Guys:
Obviously, different props offer different features, but if you want the BEST overall prop, carefully read this review article and study the comparative descriptions and charts it presents. Clearly, the three-blade Flexofold wins the blue ribbon overall (…ahead of both Gori and Max Prop):
https://www.yachtingmonthly.com/gear/folding-and-feathering-propeller-test-29807
Using a fixed-pitch prop is like dragging a bucket or drogue chute. You’ll generally lose a knot or so of speed…less noticeable when the wind is howling but really an impediment in light air, when boat speed can go to zero against any kind of adverse tidal current. No fun to be passed by every other sailboat either.
Why choose a folding prop over a feathering one? Two reasons: first, a folding prop has virtually NO drag, while a feathering prop still has some drag. Second, the folding prop is virtually immune to catching any stray lines, lobster pots, random netting or other plastic flotsam and jetsam, while the extended blades on the feathering prop can just as easily hook these items as a fixed prop. (Hint: the Max Prop, while reasonably efficient both ahead and astern, is a “hooky” feathering one.)
According to the article above, the Gori prop ranks near the BOTTOM both in Forward and Reverse, but it did well in the “reduced prop walk” category.
The Flexofold comes factory-direct from Denmark and is standard on many of the high-end sailboats these days. While you can certainly find a cheaper prop elsewhere, the low drag and highest efficiency of the Flexofold will soon make up the price differential:
https://flexofold.com/test-results/
The biggest trick is in choosing the correct blade diameter and pitch for your particular motor. Go too aggressive and you’ll be unable to make full-rated engine RPM’s; undersize it and you won’t be putting all your horsepower to work at best efficiency.
Wishing everyone maximum sailing and minimum motoring this summer!
Barry Stott
Chads Ford, PA