Estes Astron Drifter
 

At long last, I have finished up with an Astron Drifter kit that I got... ummmm, awhile ago ;) I have long since lost the plans and specs on the bird, and I was just wondering what engines I can use in her. This is a big deal for me, I haven't launched any rockets since the early 80's, so I'm anxious to get one back in the clouds! I also have the Intergalactic Explorer Excalibur that I'm going to launch too, had that partially constructed and just recently got it all finished and decaled with a sheet from Excelsior.... looks pretty awesome, thanks Gordy!

Alrighty, any help with the engine selection for the Drifter would be most awesome.... thanks in advance ;)

Gunner

The catalog says 1/2A6-2, A8-3, B6-4, and C6-5. I would go with an A8-5 over the 3 as the modern A8-3 delays are very short, too short for the Drifter.

Take a look at your favorite old catalog for motor recommendations of other kits at this site, Ninfinger Productions: Model Rockets

Good deal, thanks so much..... "The song remains the same" ;)
Gunner

Nice
 

Very cool...where are the pictures? I just finished one myself and had the same question about engines

Have some pics forthcoming.... been busy with school, then finishing up the builds between semesters, "the checks in the mail" ;)
Gunner

Those catalog delays listed for the Astron Drifter are for long parachute duration, which is what the kit was designed for. Due to it being BT-50 with a boat-tail, if fles quite high for any given impulse level. If you want to recover it closer to the pad on a 12" (NOT 24" chute), use an A8-5, B6-6, B4-6, or C6-7.

Wow, just looking through some of the old catalogs, sure does bring back some fond memories.... if only I had some of the stuff now that I had way back when! I used to have both the CAMROC and the CINEROC..... (heavy sigh.) Look how far things have come though. The prices are crazy today though!

Gunner

I built my first drifter over the winter, blue skill tag. It hasn't made it to the launch pad yet but it's first flight is going to be a 1/2 A6-2 with the 24" chute. I want to see it DRIFT. :)

Good deal! I'm hoping to launch mine this weekend, along with the Excalibur and a Comet I built awhile back.... hopefully it is still flightworthy ;) I hope everyone has a safe and restful Memorial Day weekend, a special shout out to all my brothers and sisters in arms who have served this great nation!

Gunner