Wooden Propeller Identification

Usually 8 feet or longer in length (associated with slower RPM usage, i.e. 1200 to 1700 range)
8 bolt holes, rather than six.
Darker woods, typically mahogany, walnut, oak, cherry.
Offset blade patterns, often scimitar with variations in leading edge and trailing edge curves.
Exposed or fabric covered tips, painted. Some copper or other malleable sheathing towards tips.
Drawing number or engine data stamped on hub.
Click on Photo Gallery for thumbnails of a variety of WW1 propellers.
Post a question on the Wooden Propeller Forum under "Early Propellers" if you need help.

Usually 6 to 8 feet in length.
Often 6 bolt holes, sometimes 8.
Light colored woods, usually ash, birch, maple, etc.
Symmetrical blade design, with leading and trailing edges similar.
Thin metal along leading edge towards hub. Fabric common.
Design number often on base of blade, or on hub.
If you think yours is in this category, go right to the Modern Wooden Propellers web site.
For variable pitch (multiple blades) propellers click here.

Identification of early (and even modern) wooden propellers can be very difficult and challenging. The first step is to determine which of the categories below is most likely to apply, then refine your search from there. Each category will have different available options, but after you have gone through those you can always go to the Wooden Propeller Forum and post your question there.. Remember, many propellers simply can not be identified at this time with the currently available reference materials.

Below are some general groupings of wooden propeller types. The characteristics of aircraft propellers changed significantly in the 1920's with the advent of newer and higher rpm engines and the development of metal propellers. The designations of "early" and "modern" are therefore useful because there are a number of common features of each, although there are many exceptions to the general guidelines given below. Click on the title or picture below to view examples and some further options.