New prop: 2 vs 3 blades?

[WebMaster]

You are right, in that there is generally some reduction in speed caused by having 3 blades instead of 2. When Mooney wanted a plane to go faster, they went from 3 blades to 2, for the same model. I think I remember Herb saying he lost 2 mph at cruise.

However, as in your boat, getting up and going with more blades happens faster. It's the common reason that some planes go from 3 blades to 4. Better acceleration and climb.