What is pitch?

Propeller pitch is the theoretical forward movement of a propeller for one revolution, assuming that there is no prop slip. For example, a 21 pitch propeller will theoretically move 21 inches for every revolution. Propeller slip occurs with every propeller, but the amount of slip varies depending on propeller design. More aggressively and efficiently designed propellers will slip less.

When selecting a propeller pitch for your boat, it is important that the propeller runs at the upper end of your engines wide-open-throttle RPM range. If you want your RPM's to increase, go down in pitch. To decrease RPM's, go up in pitch. As a general guide, for every 2" of pitch, RPM's will change approximately 400 RPM's.

For water sports or extra people on board, you should generally drop 2" of pitch to help compensate for the added weight and drag on your boat. It makes a noticeable difference in your boat's hole shot, fuel efficiency, RPM's, and overall performance. You should ALWAYS carry a spare propeller on board, and if you're into water sports or occasionally load the boat with extra people, a spare prop with a lesser pitch is a good idea. When thinking a propeller pitch, compare it to a gear on car - lower gear, higher RPM's.

The same pitch from different manufacturers will run slightly different RPM's due to a difference in blade design. Speed differences among the same pitch from various manufacturers will vary even more. For example a 17 pitch from one brand could run up to 7 mph faster than a 17 pitch from another brand.

Pitch is the 2nd two digits that are listed in a propeller item description (14-1/4 x 19, 19 is the pitch, 14-1/4 is the diameter)

SpeedZone Stainless Steel Propellers

Maximum Performance Series
150 - 300+ hp w/ a 4-3/4" gearcase

For the "Go-Fast" crowd

SpeedZone propellers take the next step in high performance to best harness the power of high performance bass boats and powerful sterndrives. Greater blade area and more aggressive design features deliver optimum acceleration and top end speed.

Get maximum exhaust flow for higher horsepower with our MasterGuard Hub System. The durable design won't leave you stranded with a spun hub during an important fishing outing. Carry an inexpensive spare Hustler aluminum propeller as a backup or to get into the real shallow waters you normally wouldn't want to run a stainless steel propeller.

Express Propellers

The Express propeller from Turning Point Propellers provides all-around high performance for everyone from pro fishermen to weekend boaters. This stainless steel prop is ideal for just about any engine from 40 to 300+ hp with a 4-1/4" or 4-3/4" gearcase.

Delivering maximum speed and secure handling on tight turns at wide open throttle, the Express propeller is perfect for bass, walleye, family fishing, offshore and runabout boats. The unique blade design, available in 15", 17", 19", 21" or 23" pitches, allows for versatile use and gives boats a quicker hole shot, faster time to plane and greater lift.

At the heart of the Express prop housing is Turning Point's redesigned MasterGuard interchangeable hub system. Smaller and stronger, the hub utilizes a high-tech polymer material that efficiently absorbs damaging shift shock and engine vibrations. The small diameter allows optimal exhaust flow for better fuel efficiency and peak horsepower.

They can be purchased at select boating stores. Boaters can find more information and the nearest dealer at www.turningpointpropellers.com.