure and integrated solution. I chose it over similar screw-in deck plates with larger diameters because of its compact size and promise of easy installation. The reviews touted its watertight seal.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. I was excited by the potential for secure, dry storage, but also concerned about the actual ease of installation and the long-term durability of the seal. At $61.99, I hoped it would deliver on its promises.
Real-World Testing: Putting Beckson Marine 4″ Stow-Away Deck Plate to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was during a day-long kayak fishing trip on a brackish river. I installed the Beckson Marine 4″ Stow-Away Deck Plate on the flat deck surface near my seat. I placed my car keys, wallet, and sunglasses inside the nylon bag.
The weather was variable, with intermittent light rain and moderate splashing. The deck plate remained secure throughout the day. Retrieving my belongings was quick and simple.
The installation was surprisingly straightforward, requiring only basic tools and some careful measuring. However, the nylon bag’s attachment felt a little flimsy when pulling items out. This made me question its long-term durability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Beckson Marine 4″ Stow-Away Deck Plate continues to perform adequately. There are no noticeable signs of wear or fading. It still offers convenient storage.
The deck plate itself remains watertight, but the nylon bag is showing some slight fraying at the seams. I’ve been extra careful to avoid overstuffing it. Regular rinsing with fresh water helps to prevent salt buildup and maintain the seal.
Compared to previous attempts at securing small items on my kayak, this is a significant improvement in terms of accessibility and protection from splashes. However, the nylon bag’s fragility leaves me wanting a more robust interior storage solution. It does not outperform expectations significantly, more like meets the very base level of them.
Breaking Down the Features of Beckson Marine 4″ Stow-Away Deck Plate
Specifications
The Beckson Marine 4″ Stow-Away Deck Plate is a small, circular access plate designed for marine use. It features a 4-inch diameter opening and is constructed from durable, UV-resistant plastic. The included nylon bag provides a convenient storage space for small items inside the compartment.
The size allows for easy installation in tight spaces and is suitable for stashing small valuables. The UV-resistant plastic ensures the deck plate can withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight without becoming brittle or discolored. The nylon bag, while convenient, dictates the maximum size of the items you can store, and it being the storage component of the deck plate, it should have been made from a more sturdy material.
Performance & Functionality
The Beckson Marine 4″ Stow-Away Deck Plate excels at providing a secure and watertight storage compartment for small essentials. It protects valuables from splashes, rain, and accidental submersion. The twist-and-seal mechanism is easy to operate.
The primary strength is its ability to keep water out, even in choppy conditions. A notable weakness is the fragility of the nylon bag. While functional, it’s the weak link in the system.
It meets basic expectations for dry storage but doesn’t exceed them due to the bag’s limitations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Beckson Marine 4″ Stow-Away Deck Plate features a simple, low-profile design that blends seamlessly with most boat decks. The plastic construction is lightweight and durable. The twist-and-seal mechanism is easy to operate with one hand.
The flush design minimizes obstruction on the deck. The material feels sturdy but lacks a premium feel. The bag is easy to use but might be better replaced with a more sturdy plastic bin.
The installation is straightforward but requires precise cutting of the mounting hole.
Durability & Maintenance
The plastic deck plate should last for many years with proper care. The nylon bag is the most vulnerable component and may require occasional replacement. Regular cleaning with soap and water will keep the deck plate looking its best.
The plastic is resistant to most marine chemicals, and the UV resistance helps prevent degradation from sunlight exposure. The bag is susceptible to mildew and should be dried thoroughly after exposure to saltwater. The longevity of the bag depends on usage frequency and load.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Beckson Marine 4″ Stow-Away Deck Plate comes with the nylon bag. There are limited customization options. One could potentially replace the nylon bag with a custom-fabricated plastic container.
Third-party accessories are not readily available specifically for this deck plate. One could potentially use aftermarket adhesive organizers inside the compartment, but the small space significantly limits options. Adding a small LED light could enhance visibility inside the compartment.
Pros and Cons of Beckson Marine 4″ Stow-Away Deck Plate
Pros
- Watertight seal keeps valuables dry and protected.
- Easy to install and operate.
- Low-profile design minimizes obstruction on deck.
- Provides convenient and accessible storage for small items.
- UV-resistant plastic construction ensures long-term durability.
Cons
- The nylon bag is the weakest link and prone to fraying.
- Relatively expensive for what it is.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Beckson Marine 4″ Stow-Away Deck Plate?
The Beckson Marine 4″ Stow-Away Deck Plate is perfect for: kayak anglers, small boat owners, and anyone needing secure, dry storage for small valuables on their vessel. It is ideal for stashing keys, wallets, phones, and other small essentials.
People who require larger storage capacity or need exceptionally durable interior storage should skip this product. Those prioritizing affordability over watertight security may find cheaper alternatives.
A must-have modification would be to replace the nylon bag with a small, rigid plastic container for enhanced durability. Regularly applying a UV protectant to the plastic can prolong its lifespan.
Conclusion on Beckson Marine 4″ Stow-Away Deck Plate
The Beckson Marine 4″ Stow-Away Deck Plate offers a convenient solution for small-item storage on boats. The watertight seal and easy operation are definite positives. However, the fragility of the nylon bag is a significant drawback.
At $61.99, the price feels a bit steep considering the bag’s limitations. A more robust interior storage solution would significantly enhance the value proposition. It is important to consider this before deciding on the product.
I would cautiously recommend it to those prioritizing a watertight seal and easy access, but only with the understanding that the nylon bag may require eventual replacement. Consider the Beckson Marine 4″ Stow-Away Deck Plate if you need basic, compact, dry storage and are prepared to potentially upgrade the interior bag down the line.