Flyrockets.com - great introductions to rockets

This page has links for all levels of model rocketry with emphasis on Large Scale and High Power. It was originally compiled as an information source for local scout dads wishing to build slightly larger rockets.

Most rockets at school launches will be small kits that can be purchased for about ten bucks at Hobby Lobby or the Waco Hobby Stop. So, whether you are new to rocketry or an expert, come join in the fun! I can be reached at cbarnett@texnet.net if you have questions about Upcoming Launches near Waco, Texas or about the formation of the Waco Rocket Club, or about hobby rocketry in general.

How safe is Model Rocketry?

    Personal Photos  -  Large Scale and Certifications for Level I, and Level II high power
   High Power Pictures - This contains some pictures of some large rockets and should be worth the time it takes to load.

   Interesting and Somewhat Unusual Rockets - These are a little different than your average tube and fin models.

   Special Effects - If you have a couple of minutes for this page to load, you might find it interesting.

Rockets are re-useable and usually come back down via parachute, streamer, or helicopter recovery. Small model rockets - available at many local hobby shops: They are fast. Don't blink during the launch. You might miss it. cost of rocket: abt $2.50 - $30.00 cost per flight: abt $1.25 - $3.00 motor
Large Scale - slightly larger engines & heavier rockets at some hobby shops.  These weigh between 1 lb and 3.3 lbs and must carry less than 125 grams of fuel.  FAA requires notification of nearby airport 24hr-48hr before launch Because of their size, these rockets can appear to take off slower and more realistically. The engines are a little more powerful and the models are MUCH more impressive than the smaller class of rockets.  It is possible to break the sound barrier and reach altitudes of around 1 mile with small well engineered rockets using motors in this class. cost of rocket: abt $25.00 - $130.00 cost per flight: $7.25 - $16.00 for re-load
High Power - larger engines and heavier rockets. (requires FAA waiver for launch, additionally requires NAR or Tripoli certification to buy engines and may require a LEUP if motor is transported or received across state lines) Level 1 certification allows very reasonable hobby sized models. cost of rocket: abt $30.00 - $150.00 cost of motor: abt $77.00 - $98.00 cost per flight: $11.00 - $37.00 for reload Certification for Level 2 and Level 3 allows very large and powerful rockets to be built. cost of rocket: abt $30.00 - $$$$$ cost of motor: abt $98.00 - $$$$$ cost per flight: $38.00 - $$$$$ for reload

What To Expect (if you've never been to an organized model rocket launch before)

Estes kits are inexpensive and a great way to start. It is possible to build extremely inexpensive rockets. Some of my favorites as a kid had mailing tubes for bodies with nose cones made of laminated balsa scraps. I have even launched from underwater. As a youth, my launch rods were made from coat hangers. (Determination and ingenuity substituted for cash and greatly enhanced the thrill.) Nowadays, most kids are exposed to rocketry long before they are old enough to successfully design and build their own from scraps. Please learn about rocket stability, center of pressure, and center of gravity before designing your own. Young kids will do best with starter KITS requiring a minimum of construction.

For the especially frugal, here is a rocket that can be built for less than 25 cents. Paper Tiger

LOC's EZI-65 is a good kit for entry into High Power. Parents - Large scale and high power kits require use of epoxy for the attachment of fins and engine mounts.  High power kits are often covered with fiberglass.  To prevent allergic sensitization to epoxy, please avoid exposure to the epoxy and fumes when gluing.  Avoid exposure to epoxy dust from sanding.  Also, use warm soapy water instead of alcohol to clean from skin whenever skin contact occurs.  EPOXY SAFETY

Commonwealth has the best prices for high power kits but I would highly recommend that you make sure the order is traceable and add an extra 2 weeks for delivery. They carry LOC and others. LOC produces inexpensive but well constructed high power kits. Aerotech re-loads are available for Doctor Rocket cases and Aerotech cases.

WARNING - Order large scale or high power kits well in advance. Make certain that the order is traceable, and check your package carefully for damage before accepting shipment. (UPS has broken 2/3 of the rockets which I received from them. Long packages containing cardboard tubes are often crushed or broken in the middle. For me, the post office has averaged 2 1/2 weeks extra delivery time on rockets. To the best of my knowledge, other areas of the country have not had this problem.)