Skipjack Class Propeller

[spankey]

So I had a question...
I am re-propping my DE Skipjack, since I wiped out the stock prop that Mr. Merriman included with the kit. (Rust destroyed the set-screw...going to try to find a stainless setscrew now!) I started looking around for pictures of props from boats of the Skipjack Class, and noticed a couple of differences, and wondered if anyone had any wisdom on the 'why' the props were changed through the class.

Below is a pic of the USS Scamp SSN 588. Although it is shrouded/tarped, it is obvious that the screw is of the 5 bladed variety that originally came with Mr. Merriman's kit.


Now, below this is a shot of the Scamp again, later in its life, with a 7 bladed prop, which is unshrouded.
As I'm looking to replace the screw, Anyone know what the story is for the difference? Maybe this was the time period that they were transitioning to the 7 bladed screw?

[greenman407]

Spankey, you might have missed the interchange between Merriman and subICman in I SPY, but a general agreement was reached that this picture is also a Skipjack prop. As far as if and when they had a five blade, I dont know.

[Albion]

The Permits and Skips have a similar prop. Prop shop in UK makes VERY nice one you can use. Not cheap, but it sure looks good, this photo doesnt do it justice

[spankey]

Prop shop is real nice. I bought a 2.8" screw from them for my 1:72 Los Angeles I'm working on. Since its not installed yet, It sits in a place of honor on my desk....Yes, its that good looking.

[Subculture]

Five blade prop was earlier. More of a conventional non-skewed profile- efficient but noisy. The scimitar prop with more blades would be smoother and quieter although not so efficient, at least in model form.

Personally I like the earlier design, as you see a lot of nukes with simitar props.