It is certainly not limited to marine use. The plug you want is either a
NEMA L10-30 (3-wire) or NEMA L14-30 (4-wire). These are both 120v or 240v.
You can connect this plug to any cord you wish, as long as you are willing
to accept the responsibility of what could happen in the event of a short or
overload. If you use a relatively short (25-50') #12 weather-resistant cord
in good condition, you need only worry about the condition of the tool
you're using, as the conductors are quite capable of handling the current
required to trip a 30A breaker before fire or damage. Also, don't fail to
ascertain whether the receptacle is offering 120 or 240 volts; the
configuration could be either.
Be prepared to spend $25 for the plug . . .

Padeen

"Roger Long" wrote in message
...
I just returned in shock (as usual) from the marine store. I need to
install some fenders on our marina dock before the boat arrives. The
little dongle to let me plug a regular extension cord into the 30 amp
socket so I can use my electric drill is SIXTY BUCKS! How come a 50
foot cord with an even larger 30 amp female on the end is only fifty?

Anyway, I just need to use this thing once since the boat will become
the dongle when it gets here.

Is the 30 amp, three prong plug, a marine only item or can I get a
plug of the same kind at Home Depot and just wire it on to an old
extension cord?

--

Roger Long