I bought a Lil’ Spite kit about a week ago and just started building it. This is an excellent kit, and I’ve probably built a hundred Estes kits since the late sixties when I first got involved with model rockets. I especially like the plywood fins. I won’t be flying it with high power engines (although I could if I wanted to), an F or possibly a G will be plenty for me. One thing I wish had been included is an engine thrust block. I always but thrust blocks in my rockets unless I know I’m always going to use a composite motor which doesn’t nee one. Minor issue, easily corrected. I love the back story of this rocket and it’s big brother Spite, and why Xyla built it! Can’t wait to get it in the air!
The Origin of Spite
The story of Lil’ Spite starts with a rocket called Spite.
When Xyla first built Spite, it wasn’t just about flying high or fast. It was about proving to herself she could do it. Tired of people who didn’t believe she belonged in engineering because of who she is or how she looks, she built a rocket that roared past expectations. The Spite rocket flew on a M motor to 23,000 feet at 2.2 times the speed of sound!
That rocket was a statement. And Lil’ Spite carries that same spirit forward, this time scaled down to 2:3 size so more rocketeers can share the journey.
Designing Lil’ Spite at Estes
This rocket wasn’t just inspired by Xyla; it was guided by her from the very beginning.
Xyla visited Estes twice during the development of Lil’ Spite. Her first visit was all about design, working alongside our engineers to create the first prototype and put her stamp of approval on the look, feel, and performance goals of the rocket. From the carbon fiber fin decals to the slim 2-inch body and bold black styling, her vision drove the design choices.
Her second visit brought it all full circle. Xyla returned to help us with the test launch of the final product. She personally launched her rocket, reviewed performance data, and ensured the design matched the vision. It wasn’t just collaboration; it was partnership.
Power and Flexibility in Every Flight
Lil’ Spite was built with progression in mind. Xyla wanted a rocket that could help rocketeers achieve more with a single design.
- 200 ft on a D12-3 for entry-level launches.
- 1,200 ft on an F15-6 for thrilling performance.
- Push further with high-power composite motors for flights of 3,000+ ft.
- *Level 1 flights require proper certification and compliance with NAR safety codes. https://www.nar.org/
Whether you’re just stepping into advanced rocketry or chasing your certification goals, Lil’ Spite adapts to your journey.
The Build Experience
This is an intermediate-level kit designed to reward makers. With simple tools, you’ll shape, finish, and personalize your rocket before its first flight.
That hands-on approach is exactly what Xyla values. As she explained:
“Part of the motivation for this kit is what would I have liked to build when I was growing up.”
Building Lil’ Spite is meant to be a milestone, an approachable challenge that still inspires pride when it leaves the pad.
Why Lil’ Spite Matters
For Xyla, rockets are more than flights; they’re shared experiences. She told us,
“Some of the best videos that I receive from fans are when parents take their kids out to launch rockets for the first time.”
That sense of community, discovery, and passing knowledge on is at the heart of Lil’ Spite.
From concept meetings at Estes to launch day on the pad, Xyla guided the project every step of the way. And now, Lil’ Spite is ready to guide you toward higher flights, bigger goals, and the next chapter in your rocketry story.
Launch Your Story
Build Lil’ Spite. Launch it. Push beyond what you thought was possible. Because just like Xyla, you can be the hero of your own story. Order your Lil' Spite here and see how far your story can fly!
Let us know how your Lil’ Spite flew and send a picture or video to marketing@estesrockets.com.
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