K-46 Astron Shrike™

The K-46 Astron Shrike™ brings back a legendary model from Estes’ early days. Originally released in the golden era of model rocketry, this design has been reintroduced as part of the exclusive From the Vault series. The Shrike combines historic appeal with modern craftsmanship, giving experienced builders a chance to own and fly a piece of rocketry history.

Two-Stage Power and Payloader Design

What makes the Astron Shrike truly unique is its combination of multistage flight and payloader capability. The booster stage provides the extra energy needed to reach altitudes up to 1,500 feet, while the upper stage payload section allows rocketeers to experiment with small cargo or creative mission ideas. This dual function makes it one of the most versatile kits in the series.

Balsa Construction for True Vintage Craftsmanship

The Astron Shrike features a balsa wood nose cone and laser-cut balsa fins, offering builders the classic materials that defined early model rocketry. These lightweight wood components shape beautifully, sand smoothly, and create a polished finish that feels authentic to the era. Combined with modern precision cutting, the Shrike offers both nostalgia and elevated performance.

High-Altitude Thrills

The Astron Shrike flies on standard 18mm Estes engines, with a range of booster and upper-stage combinations. Recommended engines include A8-0, B6-0, and C6-0 for the booster, and A8-3, A8-5, B6-6, C6-5, and C6-7 for the upper stage. With proper setup, you can enjoy dramatic two-stage flights followed by smooth recoveries under the 12 inch parachute.

What You’ll Need

To complete your Astron Shrike build, you’ll need basic hobby tools and supplies: pencil, ruler, masking tape, scissors, hobby knife, carpenter’s glue, fine and extra-fine sandpaper, primer, paint, and an optional clear coat. For launch, pair your Shrike with the Porta-Pad® II Launch Pad, Electron Beam® Launch Controller, recovery wadding, and your choice of recommended engines.