Interesting comments.

I have looked at the props that Larry is selling and I think I will get a couple of each to try and a couple each of the APC. It looks like I will have to order direct from APC. Incidentally the price of the APC props I listed are just under $4 each - about the same price as the imported ones that Larry sells.

I guess some testing will be in order. But first perhaps I should state what my goal is - asking about props without any reference is a loaded question.

I have a hankering to build a 1/2a proto profile control line plane. For those that are not familar, these are speed planes built with a profile fuselage using 1/2a engines (that you could have guessed from the name) The basis of the event is a timed 10 laps from a standing start. So, not only is top speed important but so is acceleration. The planes generally have about an 18" wingspan +/- and 45 to 55 square inches of area with an all up weight of around 6 to 7 ounces.

Now, there is very little in the way of control line flying in the area that I live and it isn't likely that I will be attending the NATS or any other organized speed events this year. So, I thought I might push the idea of the event a little further. There is some talk about extending the engine size limit for 1/2a speed to .061 and with this in mind I thought I might create my own challange which I am for the moment calling the Hobby Shop 1/2a proto profile. In indoor free flight extreme lightweight models are the norm - 1 or 2 grams or less for some classes. One class that is popular is called the EZB. There was a published article called the Hobby Shop EZB where the idea was to build a competitive EZB using only commonly available materials from the local hobby shop - no ultra light, hard to get and expensive indoor balsa wood - just off the shelf from the local store.

So to take that idea and expand on it a bit, my Hobby Shop 1/2a proto profile will be built using on materials available from the LHS - no high tech equipment, no high price imported limited availability engines. Off the shelf balsa, dope, wheels, two line control, etc and using the now only easily available engine - the AP .061. and 10 percent nitro fuel.

That's my challenge hence my looking into the APC props as they are generally available from the LHS. (but it will be interesting to try out the props that Larry sells as well. Who knows, maybe the APC 4.2x4 will be the best overall?

Thanks for the input. Anyone else want to have a go? The more the merrier.

cheers, Graham in Embrun near Ottawa Canada