RE: prop material
I like APC's and ProZingers (composite and wood, respectively). It's not a bad idea to stick with the cheaper and more forgiving plastic or Master Airscrew initially, but once you get so they're lasting the season you will appreciate that they don't deform at speed and are generally quieter (a consideration if the field safety officer pulls out the dB meter on you).
Wood is still the lightest in sensible prices and just looks right on certain models.