Ram Mounts RAM-114RM Rail Mount for Rod Holder Review

Hands-On with the Ram Mounts RAM-114RM Rail Mount Bracket For Rod Holder

The Ram Mounts RAM-114RM Rail Mount Bracket For Rod Holder offers a simple and affordable solution for mounting a rod holder to a boat rail. Made by Ram Mounts, a well-respected name in mounting solutions, this bracket is designed for rails between 3/4″ and 1″ in diameter, accommodating both square and round profiles. Its straightforward design promises easy installation and compatibility with the Ram Mounts bulkhead side mounting base, making it a potentially versatile addition to any angler’s setup. The stainless steel hardware ensures durability in harsh marine environments. I’ve spent years jury-rigging rod holders with questionable results. This promised a more secure and professional setup, so I had to try it.

I had grown tired of using clamps and zip ties to secure my rod holders to the rails of my kayak. They were always shifting, and I worried about losing a valuable rod overboard. The promise of a sturdy, dedicated mounting solution was very appealing. Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the simplicity and solid feel of the RAM-114RM. The stainless steel hardware looked robust and ready to withstand the elements.

I considered a few alternatives before choosing the Ram Mounts RAM-114RM Rail Mount Bracket For Rod Holder. Some offered more elaborate clamping mechanisms, but they seemed overkill for my needs and significantly more expensive. Others were made of plastic, which I worried wouldn’t hold up to the constant exposure to sun and saltwater. This bracket struck a good balance between cost, durability, and ease of use. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; it seemed like a well-made, no-nonsense solution.

Real-World Testing: Putting Ram Mounts RAM-114RM Rail Mount Bracket For Rod Holder to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test of the Ram Mounts RAM-114RM Rail Mount Bracket For Rod Holder occurred during a fishing trip on a local lake. I mounted it to the rail of my kayak using the included stainless steel hardware. The installation was surprisingly straightforward, requiring only a few minutes and a basic wrench.

The bracket performed well in relatively calm conditions. It held my rod holder securely, even when I had a good-sized bass on the line. Ease of use was a definite plus. I didn’t need any special tools or experience to install it. After my first time using it, I found it to be sturdy and reliable.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Ram Mounts RAM-114RM Rail Mount Bracket For Rod Holder has proven to be a dependable piece of equipment. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, including choppy water and even a few light rain showers. The stainless steel shows no signs of rust or corrosion, which is a testament to its quality.

There is minor wear from the constant rubbing of the rod holder, but the bracket remains structurally sound. Maintenance is simple. I just rinse it with fresh water after each use to remove any salt or grime. Compared to my previous makeshift solutions, this bracket is a significant upgrade in terms of durability and reliability. It definitely outperforms my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Ram Mounts RAM-114RM Rail Mount Bracket For Rod Holder

Specifications

• Rail Compatibility: Designed for 3/4″ to 1″ square or round rails, offering versatility for different boat or kayak setups. This ensures broad compatibility.
• Material: Constructed from durable materials and stainless steel hardware, ensuring corrosion resistance in marine environments. Durability in saltwater is paramount.
• Mounting: Intended for use with the Ram Mounts bulkhead side mounting base (sold separately), creating a complete rod holder system. This modularity is beneficial.
• Hardware: Includes stainless steel mounting hardware, further enhancing corrosion resistance and longevity. Rust-free hardware is a must for marine applications.
• Securing Strap: Comes with a securing strap for added stability. It is useful for rough conditions.

These specifications are important because they dictate the bracket’s compatibility, durability, and overall performance in a marine environment. The stainless steel construction ensures longevity. The rail compatibility means it fits a variety of setups.

Performance & Functionality

The Ram Mounts RAM-114RM Rail Mount Bracket For Rod Holder performs its job admirably by providing a secure and stable platform for mounting a rod holder. The bracket holds the rod holder firmly in place, preventing unwanted movement or slippage. The use of stainless steel hardware ensures that it withstands the harsh marine environment.

Its strength is its simplicity and durability. However, the reliance on the separate bulkhead side mounting base can be seen as a limitation. The Ram Mounts RAM-114RM Rail Mount Bracket For Rod Holder meets expectations, offering a no-frills, reliable solution for mounting rod holders.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Ram Mounts RAM-114RM Rail Mount Bracket For Rod Holder is excellent. The materials feel solid and well-made. It offers a good balance between strength and weight.

The design is simple and functional, with no unnecessary frills. There is virtually no learning curve. It’s immediately intuitive to install and use.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its stainless steel construction, the Ram Mounts RAM-114RM Rail Mount Bracket For Rod Holder is expected to last for many years, even with regular exposure to saltwater. Regular rinsing with fresh water is all that’s needed to keep it in good condition. There are no complex parts that require special maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Ram Mounts RAM-114RM Rail Mount Bracket For Rod Holder is designed to be used with the Ram Mounts bulkhead side mounting base. This allows for the use of various rod holders that are compatible with the base. The bracket itself doesn’t offer much in the way of customization.

However, the modularity of the Ram Mounts system means you can easily swap out different rod holders depending on your needs. Its compatibility with standard Ram Mounts bases allows for a wide range of accessory options.

Pros and Cons of Ram Mounts RAM-114RM Rail Mount Bracket For Rod Holder

Who Should Buy Ram Mounts RAM-114RM Rail Mount Bracket For Rod Holder?

The Ram Mounts RAM-114RM Rail Mount Bracket For Rod Holder is perfect for anglers who need a simple, durable, and affordable way to mount rod holders to their boat or kayak rails. It’s ideal for casual anglers who want a reliable setup without breaking the bank. Pro anglers who prefer to customize every aspect of their setup might find it too basic.

Anyone requiring immediate adjustability or needing to frequently swap rod holder positions may want to consider more elaborate (and expensive) systems. A must-have accessory is the Ram Mounts bulkhead side mounting base. You can also consider a high-quality rod holder compatible with that base.

Conclusion on Ram Mounts RAM-114RM Rail Mount Bracket For Rod Holder

The Ram Mounts RAM-114RM Rail Mount Bracket For Rod Holder is a solid choice for anglers seeking a straightforward and dependable mounting solution. While it requires the separate purchase of a bulkhead base, the bracket itself is well-made, easy to install, and offers excellent durability. The $10.99 price tag is definitely justified.

I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a no-nonsense way to secure their rod holders. It’s a simple product that does exactly what it’s supposed to do, and it does it well. If you need a reliable rail mount for your rod holder, don’t hesitate – get the Ram Mounts RAM-114RM Rail Mount Bracket For Rod Holder today!