Estes Nightwing

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Darian Rachal

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While I was in Michael's the other day, I noticed a separate rack of items marked down that had some Estes stuff on it. They had 3 Nightwings. This looks like a neat little rocket & they wanted $10.00 for it. Has anyone built this & if so, what is your impression of it. I read a review on EMRR, but wanted to know what anyone on TRF thinks.:)
 
I think the Nightwing is a highly underated kit.

Sorta reminicent of some of the classy designs Estes had in the 80's (OK that's just my opinion).

I've seen a few built and I've heard they are not an easy build (I like that!).

I have 3 but havn't built one yet...it's on my list...

sandman
 
I'm pretty sure that Tulanko has built one.... Hey, Carl !!! CARL !!! Wake up, meathead.....
 
Ken, "the buttmunch" Parker is correct...

I have one, two actually, and have built one which is in primer. the other is hanging on my Wall of Flame. It is a very nice kit, sort of a modern day SR-71; it uses the same nosecone and similar layout. Lots of fun to build, although I have not finished it for some reason. Mine needs sanded and more primer and paint, which is why I probably havent finished it,

I have also seen it fly and it flew well, similar to the old Estes SR71. They are worth having if you like that type of kit.

Carl

BTW, can ya "feel the love" between me and Ken? ;) We have known eachother waaayyy to long!
 
Just remember to use the 40% off coupon from the Sunday paper.... Then it will only cost you $6.00!!
 
Originally posted by Darian Rachal
I read a review on EMRR, but wanted to know what anyone on TRF thinks.:)

Hey, I'm "someone" on TRF, too! Fancy that. :)

It is a neat kit to build and fly, but the body tube is very narrow so learn how to pack your parachutes tight but not too tight. Also, avoid the Estes 3-fold method since it will even create more restriction and could prevent parachute deployment. Build it with a Quest (kevlar TM to motor mount) technique.

Nick
 
I'm just finishing the construction phase on a Nightwing today. It's been a fun build with lots of balsa work (which I enjoy) and a bunch of paper glueing and shaping, which was a bit more challenging. If I ever build a second one I'll do it better, now that I know how it all fits. I had the same thought as Nick about the tight space for an 18in chute, but too late to alter the shock-cord mount. I did add a good length or Kevlar line to extend the shock cord. The nose is large and heavy (and weighted with clay), and could really stress a short cord, or whip-back and damage that nice balsa.

Filling and finishing this rocket will be some work. I bought the rocket at my son's insistance, and he wants it painted "just like on the package" (we'll see...).

If you like a longer, more challenging build than the average Estes kit, this is a good option (especially at a bargain price.) I'm glad to hear that it flies well too!
 
I thought it was an enjoyable build, have not gotten around to flying it yet however.

Basically noticed the same as those above about fitting chutes into the body tube...

Jason

<img src="https://members.aol.com/rocketcollector/images/nightwing.jpg">
 
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