Garmin Striker 5dv Flush Mount Review

Exploring the Garmin Striker 5dv Flush Mount: My Review

As someone who’s spent over a decade wrestling with gear across everything from remote field sites to meticulously organized workshops, I’ve learned to appreciate components that simplify, rather than complicate, the setup. My fishing setup, in particular, is a constantly evolving ecosystem where every wire, every mount, and every screen plays a crucial role in a successful day on the water. Recently, the desire for a cleaner, more integrated look on my boat led me to consider how to better house my Garmin fishfinder. The original installation, while functional, left a bit to be desired in terms of aesthetics and profile. This is where the Garmin Striker 5dv Flush Mount entered the picture.

The need for a tidier helm became apparent after a particularly rough passage where a slightly proud fishfinder bracket felt like an unnecessary snag hazard. I wanted something that sat flush, reducing visual clutter and potential for damage. While exploring options, I briefly considered generic gimbal mounts and even DIY solutions, but the appeal of a manufacturer-designed accessory that promised a “sleeker installation” was strong. My initial impression of this flush mount kit was positive; the components felt solid and the included template promised a straightforward process. It offered a sense of relief that a simple, purpose-built solution was available.

Real-World Testing: Putting Garmin Striker 5dv Flush Mount to the Test

My testing grounds for this particular accessory were, naturally, my own boat. I wanted to see how this mount would perform under the typical stresses of a marine environment, from the vibration of the engine to occasional splashes of saltwater. The installation itself was the first real test.

First Use Experience

I conducted the installation on my boat’s console, a relatively flat surface that’s commonly found in many vessels. The kit provided a template, which was a godsend for accurate cutting of the mounting hole. Following the included instructions, the process was largely intuitive, though I did take extra care to ensure a watertight seal around the edges of the cut-out. Performance in different realistic conditions was my next focus; I specifically looked for any signs of the fishfinder becoming loose or unstable during moderate chop and sustained engine running. The mount held the unit remarkably steady, with no discernible wobble or shifting.

Ease of use was a significant factor. Thankfully, the kit was designed for this specific purpose, so there wasn’t a steep learning curve. Positioning the device securely into the flush mount was straightforward. The primary quirk I noted was ensuring the mounting screws were tightened just enough to be snug without over-stressing the plastic of the mount or the boat’s dash material.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and multiple outings, the Garmin Striker 5dv Flush Mount has proven to be a robust and reliable addition. The initial neat installation has held up remarkably well, with no signs of loosening or degradation. The unit remains firmly seated, even after enduring the constant vibration of a day spent trolling.

Durability has been excellent so far. There are no visible cracks, stiffness, or signs of wear on the plastic components. The finish has also remained consistent, resisting the fading that can sometimes occur with marine-grade plastics exposed to sunlight. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to keep it clean. I haven’t encountered any specific maintenance issues, though I would advise against using harsh chemicals that could degrade the plastic over time. Compared to the standard gimbal bracket it replaced, this flush mount offers a significantly more streamlined and secure integration with the console.

Breaking Down the Features of Garmin Striker 5dv Flush Mount

This flush mount kit is designed with a singular purpose: to integrate your compatible Garmin fishfinder seamlessly into your boat’s dash.

Specifications

The core specifications revolve around its compatibility and installation method. This mount is specifically designed for the Garmin STRIKER 5cv, STRIKER 5dv, and STRIKER Plus 5cv fishfinders with GPS navigation. Its primary function is to allow for a sleeker installation against most flat surfaces in a boat. The kit includes all the necessary hardware for mounting, clear installation instructions, and a crucial template for cutting. The price point of $33.99 also positions it as an accessible upgrade.

These specifications matter because they guarantee a tailored fit for specific Garmin units, avoiding the guesswork associated with universal mounts. The inclusion of a template is a significant benefit, as it takes the precision out of the most critical step – cutting the opening in your dash.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of performance, the Garmin Striker 5dv Flush Mount does exactly what it promises: it provides a clean, flush installation. The primary job of this mount is to securely hold the fishfinder unit in place, and it excels at this. It holds the unit firmly, ensuring that the screen is optimally positioned for viewing without protruding excessively.

A key strength is its ability to reduce clutter and potential snag points. The unit sits low, offering a much tidier helm. Its main weakness, if one can call it that, is its specificity; it’s designed for a particular range of Garmin devices, meaning it won’t work with other brands or even other Garmin models. It comfortably meets expectations for its intended purpose, especially considering its straightforward design and reasonable price.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this flush mount is functional and unobtrusive. It’s constructed from what appears to be a durable, marine-grade plastic, which feels sturdy enough for its intended use. The finish is matte, which helps reduce glare from the sun – a small but appreciated detail in a marine environment.

Ergonomically, once installed, the unit sits flush, making it easy to interact with the fishfinder’s controls without obstruction. There’s no real “learning curve” to the mount itself; the design is simple. The key practical detail is how the unit snaps or locks into the mount, providing a secure but accessible connection. The included template for cutting is a crucial ergonomic aid, making the installation process much more manageable.

Durability & Maintenance

For its intended application, the durability of this flush mount kit seems more than adequate. It’s designed for a static installation, meaning it’s not subjected to the same stresses as, say, a gimbal mount that might be constantly adjusted or bumped. It’s likely to last for many seasons of use, assuming it’s installed correctly.

Maintenance is straightforward, as mentioned, primarily involving cleaning. There are no user-replaceable parts or complex mechanisms to worry about. The main potential failure point would be improper installation leading to stress on the mounting points, or exposure to extreme impacts. However, in normal use, it should prove quite resilient.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Garmin Striker 5dv Flush Mount kit comes with the essential components for its installation: hardware, instructions, and the crucial template. There are no additional accessories provided, nor are there real customization options for the mount itself. Its customization comes from how it allows you to integrate your specific Garmin fishfinder into your boat’s dash. It is designed to work exclusively with compatible Garmin STRIKER units, so compatibility with other brands’ accessories is not applicable.

Pros and Cons of Garmin Striker 5dv Flush Mount

Who Should Buy Garmin Striker 5dv Flush Mount?

This flush mount kit is an excellent choice for any boater who owns a compatible Garmin STRIKER fishfinder (5cv, 5dv, or Plus 5cv) and desires a more professional, integrated look for their helm. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a tidy and uncluttered cockpit and want to minimize potential hazards. If you’re building a new console or retrofitting an older boat, this accessory will provide a clean, finished appearance.

Conversely, anyone who needs to frequently reposition their fishfinder for different viewing angles or who owns a different model of fishfinder should look elsewhere. If you are hesitant about cutting a hole in your boat’s dash, this might not be the product for you. For those using it, I’d recommend having a good set of precision cutting tools and perhaps some marine-grade sealant to ensure a watertight fit once the hole is cut.

Conclusion on Garmin Striker 5dv Flush Mount

The Garmin Striker 5dv Flush Mount is a well-executed accessory that fulfills its promise of a sleeker, more integrated installation for compatible Garmin fishfinders. For its price of $33.99, it offers significant value by providing a clean, secure, and professional-looking solution that enhances the overall aesthetic and functionality of a boat’s helm. Its performance is solid, holding the unit firmly in place, and the inclusion of a template makes the often-daunting cutting process much more manageable.

While its specificity means it won’t fit every unit, for those within its compatible range, it’s a highly recommendable upgrade. I would personally recommend this flush mount to any owner of a compatible Garmin STRIKER unit looking to achieve a tidier and more streamlined setup on their vessel. It’s a simple, effective solution that makes a noticeable difference.