After using the prop selector on the Merc website,I see that in theory we want to turn the very high end of the RPM band for max speed. I always thought that you would run faster by being a little below the max RPM band number. My 23 pitch Q4s run 5000 RPMs on Merc 415 Mag MPIs[RPM band is 4600-5000]. Wouldn't another inch pitch possibly add top end speed at the expense of acceleration? Or is it ok to go over the band a little but not hit the rev limiter and not lose top end? what do you find out there? Wher in theory is the hot spot for top end?

Top speed= the correct pitch prop to get engines to Recommended WOT rpm without hitting rev limiter.

You want them to spin right at 5000rpms for max HP. If you added an inch in pitch and then spun to 4800rpms, your top speed would stay about the same. Your cruise speed would increase a little, but acceleration would suffer a little.

Best thing to do is have them labbed to your application. I was also at 5000rpms on my 502mpi's. BBlades just labbed and added cupping and pitch to my props. Hopefully I'll still be at 5000rpms and pick up a couple mph on the top end.

Sounds like a good idea. If you get a chance post your results when you try the labbed props out.Thanks!