Friday, July 24, 2015

Best Estes Sale Value?

Here's my vote for one of the better values in the Christmas In July Clearance Sale at Estes.
It looks like the sale is going on through the end of July, but could be stopped at anytime.
24mm power, over 20" tall and a large BT-60 payload section. The lower body tube is a BT-55.
To see the listing, CLICK HERE
The normal retail price is $18.79, the clearance price is only $3.79!
That's right around 80% off.
I know a lot of people are buying the clearance models for parts. The large payload section alone is worth more than $3.79.


The fin design might look familiar.
Here's the S.C.R.A.M. from the 1986 Estes catalog. The SCRAM was part of the Mini Tri Pack. Three 13mm models in one kit.

The three piece fin design is also like the Custom Rockets M320 rocket.



The Laser Lance is a good sized model with strong BT-55 and BT-60 tubes.

The inset picture shows the 24mm engine mount with added Kevlar.
The fins are a three piece military missile style. While I like the look, the thin middle fin looks fragile.

On TRF, Etoyoc wrote:
"My daughter loves her Laser Lance, but the original fins were prone to damage and we ended up redoing them at least once. I haven't had to do a repair in a while and she usually launches it a few times a year." 

The inset picture shows a fin I drew up to replace the kit fins. I'd probably cut it out of 3/32" stiff balsa or basswood.

The instructions say to glue in the nosecone, but why would you?
Heck, for $3.79 you have the basis for a strong, sport payload model.

2 comments:

  1. I got two of those, and two Cosmic Explorers for about $12, less than most kits at the local hobby store. You are correct, they are a great deal.


    Thinking about a 24mm upgrade to one of the Cosmic Explorers (they seem plenty study, and I have already launched an 18mm CE on a D21, so D-12 or E-9 in 24mm shouldn't overstress the air frame). Shouldn't be too, hard right? Remove 3mm per/fin tab, new centering rings and MMT, and check stability w/motor in RockSIm, add nose weight as needed, otherwise a normal build.

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    Replies
    1. Hi Kristian,
      The Cosmic Explorers are a favorite too. I have four kits upstairs!
      For me, it's right on the fence about going with a 24mm upgrade.
      The biggest kit problems were the decals, they have to be pieced together -
      http://modelrocketbuilding.blogspot.com/2013/03/centurion-project-part-7-cosmic.html
      http://modelrocketbuilding.blogspot.com/2013/03/centurion-project-part-8-cosmic.html
      With an E9-6 engine it should scream!

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