What Makes the Springfield Marine 1660704-L Uni Lock Storable Table Mount Stand Out?
When you’re out on the water, whether for a day of fishing, a leisurely cruise, or working on your boat, having a stable and accessible spot for your gear can make all the difference. That’s where a product like the Springfield Marine 1660704-L Uni Lock Storable Table Mount comes into play. This unassuming piece of marine hardware from Springfield Marine offers a practical solution for creating a temporary or semi-permanent surface for drinks, tools, bait, or even a small tackle box.
My own need for this type of mount arose during a particularly frustrating fishing trip. Constantly juggling my tackle box, water bottle, and fishing rod between my hands or precariously balancing them on the boat’s gunwale led to a near-miss incident with my phone dropping into the drink. I realized a dedicated, secure spot for my essentials was not just convenient, but a necessity for a smoother, safer experience.
Upon first inspection, the Uni-Lock Storable Table Mount struck me as robust, despite its plastic construction. The material felt dense and capable of handling the marine environment’s inherent challenges, like sun, salt, and moisture. It felt like a no-nonsense piece of equipment designed for its specific purpose without unnecessary embellishments.
I briefly considered a generic clamp-on table or a more complex hinged system, but the simplicity and the established Uni-Lock system of this Springfield Marine offering seemed to offer the best balance of ease of use and secure attachment for my needs. My initial reaction was one of quiet satisfaction, a feeling that a simple, effective problem had been addressed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Springfield Marine 1660704-L Uni Lock Storable Table Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing grounds for this Springfield Marine mount were aboard my small, well-used fishing boat. I installed it on an existing 2-3/8″ Uni-Lock table post that I typically use for a different table setup, appreciating the immediate compatibility. The primary scenario involved keeping my fishing essentials within easy reach: a water bottle, my sunglasses case, and a small bait container.
During a moderately choppy day on the lake, the mount held its ground admirably. The 7″ diameter with 5″ hole pattern provided ample surface area for my items. Even with the boat rocking, none of my gear shifted or threatened to slide off, a welcome change from my previous makeshift solutions.
The ease of use was a significant plus; it simply clicked into place on the Uni-Lock post, and removing it was just as straightforward. There was no fiddling with screws or complex locking mechanisms, which is perfect when you’re wearing gloves or dealing with wet hands.
One minor surprise was how secure the surface felt, even when I accidentally leaned on it while reaching for something else. It didn’t flex or wobble, which gave me confidence in placing heavier items on it if needed.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the course of several weekends and a few extended fishing excursions, the Uni-Lock Storable Table Mount has become a permanent fixture on my boat. It has endured constant exposure to direct sunlight, salt spray, and the occasional freshwater rinse.
So far, there are no visible signs of wear and tear. The high-strength black plastic has resisted fading, and more importantly, it hasn’t become brittle or cracked. The Uni-Lock mechanism still engages with a satisfying click, indicating the tolerances have remained tight.
Maintenance has been virtually non-existent. A quick rinse with fresh water after a saltwater trip is all that’s needed to keep it clean. The smooth plastic surface doesn’t trap much debris, and even when it does, it wipes away easily.
Compared to some flimsy, clip-on accessories I’ve used in the past, this mount feels incredibly durable. Those cheaper alternatives often developed play or broke under even moderate stress, whereas this Springfield Marine offering continues to perform as if it were new.
Breaking Down the Features of Springfield Marine 1660704-L Uni Lock Storable Table Mount
Specifications
The Springfield Marine 1660704-L Uni Lock Storable Table Mount is designed with marine applications in mind, featuring a robust construction and practical dimensions. Its core functionality relies on its compatibility with any 2-3/8″ Uni-Lock Table Post, a standard in many boat setups.
The tabletop itself boasts a 7″ diameter, offering a decent amount of surface area for various items. This is complemented by a 5″ hole pattern, likely intended for mounting accessories or providing drainage options. The entire unit is constructed from high-strength black plastic, a material chosen for its resilience against UV rays, saltwater, and general wear and tear common in marine environments.
The Uni-Lock Storable Table Mount is designed for longevity and ease of integration. It is intended for use with Uni-Lock threaded stakes and rails, ensuring a secure and stable connection. This specific model is sold individually, meaning you purchase one table mount per unit.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its primary job, the Springfield Marine 1660704-L Uni Lock Storable Table Mount performs admirably. It reliably provides a stable surface for placing items, which is crucial in the dynamic environment of a boat. Whether it’s holding a drink, a small tool kit, or your catch of the day, it does so without excessive wobble or sag.
Its main strength lies in its straightforward functionality and the secure Uni-Lock attachment system. The 7″ diameter is sufficient for most common items you’d want at hand. The high-strength black plastic material has proven to be remarkably durable and resistant to the elements, a critical factor for marine equipment.
A slight limitation, inherent to its design, is the fixed size of the tabletop. While 7″ in diameter is adequate for many uses, those needing to place larger items might find it a bit restrictive. Additionally, as a plastic unit, it won’t offer the same rigid, heavy-duty feel as a metal alternative, though for its intended purpose and price point, this is a reasonable trade-off.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this table mount is purely functional, prioritizing utility over aesthetics. The high-strength black plastic provides a utilitarian look that blends into most boat interiors without being obtrusive. Its overall feel is one of solid, unpretentious construction.
Ergonomically, it’s designed for quick and easy operation. The Uni-Lock system means it can be attached or detached in seconds with minimal effort, which is a significant ergonomic win in a potentially cramped or moving environment. The 7″ diameter surface is smooth and offers a consistent platform.
Practical design elements include the subtle texture of the plastic, which provides just enough grip to prevent items from sliding too easily. The 5″ hole pattern is thoughtfully placed, offering potential for drainage or even securing items with bungee cords if needed, although I haven’t personally utilized it for that purpose yet.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my extended use, the Springfield Marine 1660704-L Uni Lock Storable Table Mount appears built to last. The high-strength black plastic is a testament to its potential for long-term service life in a demanding marine setting. I anticipate years of reliable use from this unit.
Maintenance is exceptionally simple, requiring only occasional rinsing with fresh water to remove salt and grime. There are no complex parts to clean or lubricate, making it a low-fuss addition to any boat.
A potential point of consideration, common with plastic components exposed to prolonged UV, is long-term brittleness. However, the quality of the plastic used here suggests this is unlikely to be an issue in the near to mid-term. The attachment points within the Uni-Lock system also show no signs of wear, indicating robust engineering.
Accessories and Customization Options
This Springfield Marine Uni Lock Storable Table Mount is primarily a standalone component designed to integrate with existing Uni-Lock posts. It does not come with a wide array of accessories. The 7″ diameter with 5″ hole pattern offers a degree of customization; one could potentially drill further holes or use the existing ones to mount small fixtures.
The core strength here is its compatibility. It works seamlessly with any 2-3/8″ Uni-Lock Table Post, a widely adopted standard for marine furniture. This means you can easily swap it with other Uni-Lock accessories like rod holders or different table styles, offering flexibility in how you configure your boat’s workspace.
There aren’t any direct customization options offered by the manufacturer for this specific table mount itself, beyond its integration within the Uni-Lock system. It serves its purpose as a functional table surface, and its utility is derived from its placement and what you choose to put on it.
Pros and Cons of Springfield Marine 1660704-L Uni Lock Storable Table Mount
Pros
- Robust Construction: The high-strength black plastic feels durable and capable of withstanding marine conditions.
- Effortless Installation: Integrates seamlessly with any 2-3/8″ Uni-Lock Table Post for quick setup and removal.
- Practical Surface Area: The 7″ diameter provides sufficient space for drinks, tools, or bait.
- Weather Resistant: Designed specifically for marine use, it handles sun, salt, and moisture well.
- Excellent Value: Offers a functional and durable solution at an accessible price point.
Cons
- Limited Size: The 7″ diameter may be insufficient for larger items or multiple objects.
- Plastic Build: While strong, it doesn’t offer the absolute rigidity of metal alternatives.
- No Integrated Mounts: The 5″ hole pattern offers potential but no built-in holders for common items like cup holders.
Who Should Buy Springfield Marine 1660704-L Uni Lock Storable Table Mount?
This Springfield Marine table mount is ideally suited for boat owners who utilize the Uni-Lock pedestal system and need a convenient, temporary surface for their gear. It’s perfect for casual anglers, pleasure boaters, or anyone who wants a dedicated spot for their drink, bait box, or essential tools without investing in a permanent fixture. If you frequently find yourself wishing for just a little more stable surface space on your boat, this is a strong contender.
Those who should likely skip this product are individuals requiring a large, permanent table for dining or extensive workspace, or those without a compatible 2-3/8″ Uni-Lock Table Post. If you regularly carry very large or heavy items, a sturdier metal or larger-dimensioned table might be a better investment.
For those purchasing this mount, a complementary accessory could be a small set of stainless steel screws to potentially mount a dedicated cup holder or small organizer to the 5″ hole pattern, though this is an advanced customization and not typically required. Otherwise, it functions perfectly well as is for its intended purpose.
Conclusion on Springfield Marine 1660704-L Uni Lock Storable Table Mount
The Springfield Marine 1660704-L Uni Lock Storable Table Mount is a testament to effective, no-frills marine engineering. It successfully addresses the common need for an accessible surface on a boat, leveraging the ubiquitous Uni-Lock system for effortless integration. The high-strength black plastic construction ensures durability against the harsh marine environment, while the 7″ diameter offers a practical amount of space for everyday essentials.
For its price of $35.99, this table mount delivers significant value. It’s a durable, functional, and simple solution that enhances the usability of any boat equipped with a compatible pedestal. It might not be the largest or most feature-rich table on the market, but it excels at its core purpose with reliability.
I would personally recommend this product to any boater looking for a straightforward, affordable way to add a stable surface for their gear. If you already have Uni-Lock posts on your vessel, this Springfield Marine mount is a logical and worthwhile addition that you’ll likely find yourself using more than you initially expect.