3-blade or 4-blade for rough waters?

[jokaj]

I was on Mead this weekend and the winds picked up quick in the late afternoon (two flag warning when I returned to the marina). With that came the waves. I have a 3-blade and a 4-blade prop. I know that the 4-blade has a better hold and throttle response but the 3-blade will allow me to get my bow up allowing me to "cut" through the waves. I have a 22.5 ft deckboat and had the 3-blade on. I am not sure which one would be better for the conditions I experienced. Your thoughts? thanks

 

[SparkieBoat]

Re: 3-blade or 4-blade for rough waters?

a 4 blade prop will work better in the low to mid RPM range...3 blade props do better at your higher RPM range..so in rough waters I would want a 4 blade..assuming it will keep my engine in the right RPM range and is the right pitch

 

[jokaj]

Re: 3-blade or 4-blade for rough waters?

Thanks, next time in rough water i will make sure i change out to a 4-blade.