Yes, I think it is due to the shadows on the propeller and the direction of the sun/light.
I find that it is more accurate if the sun is shining through the propeller. Having it reflect off of the blands usually gives me 2x the RPM as a reading.
ORIGINAL: electricfan
wont the prop size/distance from the hub affect the reading, or am i wrong? also, how do you tach helis?