If you want a more challenging high-power build experience, I like the Hi-Tech H45 kit. It’s big (2.63″ diameter and 49″ tall), with sturdy plywood fins and a durable plastic nose cone, and it can handle motor types F through I. I got my first high-power certification on this model back in 1990. Good times!
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A few rungs up the ladder toward high power is Estes’ Big Daddy, a chunky, 3″- diameter model. While designed for D and E solid rocket motors, it can easily handle AeroTech’s 24mm F motors. It’s not much more difficult to build than the Astra, but bear in mind that an E motor has up to […]
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My friend Harrison Jones went to town on his green army man costume for Halloween, and nailed the classic icon. The result is definitely one of the best costumes I saw this year. How did he do it? Harrison started by picking out the perfect green tarp, then taking it to the hardware store and […]
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If you want a more challenging project that takes shape with some real cutting and sanding, small manufacturer Semroc produces high-quality balsa rocket kit reproductions. The Mars Lander, originally sold by Estes in the 1970s, is a beautifully realistic-looking spacecraft with spring-loaded landing legs. You can also try their Saturn 1B ($78), a 1/70 scale re-creation of the […]
Continue ReadingJimmy DiResta posted this great video showing how to quickly and safely change a saw blade. I’m overly cautious when I work with power tools, but I think I’d be confident trying this technique.
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In a follow-up to September’s Metal Working theme, for November, we’ll be delving deeper into machining tools: lathes, cutters, drill presses, metal CNC machines/laser cutters.
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I’ve been living car-free for 12 years. When I first saw Xtracycle’s cargo bike conversion kit, I was impressed by the broad utility of the design; it can be used to haul cargo and also passengers. I decided to build the ultimate people-and-stuff hauler so I could pick up friends who don’t bike and we could […]
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