Let’s Talk About Perko Coastal Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade immersed in the world of boats and equipment, navigation lights aren’t just accessories to me; they’re lifelines. That’s why I was excited to get my hands on the Perko Coastal Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in. Perko is a well-known name in the marine industry, and this particular model promises enhanced visibility with its reduced glare design, a crucial feature for nighttime navigation.
Living on the coast, and frequently navigating through coastal waterways, I was looking for a dependable all-round navigation light that wouldn’t blind me with reflected light, particularly during choppy conditions. I needed something that would cut through the darkness and allow me to be seen by other vessels, while also preserving my night vision.
Upon unboxing, the Perko Coastal Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in felt surprisingly robust, despite its predominantly polymer construction. The clear fluted lens and frosted top seemed well-integrated, and the aluminum tube felt sturdy. It was lighter than I expected, which is a definite plus for mounting and storage.
I considered other options from Attwood and Shoreline Marine, but Perko’s reputation for quality and the “reduced glare” feature swayed my decision. The others lacked the specific glare-reducing design that seemed so important for my needs.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism; the build seemed decent, and the design was promising, but the true test would be on the water. This Perko navigation light had the potential to be a game-changer, but I’ve learned that appearances can be deceiving.
Real-World Testing: Putting Perko Coastal Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Perko Coastal Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in on a late-night fishing trip in the bay. The conditions were less than ideal: choppy water, a slight drizzle, and the typical ambient light pollution from nearby coastal towns.
The light performed admirably, cutting through the darkness with a bright, clear beam. The reduced glare design lived up to its promise, minimizing reflections off the boat’s surface and allowing me to maintain better night vision. It was significantly easier to spot distant markers and other vessels compared to my previous, standard navigation light. There was minimal learning curve involved; installation was straightforward using my existing Perko base.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Perko Coastal Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in has proven to be a reliable piece of equipment. It’s endured numerous fishing trips, a few unexpected rainstorms, and the constant exposure to saltwater without any noticeable degradation.
The polymer top and collar have held up well, showing no signs of cracking or fading. Cleaning is simple; a quick rinse with fresh water after each trip keeps it looking new. Compared to my older, less expensive navigation lights, the Perko model has clearly outperformed them in terms of brightness, glare reduction, and overall durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Perko Coastal Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in
Specifications
- Pole Length: 54 inches. This length provides sufficient height for visibility, ensuring the light is not obstructed by the boat’s structure or passengers.
- Pole Rake: 0 degrees. This vertical alignment makes it easier to install.
- Collar Type: Locking Collar. The locking collar fits Perko bases 1045, 1046, 1047, 1059, & 1060, providing a secure and stable connection to existing Perko bases.
- Construction: Polymer top and collar with a clear fluted lens, frosted top, and a ¾” aluminum tube. This blend of materials offers a balance between durability, weight, and corrosion resistance.
- Bulb: 12-volt (included). Easy to find and replace when necessary.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the light’s performance and usability. The length ensures visibility, the locking collar simplifies installation, and the materials provide durability in a marine environment.
Performance & Functionality
The Perko Coastal Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in excels in its primary function: providing a bright, 360-degree light for navigation. The reduced glare design is a significant improvement over standard lights, enhancing visibility and preserving night vision.
The light’s strengths lie in its brightness, ease of installation, and effective glare reduction. One area for potential improvement would be offering an LED bulb option for increased energy efficiency and longer lifespan.
It meets and, in some aspects, exceeds my expectations. The reduced glare feature alone makes it a worthwhile upgrade.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Perko Coastal Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in is solid. The materials feel durable, and the overall design is functional and aesthetically pleasing.
The light is user-friendly and requires no special tools or expertise to install or operate. The locking collar mechanism is intuitive and provides a secure fit.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Perko Coastal Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in is built to last. The corrosion-resistant materials and sturdy construction suggest it will withstand the harsh marine environment for years to come.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with fresh water. The bulb is easily accessible and replaceable.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Perko Coastal Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in doesn’t come with a wide range of accessories or customization options. However, its compatibility with existing Perko bases offers some flexibility in terms of mounting options.
While the bulb is a standard 12-volt type, users could potentially upgrade to an LED bulb for improved efficiency and lifespan.
Pros and Cons of Perko Coastal Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in
Pros
- Bright, 360-degree illumination for enhanced visibility.
- Reduced glare design significantly improves night vision.
- Easy to install and use with existing Perko bases.
- Durable construction with corrosion-resistant materials.
- Lightweight and easy to store when not in use.
Cons
- Standard bulb (LED upgrade would be a plus).
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Perko Coastal Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in?
The Perko Coastal Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in is perfect for boaters who frequently navigate at night, particularly in coastal waters where ambient light and choppy conditions can reduce visibility. It’s an excellent choice for recreational boaters, anglers, and anyone who values safety and clear navigation.
Anyone looking for a high level of customization or who primarily boats during daylight hours might find the features of this light less essential. A must-have addition would be a spare 12V bulb, though an upgrade to LED is recommended.
Conclusion on Perko Coastal Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in
The Perko Coastal Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in is a well-designed and reliable navigation light that delivers on its promise of enhanced visibility and reduced glare. The price of $53.99 is justified by the quality of construction and the improved performance it offers compared to standard navigation lights.
I would personally recommend this light to any boater looking to upgrade their navigation system. The enhanced safety and improved night vision make it a worthwhile investment. Don’t navigate in the dark; equip your boat with the Perko Coastal Series Reduced Glare All-Round Navigation Pole Light – 54in and see the difference for yourself!