I don't think the performance difference is due to the wood they are made from. The difference is the horrible airfoil and quality of the Zinger. I've always thought newer props are made from Beechwood simply because it is a readily available wood that is suitable for the purpose and it is available at a much lower cost. Beechwood does compress easier when bolted to the prop hub. The laminated props solve this issue.

Regardless of the wood difference, kmeyers, you are 100% correct that he should try something other than Zinger.