Autoprop, J-prop
After having spent lots of time researching this topic, I learned the following: 1. Folding props typically result in some loss of motoring performance. They also are reputed to work poorly in reverse. Best for sailing speed. 2. Feathering props are better, but create slightly more resistance than folders while under sail. Even so, the resistance is far less than with a fixed prop. Good choice for cruisers as well as racers. 3. For someone who mostly cruises, the Autoprop is far and away the best choice. Superb performance while motoring, ability to stop your boat within one boat length by reversing, excellent directional performance in reverse. However, it is quite costly. By the way, I purchased a J-prop feathering propeller for my Catalina 30, and I'm pretty satisfied. The pitch can be changed easily without tools while the boat is in the water.
