All About the Perko 1612DP3BLK Removable Bi Color Pole Light 17 3/8in: Start Here
Navigating the often murky waters of marine safety equipment demands reliability, and that’s precisely what drew me to the Perko 1612DP3BLK Removable Bi Color Pole Light 17 3/8in. My previous boat, a small tiller-steered vessel, had a fixed navigation light that was a constant nuisance when casting lines from the bow. This led me to search for a removable option that wouldn’t interfere with fishing or other activities. The Perko brand, known for its marine hardware, seemed a solid choice.
Upon unboxing, the initial impression was one of practical, no-nonsense construction. The black plastic top felt robust, and the anodized aluminum tube had a decent weight to it, suggesting it could handle the marine environment. It wasn’t a flashy piece of kit, but rather something built for purpose. I had briefly considered some generic, less expensive pole lights, but the reputation of Perko and the clear certification for vessels under 39.4 feet gave me more confidence in this particular unit. My immediate feeling was one of pragmatic satisfaction; this looked like it would solve my specific problem.
Real-World Testing: Putting Perko 1612DP3BLK Removable Bi Color Pole Light 17 3/8in to the Test
First Use Experience
My primary testing ground for this removable bi-color light was my 18-foot center console, specifically during early morning and late evening excursions on a local lake. The real need arose when I found myself fishing from the bow, often having to constantly maneuver around a fixed light that was permanently installed there. The ability to quickly remove and stow this Perko 1612DP3BLK Removable Bi Color Pole Light 17 3/8in meant I could have an unobstructed casting deck.
Performance was tested in conditions that ranged from calm water to moderate chop, with exposure to spray and a fair amount of sunlight. The visibility of the red and green lights met expectations for its intended use, clearly marking the port and starboard sides of the vessel. Installation and removal were straightforward thanks to the required two-pin mounting base, a process that took mere seconds and didn’t require any tools. My only minor surprise was the slight wobble I noticed when it was fully extended, though it wasn’t severe enough to cause concern.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, spanning multiple fishing seasons and various weather conditions, this Perko light has held up commendably. It’s been subjected to sun, rain, and the occasional accidental bump from gear being moved around the deck. Despite the exposure, there are no visible cracks, and the aluminum tube remains straight and free of significant corrosion.
Maintenance has been minimal; a quick rinse with fresh water after saltwater use and a wipe-down have kept it looking and functioning well. Compared to some older, fixed navigation lights I’ve dealt with that required intricate wiring and had bulbs that burned out frequently, this removable unit is a dream. It’s simpler, more adaptable, and has maintained its functionality without any performance degradation. The ease of just popping it out and securing it when not needed has been a game-changer for maximizing usable deck space.
Breaking Down the Features of Perko 1612DP3BLK Removable Bi Color Pole Light 17 3/8in
Specifications
The Perko 1612DP3BLK Removable Bi Color Pole Light 17 3/8in is designed for maritime use, specifically on vessels less than 39.4 feet (12 meters) in length. Its core components include a black plastic top, which houses the light assembly, and a 3/4″ diameter anodized aluminum tube for the pole. This construction is robust and intended to withstand the marine environment.
A key specification is its removable nature, requiring a 2-pin mounting base (sold separately) for secure attachment and detachment. The overall length of the light assembly is 17 3/8 inches, providing adequate height for visibility without being overly cumbersome. The anodized aluminum pole offers a good balance of strength and weight, crucial for something that might be handled frequently.
The lighting itself is a bi-color configuration, meaning it emits both a red light (for the port side) and a green light (for the starboard side). This combination is essential for maritime navigation, allowing other vessels to determine a boat’s direction of travel. The specification for its use on vessels under 39.4 feet is important, as it dictates its compliance with Coast Guard regulations for smaller craft.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of any navigation light is to be seen, and this Perko unit does that effectively within its intended operational range. The red and green lenses provide clear, distinct illumination that meets regulatory requirements for visibility on boats of its size. I found the light output to be consistent, and it served its purpose reliably during dusk and nighttime operation.
A significant strength is its ease of installation and removal. The 2-pin connection allows for swift detachment, which is invaluable for boats with versatile deck layouts, such as those used for fishing. This feature alone elevates its practical utility. The main drawback, though minor, is the aforementioned slight tendency for the pole to exhibit a bit of play in its socket when fully extended. This is a common characteristic of many removable pole lights and doesn’t detract from its overall function as a safety device.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this Perko light is functional and unfussy. The black plastic top feels durable and houses the sealed light unit effectively, protecting it from moisture ingress. The anodized aluminum tube provides a sturdy shaft that is easy to grip.
Its ergonomics are dictated by its function: it’s meant to be inserted and removed. The smooth aluminum pole slides into its base with minimal effort, and the two pins ensure it locks securely. There’s no complex maneuvering or fiddling required, making it incredibly user-friendly. While it doesn’t boast any particularly sophisticated ergonomic features beyond a comfortable grip and a secure fitting, its simplicity is its strength.
Durability & Maintenance
Built with quality materials, this navigation light is designed for the rigors of marine use. The anodized aluminum is resistant to corrosion, which is a critical factor for any component exposed to saltwater or constant moisture. The black plastic housing appears robust enough to withstand minor impacts.
Maintenance is thankfully straightforward. A simple rinse with freshwater after each use, especially in saltwater environments, is generally sufficient to prevent salt buildup and corrosion. The sealed nature of the light unit means there are no bulbs to replace directly, though if the LED unit were to fail, it would likely necessitate replacing the entire light head. So far, after months of use, there are no signs of wear or impending failure, suggesting good long-term durability for its class.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Perko 1612DP3BLK Removable Bi Color Pole Light 17 3/8in is designed to integrate with a specific mounting system. The crucial accessory required for its use is a 2-pin mounting base, which is typically purchased separately. This base is what allows for the quick-release functionality and provides the electrical connection.
Beyond the mandatory mounting base, there aren’t many customization options for the light itself. Its strength lies in its plug-and-play nature once the base is installed. However, the availability of different pole lengths or perhaps alternative color plastics might be desirable for some users, though these are not standard offerings for this specific model. The focus here is on a functional, compliant, and easy-to-use navigation solution rather than extensive personalization.
Pros and Cons of Perko 1612DP3BLK Removable Bi Color Pole Light 17 3/8in
Pros
- Removable design: Allows for easy stowage and maximizes deck space, especially useful for multi-purpose boats.
- Certified for vessels under 39.4 ft: Ensures compliance with maritime safety regulations for smaller craft.
- Durable construction: Features a black plastic top and 3/4″ diameter anodized aluminum tube built for marine environments.
- Simple installation/removal: The 2-pin mounting base system allows for quick, tool-free attachment and detachment.
- Good visibility: Provides clear red and green lights essential for navigation at dusk and night.
Cons
- Requires separate mounting base: The 2-pin mounting base is an additional purchase not included with the light.
- Slight pole play: A minor wobble can be detected when the pole is fully extended in its base.
- Fixed length: The 17 3/8 inch length might not be ideal for all vessel types or specific visibility needs without a different base.
Who Should Buy Perko 1612DP3BLK Removable Bi Color Pole Light 17 3/8in?
This Perko bi-color pole light is an excellent choice for owners of smaller powerboats and sailboats, specifically those under 39.4 feet, who value versatility and unobstructed deck space. It’s particularly suited for anglers who frequently use their bow for casting and need to remove obstructions. Boat owners who engage in multi-purpose activities on their vessel, such as cruising, watersports, or fishing, will appreciate the convenience of its removable design.
Anyone who finds their current fixed navigation lights cumbersome or limiting should consider this unit. However, individuals looking for a permanent, integrated navigation system or those who operate vessels larger than 39.4 feet should look elsewhere. It’s also important to note that if you don’t already have a compatible 2-pin mounting base, you’ll need to factor that into your purchase. For those who do, pairing this light with a robust base will enhance its utility significantly.
Conclusion on Perko 1612DP3BLK Removable Bi Color Pole Light 17 3/8in
The Perko 1612DP3BLK Removable Bi Color Pole Light 17 3/8in offers a practical and compliant solution for small boat navigation lighting. Its removable nature, coupled with a durable build from a reputable marine brand like Perko, makes it a valuable addition to any smaller vessel. The ease of use, particularly the 2-pin mounting system, means you can quickly adapt your deck space for different activities without compromising safety.
At $59.99, it represents a reasonable investment for improved functionality and safety, especially when considering the additional cost of a compatible mounting base. While the slight play in the pole is a minor observation, it does not detract from the light’s primary function. I would confidently recommend this bi-color pole light to any owner of a boat under 39.4 feet who seeks the flexibility and convenience of removable navigation lighting. It’s a solid piece of equipment that delivers on its promise of functionality and adherence to maritime standards.