As others have noted, using the standard Estes controller with good batteries should be fine. I've probably done hundreds of personal launches in my local area using both the AA and 9v ones and never had an issue when making sure of the following:
Good luck and I hope everything goes well next time!
- Good batteries! (Alkaline at minimum, Energizer, Duracell or lipo are bonus and recommended)
- Use good igniters! If you have the older white tipped crap, you'll have a harder time and should buy a new pack of the gray coated ones. I have used many of the white ones, they're just not as good.
- TEST it!!! I recently grabbed a new Estes orange 9v controller and new Energizer 9v and tested it outside with a new igniter and it didn't work. It ended up being the 9v battery was really old stock. I swapped it out and the igniter fired right up. I have the Estes Pro controller, but haven't needed it yet for any low power launches.
- I like to bend loops on the end of the igniter wires since it provides more contact area and the clips grip better.
- Make sure your clips don't touch each other and DON'T pull on the wires as you're about to launch. I usually tie the wires in a simple knot around one of the base legs to avoid any pulling out of the igniter.
Good luck and I hope everything goes well next time!
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