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Building your own airplane is a lesson in the art of decision-making. From the initial kit design to selecting components and a paint scheme, you can expect to make countless choices throughout the course of your project.
One of the most significant decisions is choosing your homebuilt’s powerplant and the propeller to go with it. Not all kitplane propellers are alike, and the propeller you choose can have a significant impact on the performance, safety, efficiency, and aesthetics of your homebuilt.
Here are a few steps to help you make an informed decision:
You chose your kitplane for a reason, whether for cross-country trips, backcountry adventures, aerobatics, or simply the pursuit of a $100 hamburger on the weekends. Your typical flight mission should also drive your propeller decision.
Hartzell offers a variety of advanced propeller options designed with performance traits to fit specific flying mission profiles, such as:
Ideally, you’ll choose an experimental aircraft propeller that not only aligns with your typical mission but enhances it.
Already have an engine in mind for your homebuilt? Selecting a propeller that’s tested and proven to be compatible with your aircraft’s engine can simplify your decision-making and provide peace of mind.
While homebuilt aircraft don’t require certified propellers, Hartzell’s experimental aircraft propellers are built to the same high standards as our certified propeller options. Each prop is rigorously tested for vibration compatibility with popular engine platforms used in homebuilt aircraft for optimal performance.
Additionally, many leading kit manufacturers partner with Hartzell to identify engine-propeller combinations they recommend to customers. By choosing your engine and prop at the same time, you can keep your project moving forward with confidence.
Another key consideration is the material of your kitplane’s propeller blades. Hartzell Propeller offers both aluminum and carbon fiber composite homebuilt aircraft propellers, each with distinct advantages depending on your needs, mission, and budget.
It’s important to note that Hartzell’s lightweight carbon fiber composite blades are full composite, not composite over a wood core. Because carbon fiber is up to 10 times stronger than wood, our composite blades offer uniform strength and integrity. Other benefits include:
Many certified aircraft manufacturers offer Hartzell carbon fiber composite propellers as standard equipment on new aircraft, making them a smart choice for homebuilders who want top-of-the-line performance in a custom-built airframe.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to finding the best propeller for your kitplane or experimental homebuilt aircraft. Your airframe, engine, mission profile, and personal preferences all play a role. That’s why Hartzell Propeller focuses on making it easier for homebuilders to find the right prop for their aircraft.
When you work directly with Hartzell, you get access to over a century of propeller engineering expertise, along with personalized support from our dedicated kitplane propeller sales team who understand the unique demands of experimental and homebuilt aircraft.
Hartzell partners with the world’s top kit manufacturers to develop advanced propellers compatible with their recommended engine for the kit. We offer a robust selection of propellers for the most popular kitplane brands, including:
Now through EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2025, homebuilders can take advantage of Established Special Pricing on new kitplane propellers when purchased directly from Hartzell Propeller. So, if you’ve been thinking about purchasing an aircraft propeller for Lancair, Van’s RV, Glasair or another experimental aircraft kit, now’s the perfect time!
When you purchase a homebuilt aircraft propeller directly from Hartzell Propeller, you also get direct access to the best customer service and support available for Hartzell products.
Use our kitplane propeller search tool to browse our selection of props or contact us to request more information. We’re happy to help you find the best-fit propeller for your kitplane!
