This is a neat thread; highlighted perks of both and good discussions on the details of the L3 Process!
One thing that I didn't read yet is the history of the two orgs. For some that means a lot, for others it means very little. NAR came first, they're the pioneers of early model rocketry and the remnants/resulting organization from the very first organized rocketry group(s). Tripoli are the pioneers of High Power Rocketry; really the result of those that were removed from NAR for pushing the limits of rocket and motor size in the 80's and early 90's.
Who flew the G?:shock:
As a child who did Model Rocketry locally, safely, and independently I saw little need to join NAR because I was content with my personal state of Model Rocketry at the time. However upon discovery of High Power Rocketry, I saw the need to join an organization that supported my desire for Mo' Power. At the time, there was only one org that supported High Power, that was Tripoli, so it was a no brainer. Plus as a teen, I could only afford one.
Times have changed, after years (decade(s)?) NAR hopped on the High Power train. I have since joined NAR; ironically for different reasons, but will always see Tripoli as "the" high power organization and NAR as primarily low-mid power. I realize that's no longer truly representative....just my personal historical tainted perspective.
As I stated earlier, the history matters to some, and doesn't to others. The two organizations are both great; I support them both! They are different, and the culture of the organizations remain unique, though more similar than indifferent than in the past....the barriers are being broken!
Great to have two good choices!!!