We get calls all the time from people saying they opened up a kit package, only to find that the tube coupler is stuck inside the tube. The manufacturers of kits put the couplers inside the tubes to save on shipping space and costs. But now the coupler is stuck. How do you fix this issue?

This has been such a pervasive problem that I finally had to make a video showing how to get them out. Watch it, so that when your new rocketry friend asks you about the next kit they get, you'll have the perfect answer to give to them.

Newest Products Released This Week!

The Tinder Rocketry Firebird Recessed Ejection Charge Wells are a great option for those dual-deployment rockets with limited space for parachutes. These canisters are recessed into the ebay, which means you have more space for your parachute in your payload bay compartment. They also simplify setup, because your igniter wires go directly into the bottom of the well inside the ebay - so no need for terminal blocks or running them through holes in your bulkhead. The Firebird Wells come in three sizes - 3G, 6G and 9G. Check it out today!

This past week, we also got in a couple of new Aerotech motors, the 29mm diameter: E24C and the F67C. We didn't get them in the newsletter this past Tuesday, but they are already on our website and ready to ship out immediately. If you want to be the first one in your club to have them, now is your chance to get them before everyone else hears about them.

Rocketry Tool of the Month - Alligator Jaw Forceps

At the begining of May, we introduced our specially designed alligator jaw forceps. This specialty tool is custom made for Apogee Components, and is perfect for model rocketry enthusiasts. These forceps, inspired by E.N.T. (ear, nose, throat) instruments, feature a unique scissor-like handle that ensures a comfortable and easy grip. With their long jaw, they are ideal for precision work in tight spaces, such as the interior of rockets.

The alligator jaw design of the forceps is equipped with serrated teeth, providing a secure and powerful grip. This allows you to handle delicate or slippery components with confidence. The long and narrow jaws enable you to reach deep into small spaces, making it effortless to grasp hard-to-reach parts.

What sets our forceps apart is their remarkable ability to effortlessly navigate through even the tiniest holes, with a diameter as small as 0.15 inches. This makes them an invaluable tool for assembling model rockets, where precise placement and secure fastening are paramount.

Crafted from high-quality stainless steel, our alligator jaw forceps are built to last. They offer reliability and durability, ensuring they will be a dependable tool for all your model rocketry endeavors. Whether you are an experienced hobbyist or just beginning your journey, these forceps are the perfect addition to your toolkit.

Take your model rocketry to new heights by ordering your very own alligator jaw forceps today!

To get this set of alligator forceps for free (a $13.95 value), just purchase $150 worth of Apogee's merchandise and add the coupon code at checkout on our website. This offer only lasts until May 31. Some people didn't believe us that we're firm on the end date of these special Tool-of-the-Month offers. But we do not extend or retroactively add them to orders after the cut-off date. So you must act soon, or you'll miss out on this special deal.

Lots of Stuff Going On Next Week

First of all, on Tuesday we'll be releasing our 600th issue of the Peak-of-Flight Newsletter. We've been consistently putting them out since the year 2000. To celebrate, we've redesigned the layout. But nothing else has changed. Our goal is to provide you with how-to information that is useful to help you become a better rocketeer. The feature article in the newsletter is about adding Greeblies to your rocket to enhance the appearance. Don't know what greeblies are? You'll have to check out the newsletter to find out.

There will also be several new products released next week. The first is the new Apogee kit called the Kestrel. This high-flying bird is medium-size rocket, but has a large 29mm diameter motor mount in it. That means it takes F and G size motors. Yes, with the right size engine, you can push this bird to supersonic speeds.

Also Tuesday, we're hoping to release the new version of the Simple Timer for Staging. What is new in this version is a separate deployment channel that occurs at apogee during the trajectory. This makes the device more useful because you don't have to have a separate dual-deployment altimeter in the rocket in case the rocket doesn't successfully stage. I've been waiting a long time for this edition, as it can be used for lots of different rockets.

Then on Wednesday, we'll be releasing the new North Coast Rocketry kit called the Javelin. It is a scale model of a four-stage sounding rocket. But this one is only a single stage vehicle, so you won't have to worry about trying to find all the pieces in the sky.

And finally, here in the United States, we have the Memorial Day weekend. It is the unofficial start of the summer flying season. I'll be heading down to Alamosa, Colorado for the the National Sport Launch (NSL) of the NAR. It is a great flying field, with lots of wide open space for recovering high flying rockets like the Kestrel. Maybe I'll see you there?

I'll see you in your email in-box next Tuesday.