Flight Log - 2013-11-11 - Kirk Greenfield's FireHawk by Estes

Got this as a partially assembled rocket, ready for flight.  Glued the Fin assembly onto the tube, straightened out the parachute, glued a launch lug onto the side and packed it with recovery wadding for first flight. Not a very heavy or substantial rocket, but it's supposed to be a first-timers thrill.  Main body tube is easily crushable!

Flight Date: 2013-11-11
Rocket Name: FireHawk by Estes
Kit Name: Estes - Firehawk {Kit} (00804)
Flyer's Name: Kirk Greenfield
Motors: A8-3
Expected Altitude: 200.00 Feet
Wind Speed: 7.00 mph
Launch Site: Athens Community Gardens: West State Street Park
Actual Altitude: 250.00 Feet

Repacked the chute more carefully along with a single sheet of recovery wadding. The nose cone was barely staying on, it was spongy underneath with the shock cord coiled inside. Switched to the recommended A3-4 and the mini-motor took it almost out of my sight. Ejection charge worked fine, with good hang time.  Worried me as the drift almost took it into the river trees, but I was able to run over an catch it in hand on the paved bike path. A SUCCESS!  What a little performer! The locking engine ring is a little smoked, but with a second one available, I'm not concerned yet. This is clearly an introductory rocket and somewhat disposable.  But boy, what a performer for a starter!

StageMotor(s)
1Estes A8-3

 

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