Best books for HPR...

[ewomack]

Right now I'm reading Harry Stine's classic "Handbook of Model Rocketry 7th edition" because so many people have recommended it to me it as essential reading. So far I can see why.

Once I finish that, I would like to move on to a book about HPR, preferably one that I'll understand as a relative beginner. My next goal in this hobby is to hopefully move towards L1. Then I would like to incorporate electronics and maybe experiment with a CanSat or something similar, etc. From there, I don't know. As for my current level, I have successfully built and flown a number of LPR and MPR rockets over the past year. The largest motor I have successfully flown to date is a D12-5. For various reasons, I don't think that I'll maintain a long term interest in LPR or MPR, but HPR appeals to me, so I would like to make the jump, but I would like to make an educated jump. A book, or a few books, seem like a good place to start.

A few dominant HPR books appear in searches.

1. "Make: High-Power Rockets"
2. "Modern High-Power Rocketry 2" (I think the "2" refers to an edition and not to a series?)
3. "A How-to Guide for Obtaining Your Level One High Power Rocketry Certification"
4. "Modern High-Power Rocketry An Illustrated How-To Guide" (this one might be out of print?)

Though I could and probably should read all of these, does anyone recommend a starting point in this list? Are there other books not listed that would work better for someone at my level? Or do any good video series exist on HPR? I've seen some of the Apogee videos on HPR.

As for an HPR rocket, I'm considering a MadCow Super DX3 Payloader because I've heard it has a good payload bay and easily accommodates both L1 and L2.

Thank you!

 

[Tim51]

Right now I'm reading Harry Stine's classic "Handbook of Model Rocketry 7th edition" because so many people have recommended it to me it as essential reading. So far I can see why.

Once I finish that, I would like to move on to a book about HPR, preferably one that I'll understand as a relative beginner. My next goal in this hobby is to hopefully move towards L1. Then I would like to incorporate electronics and maybe experiment with a CanSat or something similar, etc. From there, I don't know. As for my current level, I have successfully built and flown a number of LPR and MPR rockets over the past year. The largest motor I have successfully flown to date is a D12-5. For various reasons, I don't think that I'll maintain a long term interest in LPR or MPR, but HPR appeals to me, so I would like to make the jump, but I would like to make an educated jump. A book, or a few books, seem like a good place to start.

A few dominant HPR books appear in searches.

1. "Make: High-Power Rockets"
2. "Modern High-Power Rocketry 2" (I think the "2" refers to an edition and not to a series?)
3. "A How-to Guide for Obtaining Your Level One High Power Rocketry Certification"
4. "Modern High-Power Rocketry An Illustrated How-To Guide" (this one might be out of print?)

Though I could and probably should read all of these, does anyone recommend a starting point in this list? Are there other books not listed that would work better for someone at my level? Or do any good video series exist on HPR? I've seen some of the Apogee videos on HPR.

As for an HPR rocket, I'm considering a MadCow Super DX3 Payloader because I've heard it has a good payload bay and easily accommodates both L1 and L2.

Thank you!

Number (2) in your list is a revised, expanded and updated version of number (4), both by Mark Canepa. Even MHPR2 is 16 years old now, so it doesn't cover things like filament wound fibre glass construction, or have up to date info about trackers or altimeters (a lot of the brands it mentions have sadly disappeared). Moreover, some of the recommended techniques (eg gluing shockcord loops with epoxy and fishing line, rather than stitching) are out of date. Nevertheless, I'd still recommend MHPR2, because it comprehensively covers all the principles of HPR, guides you through all the key aspects that differentiate HPR from LPR, and contains lots of case studies of how different rocketeers approach various aspects of motor retention, recovery, construction and certification Levels 1-3. Any book is going to show its age sooner or later, because the hobby evolves fast. My advice still would be to read MHPR2 to build a thorough base knowledge, but also supplement that with conversations with experienced L3 HPR flyers at your club, and of course avidly read build threads and other 'how to' discussions here on TRF.

 

[prfesser]

Mark Canepa's newest book, Large and Dangerous Rocket Ships https://www.hpr2space.com/ is a history of LDRS and HPR in general. It's a very interesting read. Softcover is $30, eBook is $10.

 

[markjos]

+1 to the previous comments by Tim51 and prfessr. I think that #1 and #2 are both valuable tools, and do a really good job covering materials and techniques in HPR. Even despite its age, MHPR2 is a very useful reference. While the same topics are covered, the Make: High Power Rockets takes a slightly more science-based approach to its presentation, and has a bit more up-to-date look at materials and electronics. I’m still working through LDRS, bit by bit - certainly also a worthwhile read on the drama and history of high power rocketry. All good additions to your bookshelf.

Where to start? With Stine under your belt, I’d say #1 or #2. MHPR2 was my partner in planning and building my L2, and first electronic deployment construction, but it’s been a while.

And yes, do keep reading TRF. Much wisdom to be gained, with the appropriate filters in place, as with any electronic source.

My $.02

 

[Adam3836]

I agree with already mentioned I like
this Book
Seems to Cover a lot of bases

 

[ewomack]

Thank you for the comments so far, everyone! It looks like MHPR2 may provide a good starting point and the "Make" book may then provide some more technical and possibly up to date information as well. Thanks for the clarification around #2 and #4 as well.

No one commented on #3, so I'm guessing that it's not very well known? It's written by Tim Quigg, published by ARA Press (I purchased their short but fascinating "The First Seven Centuries of Rocketry"), runs 52 pages and has a release date of July, 2018. The length and the relatively low cost might make it worth a look?

I do have a hardcover copy of "Large and Dangerous Rocket Ships" and I can't wait to read it. My reading list can get a little... complicated at times... but it looks incredible.

 

[rocketman328]

Right now I'm reading Harry Stine's classic "Handbook of Model Rocketry 7th edition" because so many people have recommended it to me it as essential reading. So far I can see why.

Once I finish that, I would like to move on to a book about HPR, preferably one that I'll understand as a relative beginner. My next goal in this hobby is to hopefully move towards L1. Then I would like to incorporate electronics and maybe experiment with a CanSat or something similar, etc. From there, I don't know. As for my current level, I have successfully built and flown a number of LPR and MPR rockets over the past year. The largest motor I have successfully flown to date is a D12-5. For various reasons, I don't think that I'll maintain a long term interest in LPR or MPR, but HPR appeals to me, so I would like to make the jump, but I would like to make an educated jump. A book, or a few books, seem like a good place to start.

A few dominant HPR books appear in searches.

1. "Make: High-Power Rockets"
2. "Modern High-Power Rocketry 2" (I think the "2" refers to an edition and not to a series?)
3. "A How-to Guide for Obtaining Your Level One High Power Rocketry Certification"
4. "Modern High-Power Rocketry An Illustrated How-To Guide" (this one might be out of print?)

Though I could and probably should read all of these, does anyone recommend a starting point in this list? Are there other books not listed that would work better for someone at my level? Or do any good video series exist on HPR? I've seen some of the Apogee videos on HPR.

As for an HPR rocket, I'm considering a MadCow Super DX3 Payloader because I've heard it has a good payload bay and easily accommodates both L1 and L2.

Thank you!

I would start with Make: High Power Rockets

 

[DaHabes]

Thank you for the comments so far, everyone! It looks like MHPR2 may provide a good starting point and the "Make" book may then provide some more technical and possibly up to date information as well. Thanks for the clarification around #2 and #4 as well.

No one commented on #3, so I'm guessing that it's not very well known? It's written by Tim Quigg, published by ARA Press (I purchased their short but fascinating "The First Seven Centuries of Rocketry"), runs 52 pages and has a release date of July, 2018. The length and the relatively low cost might make it worth a look?

I do have a hardcover copy of "Large and Dangerous Rocket Ships" and I can't wait to read it. My reading list can get a little... complicated at times... but it looks incredible.

View attachment 424877

I just finished it. It's a fascinating read. Considering high power initially got started when I was a kid flying Estes BP motors, it was eye opening to see the progression in the HPR realm over the years. Having just gotten into HPR at age 65, I have a lot of catching up to do....

 

[Theory]

LDRS is a fantastic book. ive read a few chapters several times; "lets punch a hole in the sky..."

that said, if you are looking for construction advise or a "how to do X" book, that is not it.

as others have said, "Modern High Power Rocketry 2" is dated, however, if you are most concerned with gaining more knowledge and looking to a L1 project, it will surely suffice.

IMHO, the most important thing is one that cannot be taught, and that is experience. this comes with trial and error, and takes time. build a few F and G powered rockets (lots more power there than your D12) then build an L1 bird and get comfortable with H and I motors. Lots of "room" at L1 as a full tilt I is much different than a baby H.

oh, and never forget to have fun. thats why we do this right?

 

[JLP1]

I got LDRS for Christmas and started reading it in March thru May during the darkest days of the lockdown and the covid spread. Everyday I would set down and read a few pages it was like a breath of fresh air. It would take me back to better days and I would set back close my eyes and envision the launches and the people gathering. Groups of people around the country working on some of those projects and then traveling to the various locations to launch. And reading about the personalities of some of the movers and shakers in HPR. It was an excellent read and I found myself wishing for just a few more chapters. Some of the folks I've met like the Rocketman and J. Jarvis characters all. Great Book

 

[stantonjtroy]

I agree with already mentioned I like
this Book
Seems to Cover a lot of bases
View attachment 424838

I have to second this one. Very useful for most every task/feature you'd encounter.

 

[dr wogz]

I have to second this one. Very useful for most every task/feature you'd encounter.

Add my vote to this one too!

And this forum has loads of useful info as well.. go back a few pages in each (interested) forum, and you'll find a few gems of info!

 

[Idunno]

Right now I'm reading Harry Stine's classic "Handbook of Model Rocketry 7th edition" because so many people have recommended it to me it as essential reading. So far I can see why.

Once I finish that, I would like to move on to a book about HPR, preferably one that I'll understand as a relative beginner. My next goal in this hobby is to hopefully move towards L1. Then I would like to incorporate electronics and maybe experiment with a CanSat or something similar, etc. From there, I don't know. As for my current level, I have successfully built and flown a number of LPR and MPR rockets over the past year. The largest motor I have successfully flown to date is a D12-5. For various reasons, I don't think that I'll maintain a long term interest in LPR or MPR, but HPR appeals to me, so I would like to make the jump, but I would like to make an educated jump. A book, or a few books, seem like a good place to start.

A few dominant HPR books appear in searches.

1. "Make: High-Power Rockets"
2. "Modern High-Power Rocketry 2" (I think the "2" refers to an edition and not to a series?)
3. "A How-to Guide for Obtaining Your Level One High Power Rocketry Certification"
4. "Modern High-Power Rocketry An Illustrated How-To Guide" (this one might be out of print?)

Though I could and probably should read all of these, does anyone recommend a starting point in this list? Are there other books not listed that would work better for someone at my level? Or do any good video series exist on HPR? I've seen some of the Apogee videos on HPR.

As for an HPR rocket, I'm considering a MadCow Super DX3 Payloader because I've heard it has a good payload bay and easily accommodates both L1 and L2.

Thank you!

I just completed my L1 cert flight on my first fibrglass build a couple of weeks ago so maybe my experience will be of use to you. My interest in HPR began a few years ago when on a whim my family decided to go to LDRS just outside of the DC metro area. Up until that point I had built nothing but low power Estes kits. If you ever get the chance, go to LDRS. It's a great event, and I bought a random fiberglass kit that my daughter picked out. The kit was a Scarab 54, and there were absolutely no instructions. This was a mistake. The Scarab is a great rocket, it's just not what i'd recommend for a beginner. It sat for a couple of years until I decided to do some research on how to build it. When you select a FG kit, I would recommend getting a kit that either comes with all the hardware (such as eye bolts, screws and nuts) or one where the manufacturer suggests what hardware to buy. Most importantly buy one that comes with good instructions. I would also recommend selecting a kit that has had lots of build threads. For my kit all I got was some tubes and a nosecone. In addition to learning how to build a fiberglass rocket I had to deal with more basic questions such as "what size eyebolt do I need?" "what drill bit size should I drill hole X with". It's nice to have a set of instructions to just tell you what you need to buy for your first build. I'd say the same thing when you're ready to build an ebay for dual deploy. Just get a kit because it's hard to find info on things like "what gague wire should I use to connect the altimeter to my ejection charge". Once you have built an ebay you will know.

The first thing I did when I was serious about building my rocket was buy High Power Rocketry 2, and honestly I didn't find it all that useful. Cardboard and wood techniques weren't relevant to my project, and honestly after flying fiberglass going to cardboard feels like it would be a step back. I'll probably try phenolic at some point though. The info in that book is dated, and most of what it covers it is readily available and more up to date on these forums. It is still worth going reading though, because sometimes it will answer a questions I didn't even know to ask (example: what's the min velocity my rocket should be at before leaving the rail? What size parachute do I need?).

I spent quite a lot of time reading forums and going through all build threads I could find. The darkstar build thread that is sticky linked in the HPR forums is a must if you are building FG for the first time. I also went to all of the major vendor sites (madcow, wildman, etc.) and read through their instructions. After doing all that I wished I had bought a Wildman kit that comes with all the hardware. And finally there are some youtube videos put out by Apogee on building a fiberglass rocket. I recommend watching them.

After doing all of that I got my scarab built and even went for dual deploy for my L1 flight, which went off without a hitch on the first try. I could easily use the Scarab for my L2 cert flight if I wanted to, but I'm choosing not to.

One final thing, download openrocket and learn how to use it. Buy a kit where the mfr already already put together a file you can use for simulations. Go play around with things until you understand how to use the program. I aimed for around 2000 feet for my first high power flight, and wouldn't have known what motor to select without OR.

I have no experience with Madcow, but when doing my research I do remember that the instructions seemed pretty good, there was an openrocket file available, and I believe there are some build threads. It should be a pretty good beginner friendly rocket, but I would suggest not using the same rocket for L2 that you do for L1. You will make beginner mistakes, I know I sure did. I want to build a better rocket for my L2 (I chose a Darkstar 3). Good luck!

 

[DaHabes]

I got my L1 with a Madcow Super DX3 last year, single deploy. Awesome flight. Next step is to build out the e-bay for L2 level flights. I have a LOC Minnie Magg that I will likely use for my L2 as a single deploy, to keep it simple, then work on DD with the DX3 and practice, practice, practice in case I decide to go for L3.

I just finished HPR2 - really good source for understanding all of the basics in HPR. Does not cover clustering much, but you can pick that up from TRS. Stine's book is pretty basic after reading HPR2, especially if you have done LPR or MPR a lot, but there are a couple of very technical chapters in the the book on flight dynamics that are very worthwhile reading. LDRS is a history book but a really fun read if you want to understand how HPR got to where it is today.

 

[spigalau]

Not specifically HPR, but currently reading - Ignition! - An Informal History of Liquid Rocket Propellants

https://www.amazon.com/Ignition-Informal-History-Liquid-Propellants-ebook/dp/B076838QS2
Quite an interesting read.

 

[Gary Liming]

+1 LDRS
+1 Ignition - I found a paperback on ABE for under $20.
Both are about history, not technique. If you liked Ignition and are looking for something different, try Strange Angel - the story of the beginning of rocket fuels and the JPL and the bizarre life of John Parsons.

 

[Dan Griffing]

I just finished it. It's a fascinating read. Considering high power initially got started when I was a kid flying Estes BP motors, it was eye opening to see the progression in the HPR realm over the years. Having just gotten into HPR at age 65, I have a lot of catching up to do....

I’m 69 and also have a lot of catching up to do. I launched my first HPR, Apogee’s Zephyr, in May for my L1, added dual deployment and launched it again in June for my L2, but “lawn darted” it in July on its third launch of the day.

I’m building three replacements with 54mm motor mounts to fly next year. HPR is a great reason to stay mentally focused during retirement.

 

[Zman1961]

1 and 2 are good, with the noted comments about being a bit dated on some things. Absolutely read them. The TRF threads are also very helpful, and you can ask questions directly to the people who post, or the reader group at large. Most vendors will also be quite responsive to your questions. But some of the best information I received was from going to club launches and meetings and talking to HPR fliers, and getting to know them, and then attend every launch possible. Use HPR building techniques on some of the larger MPR kits. The transition from that to L1 isn't great if you have done some building and launching. And as others have said, have fun while meeting some great people! Most will help you.

 

[alanmohammed868]

I agree with already mentioned I like
this Book
Seems to Cover a lot of bases
View attachment 424838

 

[alanmohammed868]

Can you please send me an ebook of this Book.
I'll be greatful alot

 

[Hobie1dog]

Can you please send me an ebook of this Book.
I'll be greatful alot

https://booksrewards.com/?book=1412058104

 

[Hobie1dog]

I do have a hardcover copy of "Large and Dangerous Rocket Ships" and I can't wait to read it. My reading list can get a little... complicated at times... but it looks incredible.

did you get to read it yet? I couldn't see it before I read it, and didn't know it was just the history of the 2 organizations so I was really disappointed. I got half way through it and told myself that I'd never join the NAR because of their paralyzing fear of HPR. I gave my book away.

 

[jahall4]

Mark Canepa's newest book, Large and Dangerous Rocket Ships https://www.hpr2space.com/ is a history of LDRS and HPR in general. It's a very interesting read. Softcover is $30, eBook is $10.

You betcha, and while the cover suggest it is a history book, you'll find it is technical too explaining WHY we build and configure rockets as we do in the historical context that made it necessary.

 

[jahall4]

I got LDRS for Christmas and started reading it in March thru May during the darkest days of the lockdown and the covid spread. Everyday I would set down and read a few pages it was like a breath of fresh air. It would take me back to better days and I would set back close my eyes and envision the launches and the people gathering. Groups of people around the country working on some of those projects and then traveling to the various locations to launch. And reading about the personalities of some of the movers and shakers in HPR. It was an excellent read and I found myself wishing for just a few more chapters. Some of the folks I've met like the Rocketman and J. Jarvis characters all. Great Book

Another you betcha, great book, Yes movers and shakers... Terry McCreary flies with us (MC2) in Hopkinsville KY. I was fortunate to fly with Lee Brock at @ PMW before he passed. He appears in the text and was an editor.

 

[bad_idea]

Rocketry being a relatively small hobby, LDRS is a fun book because every so many pages I see a name and have a "hey, I know that guy" reaction. Had lunch with one person mentioned in the book today and will be sharing a house at a launch this weekend with another.