Grit & Gear: Testing the Stealth Rod Holders Backer Plate
The Stealth Rod Holders Backer Plate is a small but crucial component designed to reinforce your rod holder mounts. Manufactured by Stealth Rod Holders, this reinforced nylon composite plate provides extra stability, particularly when using extensions or targeting larger fish. I’ve spent countless hours on the water, and flimsy rod holder mounts are a constant frustration. They can lead to lost fish, damaged equipment, and even dangerous situations.
What led me to this product was a near-disaster on Lake Erie last summer. While trolling for walleye, a larger-than-expected fish slammed one of my rod holders, nearly ripping it clean off the gunnel. I needed a solution to prevent that from happening again, a way to fortify my existing setup without replacing everything. The Stealth Rod Holders Backer Plate seemed like a cost-effective and practical answer.
Upon unboxing, my initial thought was, “This is surprisingly robust.” The reinforced nylon composite feels dense and durable, certainly not flimsy. The black color is understated and should blend well with most boat interiors. The included stainless-steel hardware is a welcome touch, promising corrosion resistance in harsh marine environments.
Compared to using just washers and nuts for reinforcement, the Stealth Rod Holders Backer Plate provides a significantly larger and more rigid surface area. I’ve seen some DIY solutions using wood or aluminum plates, but the molded design and pre-drilled holes of this product offer a cleaner and more professional installation. I preferred this product over making something myself.
My first impression was positive. It wasn’t flashy or groundbreaking, but it felt like a well-engineered solution to a common problem. I was eager to see how it performed under pressure.
Real-World Testing: Putting Stealth Rod Holders Backer Plate to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Stealth Rod Holders Backer Plate on my 18-foot aluminum bass boat during several walleye and muskie fishing trips on local lakes and rivers. Conditions varied from calm, sunny days to choppy, windy ones. I specifically targeted areas known for larger fish to put the backer plate through its paces.
The backer plate performed admirably in all conditions. Even when trolling with heavy lures in strong currents, the rod holders remained stable and secure. I noticed a significant reduction in flexing and wobble compared to using the mounts without the backer plates.
Installation was straightforward. The included hardware was of good quality, and the pre-drilled holes aligned perfectly with my existing rod holder bases. The only tool needed was a screwdriver. There were no unexpected issues after the first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Stealth Rod Holders Backer Plate continues to perform flawlessly. There are no signs of cracking or warping, despite repeated exposure to sunlight, saltwater spray, and the stress of fighting large fish. The reinforced nylon composite seems truly resilient.
Cleaning is simple. A quick rinse with fresh water after each trip is all it takes to remove any salt or grime. I haven’t noticed any discoloration or fading. It definitely outperforms my previous rod holder mounting setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Stealth Rod Holders Backer Plate
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Stealth Rod Holders produces a high-quality product. The company is focused on rod holder solutions.
- Color: Black. The neutral color blends easily with boat interiors.
- Fabric/Material: Reinforced Nylon Composite. This provides strength and weather resistance.
- Width: 2 inches. It provides a good amount of surface area for reinforcement.
- Length: 4 inches. This is ample for most standard rod holder bases.
- Height: 2.2 inches. This doesn’t interfere with mounting or functionality.
- Includes stainless steel hardware. This ensures corrosion resistance.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the strength and stability of your rod holder mount. The reinforced nylon composite provides a rigid and durable platform, while the stainless-steel hardware resists corrosion in harsh marine environments. The dimensions are well-suited for most standard rod holder bases, making it a versatile upgrade.
Performance & Functionality
The Stealth Rod Holders Backer Plate excels at its primary function: reinforcing rod holder mounts. It significantly reduces flexing, wobble, and the risk of damage to your boat’s gunnel. This increases the overall reliability of the system.
Its greatest strength is its simplicity and effectiveness. There’s nothing complicated about it; it just works. If there was one area for improvement, it might be offering different sizes or shapes to accommodate a wider variety of mounting surfaces. It meets my expectations and surpasses basic washers.
Design & Ergonomics
The Stealth Rod Holders Backer Plate boasts a simple, functional design. The reinforced nylon composite feels solid and well-made. The dimensions are compact and unobtrusive.
Installation is straightforward and requires minimal effort. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The reinforced nylon composite is highly resistant to wear and tear. I expect this product to last for many years.
Maintenance is minimal. A simple rinse with fresh water is sufficient to keep it clean and in good condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Stealth Rod Holders Backer Plate comes with the necessary stainless-steel hardware for installation. There are no specific customization options for this product.
It is compatible with most standard rod holder bases. The user can pair it with various rod holder brands.
Pros and Cons of Stealth Rod Holders Backer Plate
Pros
- Significantly reinforces rod holder mounts, preventing damage and increasing stability.
- Made from durable, weather-resistant reinforced nylon composite.
- Easy to install with included stainless steel hardware.
- Provides a cost-effective upgrade compared to replacing entire rod holder systems.
- Simple, functional design with minimal maintenance required.
Cons
- May not be compatible with all non-standard rod holder bases.
- No color options are available (only black).
Who Should Buy Stealth Rod Holders Backer Plate?
Perfect for: Anglers who frequently target large fish, boat owners looking to reinforce existing rod holder mounts, and anyone seeking a simple and effective way to protect their equipment.
Who should skip this product? Those who already have extremely robust and properly installed rod holder systems, or those who only fish for very small species.
Must-have accessories or modifications? This product works best when paired with high-quality rod holders and properly sized mounting bolts. Consider using thread locker to secure the mounting bolts and prevent them from loosening over time.
Conclusion on Stealth Rod Holders Backer Plate
The Stealth Rod Holders Backer Plate is an inexpensive yet incredibly valuable addition to any angler’s arsenal. It’s a simple, well-designed product that delivers on its promise of reinforcing rod holder mounts and preventing costly damage. Its durable construction and easy installation make it a no-brainer for anyone serious about protecting their gear and maximizing their time on the water.
At just $5.28, the price is more than justified. This is a small investment that can save you from potential headaches.
I would absolutely recommend the Stealth Rod Holders Backer Plate to any angler. If you value your equipment and want to ensure a secure and reliable rod holder setup, don’t hesitate to pick up a set. Tight lines and safe fishing!
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