RUPP Marine Top Gun Mounting Plate Review

Let’s Talk About RUPP Marine Top Gun Mounting Plate

The RUPP Marine Top Gun Mounting Plate is a premium solution for securely mounting outriggers to aluminum T-tops and similar structures. RUPP Marine, a name synonymous with quality in the marine hardware industry, engineered these plates from aircraft aluminum with a durable anodized finish. What immediately sets these apart is their extruded design, promising unparalleled support and stability for your outriggers, crucial when trolling for big game.

My journey to these mounting plates stemmed from a persistent problem on my own boat. I was tired of the inadequate support my existing setup provided, leading to excessive flex and vibration when running with outriggers deployed. I needed a robust, reliable foundation that would inspire confidence, especially when targeting marlin and tuna offshore.

Unboxing the RUPP Marine Top Gun Mounting Plate was an experience that immediately spoke to quality. The weight was substantial, conveying a sense of strength, and the black anodized finish was flawless. The machining was precise, and the threaded mounting holes were clean and well-defined.

Compared to some universal mounting plates I considered, the RUPP Marine plates stood out for their specifically engineered design. I avoided some other generic options, because they lacked the structural integrity and tailored fit necessary for a long-term solution. My first impression was one of relief and excitement – these looked like they would solve the problem for good.

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Real-World Testing: Putting RUPP Marine Top Gun Mounting Plate to the Test

First Use Experience

The initial test came during a weekend tuna trip 60 miles offshore. The RUPP Marine Top Gun Mounting Plate was installed by a professional marine fabricator. I was eager to see how they would perform under real-world conditions, dealing with choppy seas and the strain of fully deployed outriggers.

Performance was immediately noticeable. The outriggers felt incredibly stable, with minimal flex or vibration, even when running at trolling speed in moderate swells. There was no need to constantly readjust my riggers.

No issues arose during that first trip, and I didn’t need any time to get used to the setup, as installation was professional. The plates instilled a newfound confidence.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including numerous offshore trips and countless hours of trolling, the RUPP Marine Top Gun Mounting Plate has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no signs of wear and tear beyond some minor cosmetic scratches, which are inevitable in a marine environment.

Maintenance is simple: rinsing with fresh water after each trip keeps them clean and prevents corrosion. These plates perform significantly better than my previous mounting system, providing a level of stability and peace of mind I never experienced before. I feel my investment has already payed off.

Breaking Down the Features of RUPP Marine Top Gun Mounting Plate

Specifications

• Material: Constructed from the highest quality aircraft aluminum, ensuring exceptional strength and corrosion resistance. This is crucial for withstanding the harsh marine environment.
• Finish: Protected by a tough anodized coating, providing an additional layer of protection against corrosion and wear. The black anodized finish also gives the plates a sleek, professional look.
• Design: Extruded design offers maximum support when mounting outriggers into an aluminum T-Top or similar structure. The extruded shape greatly improves the plates’ rigidity.
• Mounting Options: Machined openings are available in horizontal or 10-degree offset configurations. This caters to different T-top designs and outrigger mounting preferences.
• Dimensions: Horizontal plates are 30″ in length, while 10-degree offset plates are 20″ in length; both can be cut to fit specific applications. This allows for customization to fit a wide range of T-top sizes.
• Mounting Hole Pattern: Features a 2.50″ center hole with 5/16-18 threaded mounting holes at 3″ x 5″ centers. This standard pattern ensures compatibility with most outrigger bases.
• Plate Dimensions: Each plate measures 5.125″ in width and .875″ in thickness. These dimensions provide a substantial mounting surface without being overly bulky.
• Quantity: Sold as a pair. Having two plates makes installation easier and offers symmetrical support.

Performance & Functionality

The RUPP Marine Top Gun Mounting Plate excels in its primary function: providing a rock-solid mounting platform for outriggers. The plates effectively distribute the load, minimizing flex and vibration, which translates to improved trolling performance and reduced stress on the T-top structure. It greatly improves stability and control during rough conditions.

The design works perfectly, while the only potential improvement would be offering pre-drilled holes for even easier installation with specific T-top models. These plates meet and exceed my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is exceptional, as the aircraft aluminum feels incredibly robust and the black anodized finish is both attractive and functional. The weight of the plates is reassuring, indicating the substantial amount of material used in their construction.

Installation required professional welding, but the design itself is straightforward. Overall, they are a user-friendly product, as no adjustment or modification has been needed after the initial install.

Durability & Maintenance

These plates are built to last for many years, even in the demanding marine environment. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional rinsing with fresh water to remove salt and grime.

The RUPP Marine Top Gun Mounting Plate is easy to maintain and repair, as only basic tools are required to tighten or replace any mounting hardware. This is likely a lifetime piece.

Accessories and Customization Options

The RUPP Marine Top Gun Mounting Plate doesn’t come with additional accessories, as they are primarily a mounting foundation. However, the standard mounting hole pattern ensures compatibility with a wide range of outrigger brands and models.

The plates can be further customized with paint or powder coating to match the T-top’s color scheme, though the black anodized finish is already quite appealing. Overall, the simplicity makes it an easier integration to my existing setup.

Pros and Cons of RUPP Marine Top Gun Mounting Plate

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Who Should Buy RUPP Marine Top Gun Mounting Plate?

Perfect for: Pro anglers, serious offshore fishermen, and anyone who demands the highest level of stability and durability for their outrigger setup. If you are consistently trolling for big game in challenging conditions, the RUPP Marine Top Gun Mounting Plate is an essential upgrade.

Who should skip this product? Weekend boaters who only occasionally use outriggers in calm conditions might find a less expensive mounting solution adequate. Also, boat owners who are not comfortable with welding or hiring a professional fabricator should consider alternative options.

Must-have accessories or modifications? High-quality stainless steel mounting hardware is essential for long-term corrosion resistance. Also, consider using a marine-grade sealant between the plates and the T-top to prevent water intrusion.

Conclusion on RUPP Marine Top Gun Mounting Plate

The RUPP Marine Top Gun Mounting Plate is a premium investment that delivers exceptional performance and durability for serious anglers. The price is justified by the superior build quality, enhanced stability, and long-term reliability.

I would personally recommend the RUPP Marine Top Gun Mounting Plate to anyone seeking a robust and dependable mounting solution for their outriggers. Don’t compromise on quality when it comes to your fishing gear – invest in the RUPP Marine Top Gun Mounting Plate and experience the difference for yourself. Upgrade your outrigger setup today!