The Best Model Rocket Launch Sets
Few hobbies are more fun and exciting than building and launching model rockets. Especially if you or your kids have an interest in STEM, constructing and launching your own model rocket can not only be a blast but it can also teach important concepts in engineering and physics. If you're just getting started, you'll want to consider getting a model rocket launch set, which includes all the pieces you need to go from zero to blastoff in one kit. Whether you're just trying to spark an interest in rocketry or you're diving into a new hobby, you'll need to find the right model rocket launch set for you. We found the very best of the best and here they are in T-minus 5, 4, 3, 2, 1...
Stomp Rocket X-Treme Rocket Launcher
Kid Powered
If you’re looking for an easy, fun, and fast way to introduce your kids to model rocketry, the Stomp Rocket X-Treme is the perfect choice. The durable tripod stand holds a hollow launch tube upon which a hollow rocket is loaded. Then, with one mighty jump on the red-pump launcher, the rocket is air-blasted 400 feet into the sky. With six rockets included, the fun never stops, even if one of the rockets gets stuck in a tree.
Pros:
- No batteries or other power sources required
- Mom’s Choice and Good Housekeeping awards winner
- Easy to pack up and set up quickly for outdoor fun
Cons:
- The launcher hose can detach from the pump under extremely high pressure
Estes Alpha III Rocket Launch Kit
The Sky Scraper
Ask any model rocket enthusiast and they will tell you that Estes is the top dog in backyard rocketry. The Alpha III rocket launch kit is the 3rd generation in their all-in-one beginner’s package and includes almost everything you need to get started in the hobby, such as a launch controller, launch pad, instructions, and rocket assembly kit. Depending on the option you choose, you may have to get a couple of essentials separately, such as model rocket engines, starters, and glue.
The Alpha III rocket itself is easy to assemble and yet still stands as one of the most lightweight and powerful rockets from Estes. In fact, it can reach up to 1,100 feet in the air, proving that easy assembly doesn’t mean weak performance. Best of all, the rocket can be used over and over again and the launch system is universal for all Estes rockets.
Pros:
- Works with 7 different engine types
- Great for kids 10+
- Great for adults, too
Cons:
- The kit does not contain model rocket engines, starters, recovery wadding, and glue
- Launch system requires four AA batteries
Estes Destination Mars Model Rocket Starter Set
Countdown to Fun
The Estes Destination Mars Rocket Set won’t take you to Mars, but it’s definitely a step in the right direction. This complete starter kit includes the Estes’ Porta-Pad II Launch Pad, two Estes C6-3 engines, four model rocket starters, an engine plug, a parachute, and recovery wadding. Even the masking tape, glue, screwdriver, and batteries are included. Simply build the rocket following the illustrated instructions, then connect the leads from the Electron Beam Launch Controller to the starter, step back a safe distance, and you’re ready for liftoff.
Pros:
- The rocket is big and a blast to launch
- Assembles in less than an hour
- Great for those with beginner-level skills
Cons:
- Heavier than other beginner rockets, so it doesn’t go quite as high
- Only includes two engines, so you’ll probably want to buy some more
4M Water Rocket Kit
Bottle Rocket
Understanding rocketry doesn’t have to involve fiery chemical engines (which is good news if you’ve got little kids). The 4M water rocket kit uses nothing but the power of water pressure to blast its rocket up to 90 feet in the air. The 4M kit provides everything you need: four fins (one for spare), one fin support, a bracket, bung, bung connector, pump connector, extension plastic pipe, and a detailed instruction guide. It even comes with a plastic bottle to get you started. When your bottle-rocket is ready to launch, simply fill 1/3 of the bottle with water, then pump air into the bottle through the extension plastic pipe. Then, with a quick release, the pressurized water will propel the bottle up and away.
Pros:
- Ideal for young science enthusiasts
- Easy to build
- An inexpensive entry into backyard rocketry
- Instructions include science lessons on propulsion
Cons:
- Requires the use of a bicycle pump
- Water gasket may leak under high pressure
Hand2mind Moving Creations
Rocket to the Mind
For kids with a sense of curiosity and exploration, try the rocket launch set from Hand2mind. It’s actually more than just a rocket launcher, it’s a whole STEM experience. The kit is built around Hand2mind’s patented K’NEX system, which functions a lot like building blocks. Each kit includes a guide book, storage box, tubing, pumps, K’NEX pieces, and a trusty blue rocket. Two of the available builds include rocket launching, while another 7 demonstrate other scientific principles.
Pros:
- Helps develop STEM skills
- Perfect science kit for pre-teens
- It can be expanded using K’NEX extension kits
Cons:
- Some of the concepts may require help from an adult
Frequently Asked Questions
Are model rockets with chemical engines safe?
Always abide by the recommended age range of these products. That being said, as long as you follow the directions and rules of rocketry, these systems should be safe in adult-supervised settings. In fact, the National Association of Rocketry (NAR) has created a Model Rocket Safety Code that makes model rocketry one of the safest outdoor hobbies you can enjoy.
I thought chemical model rocket engines were illegal?
Model rocketry, when conducted in accordance with the NAR Safety Codes, is a legal activity in all 50 US states. Some states, however, impose specific restrictions on high-powered rocketry and many local jurisdictions require some form of either notification or prior approval of the fire marshal. No matter where you live, we strongly urge you to check with your local laws about using these rockets.
Is it difficult to build model rockets?
No. Model rocket kits come in different skill-level grades from Beginner to Expert. In fact, the beginner kits are mostly plastic and very easy to put together. The advanced kits do take expert model-building skills but learning those skills is half the fun.
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