There are retailers that will let you basically buy an "expensive" prop then keep exchanging till you find the right one - then settle the price difference. Of course this assumes that the props you return are in perfect condition, so stay off the bottom.
My prop-shop has some loaners. They are used ones that they have sharpened up a bit. You put a deposit on it and try it out. then you can buy a new one like it if it works out.
