First Impressions of Danielson License Holder 436027
The Danielson License Holder 436027 is a deceptively simple product, designed to solve a surprisingly common problem. Anyone who’s ever scrambled for their fishing license at the bottom of a tackle box or fumbled for their hunting permit in the cold will immediately appreciate the concept. For a mere $2.84, Danielson promises to keep your license safe and readily accessible, offering both a lanyard and a pin-on option for versatile carry.
My old system for carrying my licenses was a mess. I usually ended up folding them into a Ziploc bag and stuffing them into a pocket. This led to crumpled, illegible licenses and frantic searches whenever a game warden or conservation officer appeared. I was looking for a solution that was both durable and convenient, something that wouldn’t add bulk or weight.
Upon receiving the Danielson License Holder 436027, my initial impression was… well, it’s exactly what you’d expect for the price. It’s lightweight, constructed of what appears to be a fairly standard plastic, and the build quality seems adequate for its intended purpose. The lanyard is a basic woven cord, and the pin on the alternative version appears secure enough.
Compared to a more robust waterproof license holder I considered (priced around $10), the Danielson offering is significantly less expensive but also feels less durable. I also looked at a magnetic license holder, but worried about it attaching to random metal objects in my bag. Ultimately, I chose the Danielson License Holder 436027 for its simplicity and low cost, hoping it would provide a functional solution without breaking the bank.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It’s a budget-friendly solution that looks like it will solve my immediate problem. I wasn’t expecting premium quality at this price point, but I was hoping for something functional and reasonably durable.
Real-World Testing: Putting Danielson License Holder 436027 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Danielson License Holder 436027 on a week-long fishing trip to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) in northern Minnesota. This environment provided a good mix of conditions, from sunny days on the water to damp evenings in camp. I opted for the lanyard version, attaching it to my fishing vest for easy access.
The holder performed adequately in dry conditions, keeping my license visible and protected from minor splashes. However, during a brief but intense rainstorm, I noticed that water seeped into the holder. It wasn’t a deluge, but enough to dampen the license inside.
The ease of use was excellent; simply sliding the license in and out of the holder was effortless. I did not need any time to get used to using the Danielson License Holder 436027. However, I did notice the plastic felt a bit flimsy when trying to reseal it after inserting the license.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple fishing trips and a few days spent at the shooting range (where I also need to have my permit on me), the Danielson License Holder 436027 shows some minor wear and tear. The plastic has a few scratches, and the lanyard is starting to fray slightly. But, overall, the Danielson License Holder 436027 is still functional.
The plastic holder itself hasn’t cracked or broken, which is a plus. However, the “seal” on the holder isn’t great, and it definitely won’t keep your license dry in heavy rain. I’ve also found that the lanyard can be a bit annoying, swinging around and occasionally getting caught on things.
Compared to my previous Ziploc bag system, the Danielson License Holder 436027 is a definite improvement in terms of accessibility and preventing license crumpling. However, it falls short in terms of durability and water resistance compared to more expensive options I’ve used in the past. It does what it promises to do, but it’s not a long-term solution.
Breaking Down the Features of Danielson License Holder 436027
Specifications
The Danielson License Holder 436027, manufactured by Danielson, is a simple, inexpensive license holder designed to protect and display fishing or hunting licenses. It is available in two versions: one with an included lanyard and another with a pin-on attachment. The product lacks any listed “Additional Features” besides the two attachment methods.
The low price reflects the simple design and materials. The plastic construction keeps the holder lightweight and affordable. The choice between lanyard and pin-on options offers some versatility in how the holder can be carried.
Performance & Functionality
The Danielson License Holder 436027 performs its primary function adequately: it holds a license. It allows for relatively easy insertion and removal. The lanyard version allows for hands-free carry.
However, the holder lacks any true weather protection. The plastic is not waterproof, and the closure is not airtight. The overall durability is questionable, and the plastic could crack under stress or in extreme temperatures. It meets the bare minimum expectation of holding a license, but doesn’t exceed it.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is straightforward and utilitarian. The plastic is clear, allowing for easy viewing of the license. The lanyard is a simple woven cord.
The holder is lightweight and doesn’t add significant bulk. There is no learning curve; it is immediately user-friendly. However, the plastic feels cheap, and the overall design lacks any aesthetic appeal.
Durability & Maintenance
The Danielson License Holder 436027‘s durability is a major concern. The thin plastic is susceptible to scratches and cracks. The lanyard is likely to fray over time.
Maintenance is simple. The holder can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. However, the lack of durability means it is unlikely to last for more than a season or two of regular use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Danielson License Holder 436027 comes with either a lanyard or a pin. There are no other included accessories. There are no official customization options.
Because it is a simple holder, it’s unlikely to be compatible with any specialized accessories from other brands. You could theoretically replace the lanyard with a higher-quality cord, but that’s the extent of potential “customization.”
Pros and Cons of Danielson License Holder 436027
Pros
- Inexpensive: At around $3, it’s one of the most affordable license holders available.
- Lightweight and Compact: It adds minimal bulk and weight.
- Easy to Use: Simply slide your license in and out.
- Lanyard or Pin Option: Offers some versatility in how you carry it.
- Clear Visibility: Allows for easy viewing of the license.
Cons
- Poor Weather Protection: Not waterproof or even water-resistant.
- Low Durability: Thin plastic is prone to scratches and cracks.
- Cheap Feel: The materials and construction lack quality.
Who Should Buy Danielson License Holder 436027?
The Danielson License Holder 436027 is perfect for casual anglers or hunters who need a basic, inexpensive way to carry their license and don’t expect to encounter harsh weather conditions. It’s a good option for someone on a tight budget or for a backup license holder. It’s perfect for someone who loses things easily and doesn’t want to worry about an expensive license holder.
Someone who needs a durable, waterproof license holder for frequent use in demanding environments should skip this product. Anyone who values quality and longevity should invest in a more robust option. Those who fish or hunt in harsh conditions where licenses frequently get wet should also skip this product.
A better lanyard and some kind of waterproofing treatment would be must-have modifications. A small desiccant packet inside the holder might help keep the license dry, but would need frequent replacement.
Conclusion on Danielson License Holder 436027
The Danielson License Holder 436027 is a bare-bones solution for a simple problem. It provides a basic level of protection and visibility for your license at an incredibly low price point. It is not the most durable or weatherproof option, but it does what it promises to do – hold your license.
The price is justified for what you get. You shouldn’t expect premium quality for around $3. If you understand its limitations, the Danielson License Holder 436027 can be a useful, temporary solution.
I would recommend it with reservations. It’s a decent option for casual users on a budget, but I would advise investing in a better license holder if you are a frequent outdoor adventurer. For now, I’ll keep using it, but I’ll be keeping an eye out for a more durable replacement. Don’t let your license be a liability – grab a holder, any holder, and keep fishing!