Note: The following build thread was first created on Facebook "Estes Model Rockets" as I wanted to know what kind of reactions/comments I would get. Some were quite interesting

August 26, 2024
I had to get another Pro Series Nike Smoke. This build will be stock and flown on Estes F15-4 engines. I also added a small Nike Smoke, only to realize after receiving it that I already had three in my stockpile.

August 26, 2024
Today, I completed the engine mount for the Estes Pro Series Nike Smoke.
The following deviations from the instructions were done:






August 27, 2024
Since I'm adhering closely to the manual for my Pro Series Nike Smoke build, I will assemble the shock cord as directed. Normally, I would use Kevlar and attach it to the upper centering ring of the engine mount.

August 27, 2024
Time to get married.
First thing I did was to add some thin CA glue to the bottom edge of the main body tube. This is to give the paper some strength.
The instructions call for using white glue. I used epoxy instead.
All three centering rings received glue fillets. The bottom ring got a generous amount, including the paper wall, again for added strength.
I elected to use a fin to make sure the engine mount is placed correctly in the body tube. The instructions on the other hand want you to have the engine mount even with the bottom of the body tube, which I find risky because if you are off just a tad with the dimensions you won't be able to insert the fins.




August 28, 2024
Attaching the Estes Nike Smoke launch lugs is a straightforward yet crucial step in the assembly. Prior to adhering them to the body tube, I roughened the contact surfaces on both areas with 220-grit sandpaper.
The instructions required the use of CA glue, which I followed.
Initially, I used an old thin CA bottle, liberally applied the LL onto the BT, and then proceeded with a new very thin CA glue around the edges and inside the LL. I will let this set.

August 28, 2024
By meticulously friction-fitting the hobby knife into the eyelet, I managed to remove the unwanted plastic piece. This was likely one of the most challenging steps in the entire building process

August 29, 2024
Now it's time to address the fins. Their assembly must be done with precision
as they are vital for successful flights 
First, I washed them with soap to remove any oily residue left from the manufacturing process. Then, I roughened up all the contact areas with 400-grit sandpaper to ensure the glue adheres properly. I used the recommended CA glue as described in the instructions. After allowing the glue to set for 24 hours, I sanded all edges and surfaces once more with 400-grit sandpaper to give them a mat finish for the next step, paint.



August 29, 2024
The instructions do not clearly state which adhesive to use for attaching the shock cord mount to the body tube. I have opted to use epoxy for this step.
Edit: This is a stock build.

August 30, 2024
Here is the rocket's status one day before its inaugural flight tomorrow. Regrettably, time constraints prevented me from applying the full color treatment. I managed to apply only a single coat of primer/filler. This will be adequate until I'm back from the launch event, and hopefully, by then, the weather will have improved. The current humidity is not ideal for painting.

August 26, 2024
I had to get another Pro Series Nike Smoke. This build will be stock and flown on Estes F15-4 engines. I also added a small Nike Smoke, only to realize after receiving it that I already had three in my stockpile.

August 26, 2024
Today, I completed the engine mount for the Estes Pro Series Nike Smoke.
The following deviations from the instructions were done:
- I used epoxy glue instead of white glue.
- I installed the motor block but placed it so that a CTI 3 grain reload would fit. I will use an adapter (red) for flying with Estes F Engines and I also don't like the idea of flying rockets without a motor block.
- I used a Dremel to cut X grooves in the engine retainer instead of sanding the surface.
- The green spacer ring was not used as I deem it as unnecessary.
- The wood surface of the lower centering ring was covered with epoxy.
- Edit: The fins on this kit will not be glued into place.






August 27, 2024
Since I'm adhering closely to the manual for my Pro Series Nike Smoke build, I will assemble the shock cord as directed. Normally, I would use Kevlar and attach it to the upper centering ring of the engine mount.

August 27, 2024
Time to get married.
First thing I did was to add some thin CA glue to the bottom edge of the main body tube. This is to give the paper some strength.
The instructions call for using white glue. I used epoxy instead.
All three centering rings received glue fillets. The bottom ring got a generous amount, including the paper wall, again for added strength.
I elected to use a fin to make sure the engine mount is placed correctly in the body tube. The instructions on the other hand want you to have the engine mount even with the bottom of the body tube, which I find risky because if you are off just a tad with the dimensions you won't be able to insert the fins.




August 28, 2024
Attaching the Estes Nike Smoke launch lugs is a straightforward yet crucial step in the assembly. Prior to adhering them to the body tube, I roughened the contact surfaces on both areas with 220-grit sandpaper.
The instructions required the use of CA glue, which I followed.
Initially, I used an old thin CA bottle, liberally applied the LL onto the BT, and then proceeded with a new very thin CA glue around the edges and inside the LL. I will let this set.

August 28, 2024
By meticulously friction-fitting the hobby knife into the eyelet, I managed to remove the unwanted plastic piece. This was likely one of the most challenging steps in the entire building process

August 29, 2024
Now it's time to address the fins. Their assembly must be done with precision
First, I washed them with soap to remove any oily residue left from the manufacturing process. Then, I roughened up all the contact areas with 400-grit sandpaper to ensure the glue adheres properly. I used the recommended CA glue as described in the instructions. After allowing the glue to set for 24 hours, I sanded all edges and surfaces once more with 400-grit sandpaper to give them a mat finish for the next step, paint.



August 29, 2024
The instructions do not clearly state which adhesive to use for attaching the shock cord mount to the body tube. I have opted to use epoxy for this step.
Edit: This is a stock build.

August 30, 2024
Here is the rocket's status one day before its inaugural flight tomorrow. Regrettably, time constraints prevented me from applying the full color treatment. I managed to apply only a single coat of primer/filler. This will be adequate until I'm back from the launch event, and hopefully, by then, the weather will have improved. The current humidity is not ideal for painting.

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