Let’s Talk About Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 60″
As someone who has spent countless hours on the water, both professionally and recreationally, I understand the critical importance of reliable navigation lighting. That’s why I was eager to get my hands on the Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 60″. It promises to deliver the necessary visibility without blinding everyone in a five-mile radius.
My primary need was to replace an aging stern light on my small fishing boat that was suffering from corrosion and a dangerously dim output. Visibility at dusk and dawn on a busy lake is non-negotiable. I hoped the Perko light would offer a bright, dependable signal while minimizing the glare that can hinder night vision.
The light arrived in a simple, no-frills package. Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the overall feel. The anodized aluminum tube felt solid and well-made. The black plastic top and clear fluted globe gave it a clean, modern look. I appreciated the stow-a-way plug-in pole feature; it hinted at thoughtful design for ease of storage.
I considered other pole lights from Attwood and SeaSense, but ultimately opted for the Perko due to its reputation for quality and the “reduced glare” claim. Glare reduction is something my old light sorely lacked, and this single feature was the deciding factor.
My initial impression was positive. It seemed like a well-built, practical solution. I was excited to get it installed and test it on the water.
Real-World Testing: Putting Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 60″ to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 60″ on a late evening fishing trip to a local lake. The lake sees a mix of sailboats, fishing boats, and recreational vessels. It offered a good test of visibility amongst varying traffic. Installation was straightforward, although I needed to purchase a separate base, which was a minor inconvenience.
The light performed admirably, even in a light drizzle. The reduced glare was noticeable compared to my old stern light. The light provided a clear, visible signal without creating an overwhelming halo. I felt confident that I was visible to other boaters.
Ease of use was excellent; simply plugging it into the base activated the light. No complicated switches or settings needed. One initial concern I had was the brightness of the bulb, I would’ve preferred a brighter bulb.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 60″ has proven to be a reliable addition to my boat. The anodized tube shows no signs of corrosion despite constant exposure to freshwater and the elements. The black plastic top hasn’t faded or cracked.
Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes to keep it clean. The stow-a-way feature has been invaluable for protecting the light during transport and storage. Compared to my previous stern light, the Perko is a clear upgrade in terms of both performance and durability. It has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 60″
Specifications
- The Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 60″ is certified for power-driven vessels under 20 meters (65.6 feet) in length. This certification is crucial for legal compliance and ensures the light meets the required visibility standards.
- It features a 12-volt bulb, providing sufficient illumination for nighttime navigation. However, I’d recommend exploring brighter LED bulb options for enhanced visibility, especially in areas with heavy boat traffic.
- The light utilizes a 3/4″ diameter anodized tube. Anodization increases corrosion resistance and overall durability.
- It includes a stow-a-way plug-in pole, simplifying storage and preventing damage. This is a practical feature that significantly improves the user experience.
- A clear fluted globe is incorporated to reduce glare. This enhances visibility for the user and other boaters.
- Finally, the light features a black plastic top, which provides a weather-resistant seal. It also offers a contrasting visual element.
Performance & Functionality
The Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 60″ performs its core function – providing visible navigation lighting – effectively. The reduced glare design is a definite advantage, minimizing eye strain during nighttime operation.
The light’s primary strength is its ease of use and reliable performance. It delivers a consistent signal without any flickering or dimming issues. A potential weakness is the light output of the included bulb. In extremely dark conditions or areas with significant background lighting, it may not be as noticeable as a brighter LED alternative. It meets expectations overall.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is solid, with the anodized aluminum tube providing a sturdy and corrosion-resistant base. The 60″ length is appropriate for most small to medium-sized boats. The light is relatively lightweight, which is important for minimizing stress on the mounting point.
The simple plug-in design makes it incredibly user-friendly. Even a novice boater could install and operate it without difficulty.
Durability & Maintenance
The anodized aluminum and durable plastic construction suggests a long lifespan, even with regular exposure to the elements. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning.
The absence of any complex mechanisms or delicate components further contributes to its long-term reliability. The Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 60″ is built to last.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 60″ does not come with any specific accessories, apart from the integral stow-a-way plug. The most common customization would be replacing the standard 12V bulb with a brighter LED alternative to enhance visibility and reduce power consumption.
The light is designed to be compatible with standard 3/4″ diameter pole light bases. This should offer broad compatibility with aftermarket mounting options.
Pros and Cons of Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 60″
Pros
- Reduced glare design significantly improves nighttime visibility.
- Durable anodized aluminum tube provides excellent corrosion resistance.
- Simple plug-in design ensures ease of use.
- Stow-a-way pole simplifies storage and protects the light.
- Reliable performance ensures consistent and dependable navigation lighting.
Cons
- Base is not included and must be purchased separately.
- The light output of the included bulb may be insufficient for all conditions.
Who Should Buy Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 60″?
The Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 60″ is perfect for recreational boaters, anglers, and weekend sailors who need a reliable and easy-to-use navigation light for their small to medium-sized vessels. Its reduced glare design makes it particularly well-suited for those who frequently boat at night or in low-light conditions.
Those who require extreme brightness or operate in very challenging conditions might consider a higher-powered LED alternative. Anyone needing a base is advised to order one simultaneously to avoid delays. I strongly suggest users consider purchasing a brighter LED bulb for optimum performance.
Conclusion on Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 60″
The Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 60″ offers a compelling combination of performance, durability, and ease of use. At $77.99, it represents a solid value proposition for boaters seeking a reliable navigation light.
The reduced glare design sets it apart from many competing products, enhancing safety and reducing eye strain. While the base is sold separately and the included bulb could be brighter, these are minor drawbacks in an otherwise excellent product.
I would personally recommend the Perko Inland Series Reduced Glare All-Round Pole Lights – 60″ to anyone looking for a dependable and glare-free navigation light for their boat. Upgrade your visibility and stay safe on the water.