If you’re here, chances are you’ve got a Mercury 115 4-Stroke humming at the back of your boat, just like I do. I’ve always been a fan of the Mercury 115 for its blend of performance and reliability, but let me tell you a little story to set the stage.

A few summers ago, I took my boat out for what I thought would be a casual day on the lake. Then, halfway through an idyllic afternoon, I found myself struggling to keep up with friends who were water skiing. My old propeller was making my powerhouse of an engine feel like it was wading through molasses! That’s when I realized: that even the most dependable engine is only as good as the prop it’s spinning.

So began my quest to find the perfect propeller for my Mercury 115 4-Stroke. I did the research, tested out various options, and experienced my fair share of ‘prop fails’ before finally finding the ideal match. And I must say, it was a game-changer!

Ready to transform your boating experience? Stick around as we are discussing the best prop options for your Mercury 115 4-Stroke for 2024, based on performance, durability, and value. Trust me, you don’t want to miss this one!

Our Top Picks

1. Mercury Blackmax 3 Blade Prop

Having had the pleasure of using the Mercury Blackmax 3 Blade Propeller, I can genuinely affirm that its reputation is well-earned. This is not just a personal bias; let me explain why this product stands out in its class.

Firstly, the power management capabilities of this propeller are phenomenal. It’s engineered to handle up to 250 HP, which provides an impressive buffer considering the Mercury 4-stroke engine it pairs with tops out at 115 HP.

The extra horsepower capacity is not only reassuring but also serves as a testament to its robust construction. Even on challenging days, this propeller won’t let you down; it’s capable of handling engines operating at speeds up to 50 MPH.

On the technical side, the Blackmax features a three-blade design, optimizing it for top-end speed and efficiency. It also excels in steering torque, offering a responsive and smooth sailing experience.

As for its dimensions, the propeller comes with a 13.25-inch diameter, which is the sweet spot for pairing with a Mercury 115 4-stroke engine. This diameter complements the engine’s capabilities, maximizing speed and thrust. In addition, the pitch sits at a balanced 17, ensuring an efficient RPM value without risking any “lug” in the engine.

One of the major advantages of this propeller is its aluminum construction. Not only does this keep the price within a reasonable range, but it also offers design flexibility. Though it sports a simplistic look, there’s an inherent elegance in its design.

Last but not least, this propeller rotates in the standard, right-hand direction, making it compatible with a wide range of engines, not just the Mercury 115 4-stroke.

The Mercury Blackmax 3 Blade Propeller is a robust, efficient, and reliable choice that can fully harness the capabilities of a Mercury 115 4-stroke engine, even when operating at peak performance. Overall, it delivers on both quality and value, making it a stellar choice for any boating enthusiast.

2. Qiclear Marine Aluminum Propeller

After giving the Qiclear Marine Aluminum Propeller a spin, I can attest that this is the go-to choice for budget-conscious boaters without sacrificing performance. Don’t let the word “budget-friendly” mislead you—this propeller delivers more than what you’d expect for the price.

The first thing you notice is that it’s made of aluminum, an indicator of both quality and affordability. Aluminum isn’t just light on your wallet; it also makes for a high-quality propeller that is surprisingly easy to work with. Manufacturers are able to churn out an excellent product without exorbitant costs, passing the savings onto you.

One of the standout features is the propeller’s ease of manipulation. Aluminum is a material that lends itself to easy bending and twisting, yet the final product looks anything but cheap.

The sleek, black shimmer of the propeller is aesthetically pleasing, especially when paired with a Mercury 115 4-stroke engine. It’s not just about looks, though; the diameter and pitch of this propeller are meticulously designed to complement such an engine.

Like other higher-priced models, the Qiclear propeller features a diameter of 13.25 inches and a pitch of 17, maximizing both speed and thrust. But what really sets it apart is its versatility.

While it pairs exceptionally well with the Mercury 115 4-stroke engine, it’s also compatible with a range of Mercury Outboard Engines, from 60 to 115 HP. This means you’re not just buying a propeller for one specific engine; you’re investing in a versatile accessory that can adapt to various boating needs.

Finally, let’s talk about its basic yet efficient design—three blades rotating in the right direction. It may sound simple, but sometimes, that’s all you need for a smooth and reliable boating experience. And when you’re getting all these features at such a reasonable price, it’s hard to find fault with the Qiclear Marine Aluminum Propeller.

3. Mercury Spitfire 4-Blade Propeller

The third-place ranking for the Mercury Spitfire 4-Blade Propeller is well-deserved. The four-blade design isn’t just for show—it noticeably enhances both speed and acceleration on the water. The prop manages to grip the water surface efficiently, which results in a thrust that you can genuinely feel.

The 13.25-inch diameter, which is the recommended size for a Mercury 115 4-stroke engine, helps to maximize top-end speed. However, it’s crucial to note that the pitch on this propeller is somewhat lower at 15, compared to other models I’ve tested.

While this doesn’t significantly impair the prop’s performance, it does mean that you won’t get the most efficient RPM rates out of it. That said, this isn’t a dealbreaker but something to be aware of if RPM efficiency is a priority for you.

But the Mercury Spitfire makes up for it with some interesting add-ons. The additional cup added to the design does wonders for both holding and acceleration, adding another layer of control that serious boaters will appreciate. Moreover, the high rake blade design also contributes to the impressive speed metrics.

While the Mercury Spitfire 4-Blade Propeller may not be perfect, its unique features and solid performance make it an option worth considering. Just be aware of its lower pitch, which can affect RPM efficiency, but don’t let that deter you from what is otherwise a high-performing, feature-rich propeller.

4. Outboard Propeller Boat Motors

If you’ve stuck around to this point, you’re probably still looking for that perfect match for your boat. This one just might be it.

Let’s start with aesthetics, a point often overlooked in the world of boat motors. This one doesn’t just go with the standard black but surprises you with a dark purple shade. If you’re colorblind, it might look the same as black, but rest assured, it’s an eye-catching purple.

As far as technical specs are concerned, the diameter and pitch maintain the standard 13.25 inches and 17 respectively, and as you probably know by now, these dimensions are optimal for ensuring your prop achieves its top speed and RPM rate. Nothing new here, but it’s comforting to know they haven’t cut corners.

Additionally, the blade sports the conventional three-blade design, rotating in the right direction. In layman’s terms, you’re not reinventing the wheel here: it’s a standard, reliable propeller.

Overall, if you’re in the market for a propeller that performs well while adding a splash of color to your boat, the Outboard Propeller Boat Motors are worth considering.

5. Turning Point Stainless Propeller

After putting the Turning Point Stainless Propeller to the test, I must say it’s a dark horse worthy of consideration despite its fifth-place ranking on the list. At first glance, its lower position might suggest inferiority, but the reality couldn’t be further from the truth. This propeller has some compelling features that might just make you reconsider your options.

Let’s talk about the specs: the Turning Point Propeller boasts the largest diameter of any on our list. The result? Impressive thrust, capable of carrying heavy loads without breaking a sweat, even at low speeds. Trust me, I hauled my fishing gear and a couple of friends, and we glided through the water effortlessly.

Another notable perk is the high pitch, which provides a top speed that is noticeably faster than lower-pitch alternatives. If you’re a speed junkie like me, this feature alone could be a game-changer.

Unique to this list, the Turning Point is fabricated entirely from stainless steel. The advantage here is minimal blade flex, leading to improved performance metrics when compared to aluminum-made propellers. In my experience, this translated to more efficient, consistent propulsion.

Now, the option to choose either a right-rotating or left-rotating prop gives this product an edge in customization. It might seem trivial, but depending on your specific boating requirements, this flexibility can be invaluable.

But there are a couple of things to watch out for. First, the stainless steel construction, while beneficial for performance, does make this propeller heavier than others. So, it does require some muscle when installing or removing it. Second, be cautious when navigating close to your boat; I learned the hard way that steel can dent your vessel if you’re not careful.

Overall, the Turning Point Stainless Propeller is a robust, high-performing option that shouldn’t be overlooked simply because of its rank. It’s well-suited for those who value power, speed, and customization options, albeit with a few caveats.

6. Quickcruiser Qiclear Marine – Aluminum Outboard Propeller

Next up, we have the Quickcruiser Qiclear Marine propeller. This piece of hardware did not disappoint; in fact, it surpassed expectations.

Designed exclusively for Mercury engines ranging between 60-125 HP, the compatibility was spot-on. With its 15-spline tooth configuration, this propeller seamlessly transferred power, significantly boosting both the speed and performance of my boat. Waiting would have simply been a disservice to my boating experience.

As for its material, the Quickcruiser propeller is fashioned from high-quality aluminum alloy, making it not just durable but also efficient. It’s certainly a step up from the stock propeller I had been using, delivering tangible improvements in speed and fuel efficiency.

To sum it up, if you’ve got a Mercury engine between 60-125 HP, fitting this Quickcruiser Qiclear Marine propeller should be a no-brainer. It’s a decision your boat and perhaps even your weekend will thank you for.

7. Young Marine OEM Grade Aluminum Outboard Propeller

I recently had the chance to try out the Young Marine Aluminum Propeller designed for Mercury Outboard Engines ranging from 30-70HP. My immediate impression upon unboxing was how sturdy it felt. The aluminum construction seemed high-quality and well-manufactured, which added to my confidence in the product.

Mounting it onto my 4-stroke engine was straightforward, thanks to the well-designed engine mounting type. What I appreciated the most was the detailed specifications listed. The diameter and pitch (10 3/8″ and 13″, respectively) matched perfectly with the original OEM specs, which is crucial for optimal performance.

During a weekend trip on the water, I noticed an improved blade performance compared to my old propeller. The boat seemed to glide more smoothly and was more responsive to the throttle, confirming the brand’s promise of performance and quality.

However, the real highlight for me was the return policy. Although I had no reason to return the propeller, knowing that a free return was accepted provided me peace of mind when making the purchase.

Overall, I am pleased with the Young Marine 30-70HP 10 3/8×13 Aluminum Propeller. It’s an excellent aftermarket option for anyone looking to replace their old propeller without sacrificing quality. Highly recommended.

Buying Guide

Are you still confused about which product to buy? Well, it is quite normal especially if you don’t know what to look for. You see, beginners usually tend to face problems when they don’t know what to look for.

That is why we have come up with a list of features that you should be aware of. This way, you can be sure about why we have chosen what we chose. It will automatically explain things to you.

And even if you have some knowledge you might even learn something new from this. Who knows?

So, do put on your curiosity cap and we can commence the journey-

Diameter: What’s The Right Length

First and foremost, you have to look at the diameter of the propellers. Now, when you measure the diameter you have to measure the whole length from the propeller placed at 3’o clock to 9’o clock.

So, you know how to measure the diameter of the propeller. But now you might be curious to know what diameter fits on the Mercury 115 4-stroke motor.

Well, for 4-stroke engines with 115 horsepower the recommended diameter is 1.25 inches. Now, you can go for propellers with higher or lower diameters but we would suggest you not deviate too much.

Now, apart from the recommended size, a larger diameter is generally better. This is because they usually provide great pushing heavy loads. Plus, they even maneuver at low speeds. Moreover, you get to enjoy excellent holeshots.

However, smaller-diameter propellers spin quickly. Thus, it is a good choice for boats that need higher top-end speeds.

Pitch: How Does It Affect The Performance?

Moving on, you should also focus on the pitch of the propeller. But wait. What is the pitch of a propeller?

Pitch is the distance a propeller would move within one complete rotation if it faced an obstacle such as a soft solid. This is a bit like a screw through the wood.

The pitch has full control over your engine’s RPM (revolutions per minute). This is the final “gear ratio” adjustment on a boat.

Now, if you go for propellers that have high pitch it ensures that the boat goes faster at top-end speeds. And these are generally used on larger boats.

However, if the pitch is too high for your engine, it will “lug” the engine. Thus both top speed and performance will decrease.

Typically, the pitch of the propellers depends on the diameter. And since you might be getting propellers with 13.25 inches diameter you will be getting 17 pitch propellers. And they work fine with mercury 4-stroke engines.

Building Material: Which One Enhances Performance?

Thirdly, you need to focus on the building material of the propellers. You see, this part also plays an important part in the whole scenario. Typically, there are two materials for the propellers.

These are aluminum and stainless steel. Now, both have their own pros and cons.

For instance, aluminum is more affordable and offers a wide range of propeller styles. But they are not that durable in nature.

And if you want something that will last a bit longer then do go with stainless steel. They also have a better performance. This is because there is less flex in the blades.

However, stainless steel tends to be quite strong in nature. So, if it hits your boat it will create a scratch on your boat.

Number of Blades: How Many To Get?

Continuing down the list, you also have to focus on the number of blades. Now, propellers come with different numbers of blades. Some have only two blades while others tend to have more.

However, when it comes to mercury 4-stroke propellers you need to stick to propellers with 3 or 4 blades. Now, just like before, even these two options have their own specialty.

For starters, 3-blade propellers have maximum top speed and they are good for steering torque. But they have less drag for higher top-end speeds.

On the other hand, with 4 blade propellers, you get better handling powers and a hole spot.

Hub: Pressed-in Hub vs. Interchangeable Hub

Changing the topic, we should also discuss the hub of the propeller. Now, what is a hub?

Well, the hub is that part of the propeller where the blades are all attached. So, yes, they exist in the middle. Now, even this hub has variety.

You see, it comes in both pressed-in and interchangeable forms. Now, the most common choice for hubs is the press-on ones. They are installed by being pressed in position by a high-pressure press.

That is not an easy process so you will have to get this done at the shop. But you see, this hub is integrated into the propeller core.

On the other hand, the interchangeable hub is easier to install. You can even do this by yourself. But this hub tends to stay attached to the boat. And the propeller easily slides on and off.

Rotational Angle: Which Way Do Propellers Rotate?

The rotational angle of the propeller also plays an important part. Now, you might have guessed already that the rotation can be of two types. The propellers can go to the right or to the left.

Now, the right rotational angle is pretty normal. They are the standard ones. However, the left-hand rotation is mainly used for dual-motor engines. This works to balance the performance across the two engines.

Thus, if you want to balance two engines together then a left-hand rotation propeller would be a good choice. But if you have one engine to manage then go for the regular right rotational angled propellers.

Rake: What is The Angle of The Tip of The Blade’s Tilt?

Lastly, look at the rake of the propeller. This also plays an important part. But before we discuss how this one is useful let’s take a step back and discuss what this really is.

Some of you might not know this but the rake is the angle of the propeller’s tip. Now, this can be both backward or forward in direction. One goes away from the hub and the other points towards the hub.

The way to measure this angle is to calculate the deviation from the center of the hub through the center of one blade. Now, how do each of these rakes perform?

Well, the one that points away comes in handy by bowing the boat to get up and out of the water. This results in less drag and higher top-end speeds.

On the other hand, the opposite pointed rake allows for a larger propeller which will give a quicker hole shot for towing skiers.

FAQs

Will a 4 blade prop make my boat faster?

Typically the 3-bladed propeller offers top-speed performance. However, the 4 bladed propellers do provide maximum thrust as well as smooth cruising work.

Which type of propeller is most efficient?

Typically, 2 bladed propellers are the most efficient ones in their work. But efficiency doesn’t mean that it will make your boat go faster. That depends on the thrust of the propellers.

What are the three major types of propeller shafts?

Typically, there are 3 types of propeller shafts. They are each called tapered, splined, or flanged.

What is the difference between an impeller and a propeller?

As the name suggests propellers tend to push away the fluid from the ocean to ensure that the boat moves in the forward direction. On the other hand, the impellers tend to put that fluid into the boat itself.

What are the advantages of a 4-blade prop versus 3 blade prop?

Final Words

Selecting the best propeller for your Mercury 115 4-Stroke outboard motor is not just about boosting performance; it’s about optimizing the efficiency, handling, and safety of your boating experience.

We’ve discussed various prop options, taking into account factors such as material, blade count, pitch, and diameter, to guide you in finding the most suitable propeller for your specific needs.

Whether you’re a leisurely cruiser or a die-hard angler, the perfect prop is out there for you. Remember that fine-tuning your boat’s performance starts with the right propeller, so invest wisely and enjoy the enhanced capabilities of your Mercury 115 4-Stroke motor.

Liam Jackson

I’m Liam Jackson, the proud owner and driving force behind KayakPaddling.net. Born somewhere in the expansive beauty of the United States, I’ve nurtured a lifelong passion for kayaking and fishing that has led me to explore the far corners of our nation’s waterways.