Description
(Formerly Skill Level 2)
Envisioned by Estes designers to be operational by 2050, the Estes “Interceptor” is an ultra-sophisticated rocket that could patrol our galaxy for possible aggression by hostile aliens. Highly advanced defense systems, which includes photon and laser armaments as well as ION drive for extended tours around the Milky Way only enhance the rocket! This kit returns with quality features Estes is known for like laser cut balsa parts, two full color waterslide decals and detailed plastic parts including the nose cone, wing pods and tail cone. When properly outfitted for launch, flights over 500 feet are possible with a soft landing on a colorful 18 inch parachute. The futuristic looking Interceptor is sure to be the envy of everyone at the launch site.
WHAT YOU NEED TO BUILD: Scissors, pencil, ruler, fine sandpaper, carpenter’s glue, plastic cement, wax paper, sanding block, hobby knife, masking tape, primer (white) and paint (black, fluorescent orange, white). (Tools, construction and finishing supplies not included.)
WHAT YOU NEED TO LAUNCH (sold separately): Estes Porta-Pad II Launch Pad and Electron Beam Launch Controller, Estes model rocket engines, starters and recovery wadding. Four 1.5V high quality AA alkaline batteries are also required for launch controller (not included).
WARNING
bayard –
I built one long ago, at least back to 1971, probably even before that. I got to fly it one time. It flew beautifully, the parachute opened fine and … it drifted in the wind… over the houses around the sports field I launched it from, I ran… through yards, over fences… and I was about 10’ short when it smacked down on the asphalt road and broke up the wings…
Rob Szrama –
Bought mine in 1971. By far the coolest rocket that I built. Don’t gotoo small on the engine. I had one do a ballistic arc launch where the shoot didn’t pop till probably 20 feet above the ground. Fortunately it did it’s job. I gave it away when I went in the Air Force in 1976 and think I will have to buy another one now. I looked for this kit a few months ago and it wasn’t there. Guess they brought it back. Wise choice my friend.
Rocket Guru –
Had 2 Estes Interceptors, 1 stock 18mm BP motors only, launched it 3 times, but was lost in high winds, at altitude. It flew great, with a nice arching at apogee. So I purchased another, for an up power mod to a 24mm motors using an Estes 9751 24mm Motor Retainer and plywood centering rings, for up to 3 Grain composite motors. Recut the fins, with through tube extensions, to the larger engine mount and slotted the body tube. Installed an ejection baffle, nylon shock cord, parachute are upgrades for recovery and added some nose weight. Haven’t launched it yet, but will take photos and should be really impressive, with a green, or red flame. Seen rocket glider conversions, this will probably be my final purchase and mod of an Estes Interceptor. Would definitely recommend this kit for R&D kit bashing.
The Wrocketrider –
Stunning Classic…
Well, here you go…for all of those of you who have asked for a re-issue – they did it for you! No rocket collection is complete with this most iconic of Estes kits. A joy just to look at, this rocket displays well (especially hung in horizontal “flying” position) and is excellent in flight too. One note, when I first attempted this kit as kid, I wasn’t paying enough attention to the orientation of the fins/wings on the body tube and I had them rotated over a position or two…so pay attention to which fin/wing goes on which line so that yours doesn’t come out all crooked like my first one…(I have a good – adult built- one now…!).