Furuno 520-BLC Bronze Thru-Hull Review

Let’s Dive into Furuno 520-BLC Bronze Thru-Hull

The Furuno 520-BLC Bronze Thru-Hull is a 600W transducer designed to provide reliable depth and fish finding capabilities for smaller to mid-sized boats. Manufactured by Furuno, a well-respected name in marine electronics, this transducer operates on dual frequencies (50/200 kHz) and offers both wide (45°) and narrow (15°) beam angles for versatile underwater scanning. The bronze housing is a classic choice for durability and compatibility with many hull types, although careful bonding is still important.

I was looking for a replacement transducer for my 21-foot center console after the original unit, a competitor’s model, failed after only a few seasons due to corrosion. I needed something robust, reliable, and with excellent target separation for both shallow water fishing and navigating deeper channels. The Furuno 520-BLC Bronze Thru-Hull seemed to fit the bill perfectly, with its proven Furuno reputation and reasonable price point.

Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the solid feel of the bronze housing. The cable felt durable, and the included 8-pin connector appeared well-made and ready to interface with my Furuno fishfinder. Compared to the plastic housing of my previous transducer, this felt like a significant upgrade in build quality.

I considered the Airmar B60 and the Raymarine P79 as alternatives. I ultimately chose the Furuno 520-BLC Bronze Thru-Hull because of Furuno’s reputation for accuracy and reliability, and because I already have a Furuno head unit. My first impression was excitement; I hoped this transducer would finally give me the reliable performance I needed.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Furuno 520-BLC Bronze Thru-Hull to the Test

First Use Experience

My first use of the Furuno 520-BLC Bronze Thru-Hull was during a nearshore fishing trip in the Gulf of Mexico. I tested it in various depths, ranging from 10 feet inshore to about 100 feet offshore, under relatively calm sea conditions. Initial setup was straightforward, thanks to clear instructions and the compatible 8-pin connector.

The transducer performed admirably, providing clear and detailed readings of the seabed. Even in shallower, turbid waters, I was able to distinguish between different types of bottom structure, like sand, shell beds, and rocky outcroppings. There were no initial issues, and I was pleasantly surprised by the clarity of the sonar returns compared to my old transducer.

The ease of use was immediate. The Furuno head unit recognized the transducer without any complicated programming. My only surprise was how much clearer the returns were at high speed, a testament to the transducer’s ability to maintain good contact with the water.

Extended Use & Reliability

After six months of regular use, the Furuno 520-BLC Bronze Thru-Hull has proven to be a reliable and consistent performer. I’ve used it in various conditions, including choppy seas, strong currents, and even during a few light rainstorms. So far, it has held up remarkably well.

There are no signs of wear and tear on the bronze housing, and the cable remains flexible and undamaged. I’ve been careful to clean the transducer face after each trip to prevent fouling, which is a simple process involving a soft brush and mild soap. Compared to my previous experience, where the plastic housing cracked and the internal components corroded, this feels like a significant improvement in durability.

Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving cleaning the transducer face to remove any marine growth. It far outperforms my previous transducer in both clarity and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Furuno 520-BLC Bronze Thru-Hull

Specifications

The Furuno 520-BLC Bronze Thru-Hull boasts a power output of 600 Watts. This wattage is significant because it allows for deeper penetration and clearer target identification compared to lower-powered transducers. It transmits on 50/200 kHz frequencies.

The 50 kHz frequency offers a wider beam angle (45 degrees) and is ideal for deep-water scanning and locating large schools of fish. The 200 kHz frequency, with its narrower beam angle (15 degrees), provides higher resolution and better target separation in shallower waters. The bronze thru-hull design offers durability and excellent acoustic properties. Finally, the 30-foot cable with an 8-Pin Connector offers ample length for most installations and compatibility with numerous Furuno sounders.

These specifications contribute directly to the transducer’s performance and user experience. The high power and dual frequencies allow for versatile use in a variety of fishing and boating applications. The bronze housing ensures longevity, while the generous cable length and standard connector simplify installation.

Performance & Functionality

The Furuno 520-BLC Bronze Thru-Hull performs its job exceptionally well. Its accuracy in reading depth is consistently reliable, and its ability to identify fish and bottom structure is impressive. Its strengths lie in its clear target separation, deep-water penetration, and ease of use.

One potential weakness is its sensitivity to installation. Proper alignment and bonding are critical to ensure optimal performance and prevent corrosion. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a mid-range thru-hull transducer.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with a robust bronze housing that feels both durable and substantial. The bronze is a tried-and-true material for underwater applications. The unit weighs a reasonable amount for its size, lending to its feeling of quality.

It’s user-friendly and requires minimal setup. The learning curve is virtually nonexistent if you’re familiar with Furuno fishfinders.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care and maintenance, the Furuno 520-BLC Bronze Thru-Hull should last for many years. The bronze housing is resistant to corrosion and impact damage, making it well-suited for the harsh marine environment. Maintenance is straightforward, primarily involving cleaning the transducer face to remove marine growth and ensuring proper bonding to prevent galvanic corrosion.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Furuno 520-BLC Bronze Thru-Hull comes with a 30-foot cable and an 8-pin connector. There aren’t many customization options beyond ensuring it’s properly bonded to the hull. It’s designed to integrate seamlessly with Furuno fishfinders, so accessories from other brands aren’t directly compatible without adapters.

Pros and Cons of Furuno 520-BLC Bronze Thru-Hull

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Who Should Buy Furuno 520-BLC Bronze Thru-Hull?

The Furuno 520-BLC Bronze Thru-Hull is perfect for recreational anglers and boaters who want a reliable and high-performing transducer for their smaller to mid-sized boats. It’s ideal for those who fish in a variety of depths and conditions and who value clear target separation and accurate depth readings. This transducer would be a great choice for pro anglers or guides looking for a cost-effective but highly reliable tool.

Those who should skip this product are boaters who require water temperature readings directly from their transducer or those who have very limited experience with thru-hull installations.

A must-have accessory is a proper bonding system to prevent galvanic corrosion. The correct marine-grade sealant is also essential for a watertight installation.

Conclusion on Furuno 520-BLC Bronze Thru-Hull

The Furuno 520-BLC Bronze Thru-Hull is an excellent mid-range transducer that offers a great balance of performance, durability, and value. At $193.99, the price is more than justified by its reliable performance and robust construction. I am confident that this transducer will provide me with many years of trouble-free service.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Furuno 520-BLC Bronze Thru-Hull to any boater looking for a dependable and high-performing transducer. If you value reliability, accuracy, and ease of use, this is a great choice. Invest in your boating experience – get the Furuno 520-BLC Bronze Thru-Hull and see what you’ve been missing!