Vintage Estes Der V-3 build

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SCIGS30

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Between the Estes Crusader and Der V-3, I went with the Der V-3. I don't have much time to build so this rocket fit the bill, easy vintage build. I will build the Crusader next, that should be a challenging build. This kit is in good condition but typical Estes die crushed balsa. Used white build for the entire build and sealed the fins with 4 coats of Brodak sealer. Rocket is now ready for the paint shop and decals.

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What the Squirrel Poop is goin' on with the V-3. Ostensibly, it's glumly simple, but heck if I don't wanna build a Six Pack of 'em.
 
The Der V-3 was the first D-powered kit my cousin & I built. Lost it on the first launch, because we flew it on a D in too confined an area. I cloned it a few years back, then built a 4" upscale for my L1 project. I've also built the Semroc Der V-1.5 downscale. The clone suffered a rough landing after a dozen of so flights and required rebuilding. The upscale is flown regularly, as it rock-solid rugged.

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This is still one of my favorite designs; its simple, reliable, and comical in an irreverent manner.
 
Since the balsa was old, die crunched and soft, the fins took 4 coats of Brodak balsa sealer, but they came out smooth and grain free. Once again to keep my builds light and simple I did not use any primer. I did shoot one coat of Old Krylon Flat white since the Old Krylon Red can be a little translucent. The nice thing about no primer, means no sanding after priming just add topcoat. After the white I sprayed the red and she is ready for decals..........I know I say it everytime but man I love Brodak sealer.

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I finished my Der V-3 today, the old decals went on with some issues, but I got them on, hopefully they snug down after a day or so.

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