A propeller and its systems are more complex (and critical) than you might realize, evident by the detailed inspection procedures prescribed by the prop manufacturer. The good news is there is a lot of inspecting that can be done without even removing the blades from the aircraft. The FAAs advisory circular AC 20-37E is worth a read as it provides guidance for aircraft propeller maintenance. In particular, the AC provides information and suggests procedures to both increase service life and to minimize failures of metal propellers. Wood and composite props generally follow different repair guidance.
Those rushed preflight walk-arounds are all the same the hand makes a quick pass over the props leading edge and then it hits the starter switch you not really knowing if the propeller is airworthy. We’ve been there.
Want a better respect for propeller inspections? Read NTSB reports written about propellers coming off in flight they aren’t pretty.
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