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Apogee Rocketry Workshop #421:

What Tools Do You Need for Building Model Rockets? - Skill Level 1

Advanced Construction Video

In this video, we’ll guide you through the essential tools you’ll need to successfully build Skill Level 1 rocket kits, the perfect starting point for any aspiring model rocketeer. These beginner-friendly kits are designed to help you learn the basics of model rocketry while having fun!

By mastering these basic tools, you’ll be well on your way to building your first rocket and preparing for more advanced projects in the future. Higher-level kits may present more challenges, but they also offer greater rewards and opportunities for creativity in your rocketry journey!

As you'll see, we'll cover some basic tools you'll use, like:

  • Hobby Knife: A sharp hobby knife is crucial for precise cutting of parts and components. It allows you to make clean cuts, which is essential for a successful build.
     
  • Ruler: Accurate measurements are key in model building. A ruler will help you measure and mark your materials accurately.
     
  • Pencil: Use a pencil for marking measurements and guidelines on your rocket parts. It’s easy to erase and adjust as needed.
     
  • Sandpaper: Sandpaper is important for smoothing edges and surfaces, ensuring that your rocket parts fit together nicely.
     
  • Sanding Tee: A sanding block (or sanding Tee) provides a stable surface for sanding, helping you achieve even and consistent results.
     
  • Wood Glue: This is the primary adhesive for assembling your rocket. It provides a strong bond for wood components and is easy to work with.
     
  • Medium Thick Super Glue - For quick repairs, and for gluing plastic nose cone pieces together.
     
  • Spray Paint: Once your rocket is assembled, spray paint can be used to give it a vibrant finish. Choose colors that reflect your style!
     
  • Masking Tape: Use masking tape to create clean lines when painting and to hold parts in place while the glue dries.

View this week's Rocketry Workshop Videos here. Tiime: 08:17 min:sec

Previous videos are found on our archive page.

 

24mm Fin Alignment Guide

Design your next rocket using RockSim

 

Newest Products From Apogee Components

Check out the latest products to hit Apogee's shelves!

Featherweight

Blue Jay PLUS Altimeter

Featherweight Ground Station for the GPS Tracker

COMING SOON!

The Featherweight Blue Jay PLUS is a new entry-level altimeter that does dual-deployment, and a whole lot more. Use it to: 

  • Dual Deployment so you don't have to walk so far to get your rocket
  • Electronic Staging - for high altitude flights (this is the PLUS version)
  • Data logging - so you can record and analyze you're rocket's flight 
  • Can be set up like a Chute Release for rockets with very small tubes
  • Simple set-up via a bluetooth app on your smart phone
  • Doesn't require a separate power switch - turns on/off with a wave of a strong magnet (the magnet is included!)

It is the smallest dual-deployment altimeter on the market, at 1.454"L x 0.657"W x 0.482"H and it will fit into a BT-20 (18mm dia) tube. 

They will fly off the shelf, so get one today!


750-lb Kevlar Shock Cord

750-lb Kevlar Shock Cord

Enhance the recovery reliability of your rocket with our 750-lb braided Kevlar shock cord, a great choice for mid-power rockets. Whether you're a seasoned rocketeer or just starting out, our 750-lb braided Kevlar shock cord is the perfect solution for your mid-power rocket needs, providing a sturdy and dependable connection between your rocket and recovery system. Available by the foot, customize the length to fit your specific rocket design and take advantage of the superior performance and reliability that only Kevlar can provide. Try it today, and see what difference it makes for your rocket.


Featherweight GPS Tracker

Featherweight GPS Tracker

Tired of losing rockets? That is now a thing of the past with the state-of-the-art GPS Tracker from Featherweight Altimeters. It is specifically engineered for high-power model rockets, but small enough to fit into a BT-50 size nose cone (24mm dia). With the ability to track your rocket at altitudes of up to 262,000 feet, this compact device ensures you never lose sight of your investment. Plus, it also records flight data, so you can study the flight later. Get one today!


 

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Customer TestimonialCustomer Comments

“I just recently got back into model rocketry and have heard good things about Apogee. I cruised over to the website and just for signing up for the newsletter, I got 50 rocket plans for FREE!! A lot has changed in the industry since I last built rockets so I watched the Avion Build tutorial taking copious notes and have already learned alot! I applied those techniques to the another rocket I am building and its looking pretty good. I placed my first order shortly after that and showed up earlier than expected (I don't say that very often!). I got a chance to work with customer service when I had a question about one of the gliders in the 25 rocket plans and got an answer the first thing the next day (I sent the question in the night before)..”

--  Dave Gerard

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