Brief:
This is a Starter Set that includes the Stars & Stripes E2X Series rocket with streamer recovery, two B6-4 motors, igniters and wadding. Also included is a launch pad, controller, special USA decal and complete instructions for the rocket and launch pad and controller.

Construction:
The rocket components included a white BT-56 body tube, red fin assemblies and retention ring, blue nose cone, shock cord, launch lug, American Flag streamer and decals for two different decal schemes.

The instructions included were very good, so good in fact that someone with little or no previous rocketry experience wouldn't have any problem assembling this kit. This is a very easy rocket to build. I built mine in about an hour and a half. The only materials needed were tube type plastic cement, white glue, scotch tape and a hobby knife. The parts fit for this rocket couldn't have been better. Everything went together very nicely and easily with absolutely no modifications. PROS: Easy and quick construction. CONS: None

Finishing:
I don't know if I would use the term "Finishing" with this kit due to the precolored components. I finished the model by trimming the flashing from the nose cone. I then attached the streamer to the shock cord with scotch tape as recommended by the instructions. I really don't like this method of attachment as the tape wants to peel away from the streamer. I then attached the decals for the scheme that I picked. The result was a sharp looking patriotic rocket commemrating the 9/11/01 terrorist attacks on our country. Way to go Estes. PROS: No painting required CONS: Method of streamer attachment

Construction Rating: 5

Flight:
The recommend motors are the A8-3, B4-4, B6-4, C6-5, C6-7. This rocket does require the use of recovery wadding to protect the streamer and since the streamer is paper, you should use more wadding than required to prevent scorching. The retaining ring holds the motor in place during flight and is adequate. I have only flown this rocket once so far. Another problem with the streamer is that it is somewhat challenging to pack as it wants to unravel. I wind it up as tightly as possible and then wrap the shock cord around it. I used one of the B6-4's provided for my flight. The rocket flew straight and true with a slow rotation to about 450-500 feet. Not bad for a B motor. I can't imagine what a C will do. PROS: Nice flyer. CONS: Streamer is a little tough to pack properly.

Recovery:
With the provided streamer, this rocket comes down FAST!!! Fast enough to pose a potential recovery hazard. I thought about catching it, but when I saw it falling like a homesick rock, I immediately backed off. Luckily the rocket landed in some tall grass and there was no damage. Whoa. I would highly recommend a 9 or 10 inch parachute to slow the descent. PROS: None CONS: Very fast descent on stock streamer.

Flight Rating: 4

Summary:
Priced at about $19.99, I feel that this set is a real value for someone just getting into the hobby. However, I received mine as a Christmas gift from my girlfriend. I do however, highly recommend replacing the streamer with a small parachute to eliminate a potential recovery hazard. Main PROS: Great value for a newcomer. Main CONS: Streamer and method of streamer attachment.

Overall Rating: 5