The grain is deliberately running the length, yes. I did try a miniature one (10cm rather than 40cm) with the grain running in the opposite direction, but it snapped during the bottom side roughing.

I believe that's how real ones are supposed to be done for strength during use? But I have no intention of using this in anger - although it's quite tempting! This one is purely "because I can" and it was a challenge for my CAD, CAM and CNC experience!

Yes, hand sanded to remove tabs and clean up a bit, but the shaping is all through a 6mm ballnose. Obviously the photo is just a roughing cut - see the earlier post for what one side looks like after finishing pass. Prop isn't balanced perfectly - but does produce some wind! I should have machined the central shaft with the CNC but didn't want to risk the part at that stage as it's taken a few attempts - each requiring a few hours. It's not too far out though, I think a bit of selective sanding and it would be useable. I have a prop balancer somewhere; I'll stick it on later and see.