Estes Alpha III Beginner Flying Model Rocket Kit
Estes Alpha III Flying Model Rocket
Estes Alpha III Model Rocket
Estes Alpha III Packaging
Estes Alpha III Recovery
Estes Alpha III Altitude
Estes 1256 Alpha III Parts
Estes Alpha III Launch
Estes Alpha III Up Flame

Alpha III®

$24.99

Start your model rocketry journey with a true classic. The Alpha III was the first rocket in the beginner series. With pre-colored parts and self-stick decals, the Alpha III will be ready for liftoff in an hour. Whether you’re a first timer or a long time flyer, the Alpha III beginner rocket is a must have in every rocketeer's collection!

Skill Level Beginner
Build Assembly Required
Recommended Engines 1/2A6-2, A8-3, A8-5, B4-4,
B6-4, B6-6, C6-5, C6-7
Max Altitude 1150 ft. (351 m)
SKU 001256

Design & Features

Explore the design, features, and flight capabilities of the Alpha III®.

Join the hundreds of thousands of people who got their start in model rockets with this classic! The first rocket in the Beginner level series, the high-flying Alpha III was designed with beginners in mind.

Renown for its classic good looks, simple assembly, and excellent performance, the Alpha III beginner rocket is one of the model rocketry's best-known and most-loved designs. The black body tube, fluorescent orange nose cone and one piece fin unit makes this rocket easy-to-assemble and fun to fly! With nothing needed more then everyday household supplies and some glue, you'll be ready for liftoff in an hour.

Using Estes standard model rocket engines (sold separately), watch as the Alpha III soars to 1150 feet high. Once the rocket reaches its peak altitude, it will gently return to earth on its brightly colored, matching orange 12 inch parachute. Whether you're a first time rocketeer or a long time flyer, the Alpha III is a true classic that should be in everyone's collection.

Technical Specifications

Review the full specifications for the Alpha III®, including size, weight, recommended engines, and recovery system.

Recommended Engines

1/2A6-2, A8-3, A8-5, B4-4,
B6-4, B6-6, C6-5, C6-7

Launch System

Porta-Pad II

Launch Rod Size

1/8 in. (3.18 mm)

Max Altitude

1150 ft. (351 m)

Length

12.1 in. (30.7 cm)

Diameter

0.98 in. (25 mm)

Weight

1.2 oz. (34 g)

Fin Material

Molded Plastic

Recovery System

12 in. (30.5 cm) Parachute
Recommended for ages 10+ with adult supervision for rocketeers under 12

Required Launch Equipment

Add these launch supplies to your cart to get your Alpha III® ready for flight.
Estes Porta-Pad II Launch Pad
Electron Beam Launch Controller
Estes model rocket engines
Starters
Recovery wadding
Four 1.5V high quality AA alkaline batteries

Required Tools & Supplies

Gather these tools and supplies before starting your Alpha III® build.
Scissors
Pencil
Ruler
Fine Sandpaper
Carpenter's Glue
Hobby Knife

Customer Reviews

Based on 17 reviews
94%
(16)
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6%
(1)
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0%
(0)
J
John S (Houston, TX)
Experience level: Advanced
Fast and easy construction

Fast and easy construction. Ready to fly very quickly

C
Caitlin Ferguson (Cambridge, ID)
awsome

I loved it!

J
Joe (Arlington, MA)
A
Anonymous (Westland, MI)
Alpha (((

time tested, consistent and should cost about $7 as it costs about $2.89 to produce.

R
Robert Prout (Chicago, IL)
Great

Easy build, looks good

J
John Doe (Westport, CT)
Best Rocket Ever

Worked great after 5 years still in box!!!

Trusted Since 1958

From first launch to lifelong hobby, Estes stands behind every product and every customer.