Suggested first cluster kit?

[Joshua F Thomas]

Hey y'all,

I'd like to try a clustered rocket. I'm starting to build my high-amp multi-clip controller for this. (Gotta have ground equipment first...)

Any suggestions for a first kit for clustering? 2 or 3 engines, easy to build, would be desired. I don't need crazy power for this, something taking 18mm A/Bs or even 13mm 1/2As would be fine for me.

Thanks!

 

[CalebJ]

Estes Sidekick.

 

[mcderek]

Lot's of choices here:

Rocketarium Cluster Kits

A different take on a cluster. Way cool rocket-

Fliskits Deuces Wild

 

[kuririn]

The Deuces Wild is a great kit, but I don't think it fits the "easy to build" requirement by the OP.
Estes Sidekick per CalebJ or the Custom LandViper would be my choices.
https://www.customrocketcompany.com/store/index.php?id_product=54&controller=product

 

[Joshua F Thomas]

Estes Sidekick.

Seriously? That thing looks like two rockets clipped to each other, not actually a "cluster" rocket....

 

[Joshua F Thomas]

Lot's of choices here:

Rocketarium Cluster Kits

A different take on a cluster. Way cool rocket-

Fliskits Deuces Wild

I have to say I was looking at Rocketarium's Trident T117-13. Uses 13mm engines, so low-cost and size. Good for my limited field space.

 

[CalebJ]

Perhaps there's some miscommunication about what you're looking for. It's a two engine 18mm cluster rocket that's easy to build. If you're looking for something more specific, perhaps you should update your requirements?

 

[Joshua F Thomas]

Perhaps there's some miscommunication about what you're looking for. It's a two engine 18mm cluster rocket that's easy to build. If you're looking for something more specific, perhaps you should update your requirements?

While technically fitting the requirements, that's not exactly what I had in mind, which is my own fault. I guess it would be hard to communicate aesthetic preferences.

 

[heada]

Semroc Hydra VII. From 1 to 7 motors, each 18mm. Buy an Estes bulk pack of motors if you go with this kit.

This is just 1 vendor that sells it but there are others that might have it cheaper. Has a very good review on the product page.
https://www.apogeerockets.com/Rocket_Kits/Skill_Level_4_Kits/Hydra_VII

 

[kuririn]

That's even more difficult than the Deuce's Wild!
PS erockets (Semroc) carries it besides Apogee.
In fact they carry an "improved" version.
Don't know what the improvement is.

 

[afadeev]

I'd like to try a clustered rocket. I'm starting to build my high-amp multi-clip controller for this. (Gotta have ground equipment first...)

Or, order one of these:
https://www.rocketarium.com/Launch-Equipment/Cluster

Any suggestions for a first kit for clustering? 2 or 3 engines, easy to build, would be desired. I don't need crazy power for this, something taking 18mm A/Bs or even 13mm 1/2As would be fine for me.

Pick one:
https://www.erockets.biz/search.php?Search=&search_query=clusterhttps://www.siriusrocketry.biz/isho...id=mtuom36c80qcnogdp2q2lutav3&keyword=cluster

 

[jhartman009]

I have to say I was looking at Rocketarium's Trident T117-13. Uses 13mm engines, so low-cost and size. Good for my limited field space.

The Rocketarium is a good place to start. But before you place the order, I have a few things to consider for. Start with a 2 engine (18 mm) cluster that can fly on A, or B motors. If you start with something heavy you might have to upgrade your launch pad. Take something small in diameter with a sharp point, think small ice pick, and lightly scratch the propellant. This insures that if the clay nozzle has completely covered the propellant during manufacture it will now be exposed. (Very old tip.) Finally, use a 12 volt launch controller. The more motors, the more important this is. You can purchase one from Pratt Hobbies or Apogee.

 

[EPflyer]

Magnum Sport Loader from Quest is not difficult to build and is reasonably priced.

 

[Lawndart]

If you like scale models, ASP has a Kappa-9M with three 18mm
https://www.asp-rocketry.com/ecomme...le-Engine-.cfm?item_id=924&parent=8&navPanel=

 

[Joshua F Thomas]

Thanks for all the suggestions.

re: The ground controller, I am aware I could buy one, but part of my enjoyment of the hobby is building my own things. I will be building a 12V, motorcycle-battery powered controller with clip-whip and relevant safety features.

 

[BABAR]

https://www.rocketryforum.com/threa...w-sr-73-raven-glider-and-new-gyskelion.38883/
Go to post 8.

Easy scratch build
TripleSec, three motors three body tubes, three nose cones, one launch lug, one fin.

 

[UncleJoe]

Loc, viper 3 is a great beginning rocket. 3, d-12 make a nice flight.

 

[Joshua F Thomas]

https://www.rocketryforum.com/threa...w-sr-73-raven-glider-and-new-gyskelion.38883/
Go to post 8.

Easy scratch build
TripleSec, three motors three body tubes, three nose cones, one launch lug, one fin.

The blackbird in that post is fascinating. I haven't done a thing with gliders, but I'm impressed someone made a SR-71 look-alike.

 

[BABAR]

The blackbird in that post is fascinating. I haven't done a thing with gliders, but I'm impressed someone made a SR-71 look-alike.

https://www.rocketryforum.com/threa...ocket-glider-kits.123283/page-19#post-1964455
Go to post 555 and 566. I think @burkefj could make a brick glide.

 

[BABAR]

The blackbird in that post is fascinating. I haven't done a thing with gliders, but I'm impressed someone made a SR-71 look-alike.

If you are looking for a nice SR-71 -like model rocket glider kit that is NOT remote controlled, check out Apogee SR-72 DarkBird

 

[ZeroCooL]

Any of the LOC Precision MMC kits might fit the bill. I'm currently working on this one and have a 4x18, 3x24 and 1x29 can for it. Lots of flexibility and options.

https://locprecision.com/product/2-63-phoenix/