Brief:
This is a heavy mod of the Astro X Rockets Black Zombie 1-B. This kit is from
Hobby Time. (They also
make a Wasserfall kit.)
Modifications:
I did quite a few modifications to the kit so a standard kit review wouldn't be
fair.
Construction:
The kit comes with:
I used a couple different glues. I wanted to try some of the Weldbond glue and used it on the centering rings and fins for the initial tack-up. Then I used yellow Titebond II glue for the remainder of the construction except for the Weldbond glue again for the final fin fillets. The Weldbond glue shrinks as much as yellow glue does but stays somewhat flexible. Finally, I added a thin layer of bondo spot putty to smooth things out a little better. I'm pleasantly surprised so far...no cracks. I also installed an Aerotech 29mm engine hook during assembly for motor retention and added an engine block that would contain a 29mm RMS reload casing. I use homemade spacers when loading EconoJets or other SU motors.
Finishing:
I used Krylon brown primer and Duplicolor black gloss enamel.
Flight:
I launched it for the first flight on an F23-7W .It flew better than I expected
to about 1,500'. It did have a slight amount of squiggle at its max speed (due
to the large fin surface area) but I am very happy with its performance. Maybe
squiggle isn't the right term for the last part of the powered flight...it was
more like short darting motions. It would change course ever so slightly but
definitely noticeable...
After running through some more simulations I determined that a small amount of noseweight is needed before I put the G in it.
Recovery:
Recovery was good as it came down just right on the 15" top flight chute.
The sod farm is great for recovery--wide open and soft.
Summary:
The Black Zombie sure looks great under power! Plus it's always very satisfying
to hear good feedback from the fellow club members.
This rocket definitely looks unique and I can't wait to put the decals and final touches on it.
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