The radar reflector is simply bolted onto the pole so that it can't move. A large pole needs to be bolted onto the top of your boat and then the radar reflector is fixed to the top. The radar reflector needs to be physically fixed to the boat, this can be done using a large pole or support. This is something that you will have to think about carefully to get the best all round result.

Make sure that you locate this somewhere high up, but somewhere that won't impair the performance of your boat. The radar reflector needs to be located as high up on the boat as possible, by doing this you will maximize the chances of it effectively helping other sailors to identify your boat. Choose the biggest radar reflector that your boat can accommodate. The radar reflector will need to be mounted on a pole on your boat. The metallic object can be fixed in a number of different ways. Therefore, it's important that the device is fixed well above the waterline of your boat for optimum effectiveness. Step 2 - Positioning the Radar ReflectorĪ radar reflector is quite simply a large metallic object which is fixed to your boat. This needs to be visible for at least 6 miles legally. If you have a non metallic boat then people may find it very difficult to identify your boat on radar systems, this can put you in unnecessary danger which is why radar reflectors are so important.Īny non metallic fishing boat will need a radar reflector as a legal requirement. A radar reflector can be used as a way of making your boat more visible. Although 1995 was a long time ago, the tests are still relevant and interesting, because just about all of the products and technology are unchanged. Step 1 - Reasons for Radar Reflectorsīoats made out of wood or fiberglass are not normally as visible on radar systems as often as metal boats. West Marine tested radar reflectors in 1995, lead by Chuck Hawley along with experts Stan Honey, Dick Honey and Jim Corenman. A marine radar reflector will make boats more visible to other boats using the RADAR system.

Navy star radar reflector