Sorry I haven't chimed in sooner, but I just got back from vacation.

First I will say that I will not tell you NOT to balance your props.

Second I will say that I do not bother balancing any props under 18"

Third I will say that I have never had to replace bearings with the exception of one time when I had some that were rusty.

So my point is: There are many newbies who are afraid to even think about starting their new engine without first going out and buying a prop balancer - you don't need to.

As to my choice for props - Graupner is my favorite. The reason is simple: I have tried many props, and while I would see a difference between different size/pitch combinations, I never really saw a difference between brands (At least not in the "Under 14" range) until I used a Graupner. There was a noticeable difference between Graupners and any other brand.

They are available here:

http://www.hobby-lobby.com/grprop.htm

As for 2nd favorite? I don't have one.

My favorite prop for a beginner is a Master Airscrew because they work good, they're durable and they're cheap.