Rocket Built Entirely with a Hex Key

[chris97rockets]

An entire rocket built with a hex key! I set out to make a kit that's different but more importantly the one I was looking for when I started building rockets 15 or so years ago. I started tinkering with this idea in 2017. Had many iterations but got serious last year when I made 50 for a school. Soon, it will be available to anyone! There is lots of small details I'd love to share and can't wait for people to find.

 

[kenstarr]

Some years ago I did a mid power 3 engine cluster rocket that had fins and fin can that locked into place using small bolts/nut. The engine mount locked into a threaded rod using a 6-32 nut then the fins locked in from the aft end using a 6-32 hex head machine screw. Super fun build although not practical for any reason other than the fun of it. Lost it in a pine tree on its third flight... Those fin lock mechanisms you have there are looking sweet and practical!
Ken

 

[cwbullet]

I really like the idea of a quick assembly rocket.

 

[jmasterj]

What are the centering rings made of?

 

[Joekeyo]

The bolt-on fins really appeal to me. Bolt-on fin "housing?" Brillant! What an elegant idea.

 

[KenECoyote]

Great idea!

Years ago Hangar 11 made some kits that were L1/2 and screwed/bolted together. I wanted to buy them, but missed it before he closed shop.

Edit: They were phenolic & wood kits.

 

[chris97rockets]

The rings are made out of aluminum. They are tapped so the brackets can screw down onto them.

 

[SolarYellow]

Would be cool to make them out of 3D printed polymer with thread inserts. And make the fins printed so they could be airfoiled.