Brief:
"Ready to Fly" kit.

Construction:
Three clear plastic fins and some great decals give this model a realistic look like the Patriot missile. It has a plastic engine mount with an engine retainer ring, not a hook. Typical Estes elastic shock cord and plastic chute.

The only step required was to attach the parachute to the shock cord. Instructions were good and easy to follow. Nothing extra required to complete the rocket.

Finishing:
This rocket has great looks. The decal is highly detailed and very colorful. "Old school" Estes black and yellow parachute too!

Construction Rating: 5 out of 5

Flight:
The instructions had great details about how to prep the rocket and have a successful flight. Perfect for a beginner. The engine is retained with a 1/2 turn screw-on cap. Very easy to use.

Flights were very nice and straight. On a C engine, I had a better chute ejection with a 3 second delay than the 5 second that is recommended. With a 5 second delay, the rocket was past apogee when the chute popped although I don't think that there would be a danger of zippering the BT.

On the last flight, the rocket actually landed standing. Very cool!

Recovery:
Recovery was very good, and the chute is correctly sized for the rocket. Typical in Estes kits, I believe that the elastic shock cord will get burnt and break eventually. As long as you don't skimp on the wadding, this rocket will last a long time!

Flight Rating: 5 out of 5

Summary:
This is a great rocket to get someone interested in rocketry. It is easy and fun to use and has a nice, visible flight profile. It doesn't go too high, and recovery shouldn't be an issue. I had as much fun with this rocket as my scratch built ones!

Overall Rating: 5 out of 5