Estes 2178 Hi-Flier Flying Model Rocket Kit

This rocket arrived in three days, so I was quite pleased. The cardboard tube was a little crushed but there was no sense sending it back. It was easy to assemble, taking about an hour and a half (not including drying time for the glue and paint). I replaced the streamer with a much longer one, nearly 7 feet and ALWAYS put some string-line marking chalk in the tube before launch. Since it's very easy to lose sight of the rocket when it passes 1500 feet, the chalk makes a good cloud when the streamer deploys. Without the chalk and longer streamer, we would have lost it long ago. We usually use C6-5 motors which launch it high enough to impress anyone. Next we're going to try launching it with a D10-7W motor. Might lose it when it hits 3000+ feet but at $8, the fun will outweigh the loss. This rocket has been a lot of fun and I will buy another if we lose it.

Does not come with all parts needed to launch. Total scam

This thing is pretty cool! I decided to just paint the whole thing black because it's what I had on hand. Thought I'd write this review before I launch it because it sounds like I might not get it back😅. Had a little trouble with fin alignment, but after a few tries, it turned out alright. My favorite glue for making rockets is hot glue because it's sturdy, easily shaped, and dries almost instantly. The only downside side is it's more messy, and since it's almost instant, you really have to be fast and precise! Overall, it was a nice and easy build that is good for beginners (as long as you don't mind painting).

This rocket is built for speed and for height. It is small with a very durable fin system. It is not a difficult rocket to make and it will take you about an hour to make it - depending on glue drying time. Everything about it is designed to minimize weight without sacrificing strength so it can go fast and high. It has a streamer rather than a parachute which is a good thing because of the height it attains. With a parachute it could very well sail off quite a distance from your launch zone. I like the solid fin system. They are stronger than normal. I found the recommended painting scheme to be a bit too much, even though I did it by the suggested way. You might just want to spray paint the whole thing one solid color. Nice little rocket, cheap and fast. Remember that this is just a rocket. You still have to purchase engines, wadding and a launcher if you are just starting out in the hobby.

Bought several for a class rocket project, but would liked to have had a parachute option instead of a streamer, but this one was the best value and skill level (easy build).