This rocket was introduced to the MPC line in 1970.
The same design was sold through Quest as the Nike K for many years.
It stands 22.5" tall with the lower body tube diameter at 1.340" or 35mm. The weight is 2.35 oz.
Here's a little history from the oldSkyHighHobbies.com website:
MPC was started in approximately 1968 or 1969 soon after acquiring Model Rocket Industries (MRI was established in 1968 by Myron Bergenske). Located in Mount Clemens, Michigan, this company produced many boxed and "blister-packed" model rocket kits, including the Titan III-C and 1/87 scale Vostok scale plastic models that could be built for flight or display. MPC ceased model rocket production in about 1973, and sold all molds and tooling to Aerospace Vehicles Incorporated (AVI) who continued to sell these kits under the MPC name until 1978.
MPC was primarily a plastic model company so many of the rockets incorporated plastic fin cans, nose cones and ridged adapters. This one even had a thick, clunky plastic launch lug.
I tried to duplicate the paint and decal scheme from the kit box. The early MPC kits were boxed and shrink wrapped. You can see the supplied (generic) roll pattern wouldn't quite make it around the lower 35mm body tube.
That fin can on the right is the same Nike Smoke fin can still on sale through Quest. This one is strong red plastic, nearly indestructible.
At one time I built trade show and catalog models for AVI. I received a lot of MPC kits and engines in trade for my work. Occasionally I'll still fly an old MPC kit or engine.
Very interesting story about both the kit and your personal association with it! I've been a bit curious about this kit, since I see old store stock of it so regularly. I might pick one up sometime, if I can find one cheaply enough.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing!