Brief:
This is the Launch Pad's scale Sidewinder AIM-9L missile model. This is a mid-power rocket with a parachute recovery.

Construction:
This kit comes with balsa planks, two body tubes, a plastic nose-cone, centering rings, and all other standard kit pieces. It also comes with putty for nose-cone weight. The shock cord was simple elastic, which was a bit inadequate for this great model. There are also lots of other small balsa shapes, and dowels for the construction.

I found the kit straight forward, and this was my first non-Estes rocket. And, I wont work on anything less challenging again! The instructions are lengthy, but when followed carefully will make for an enjoyable project. I followed other reviewer's tips. When I built the stringers for each side of the fin, I put them on at an angle and drilled holes for more realism.

I read that the balsa supplied from TLP is soft, and followed their advice of coating with CA. Still, after launching, this is still too soft and I have had some fin damage. I will repair using paper over the balsa, then coating for CA, and see if that holds. I do think the forward fins need some reinforcement.

All in all, construction was straight forward. Lots of small details make this fun. Note: I have not modeled since I was a kid, and did not find this too challenging.

Finishing:

As with all TLP models, no decals, but that is ok. I painted using simple primer coats, and testors spray paint. See pictures for the finish. I also looked at as many pics as I could find and found a few small details like painting the forward guidance pivots red. I love the way the model looks and I have received lots of compliments.

Construction Rating: 4 out of 5

Flight:
Flew this model only once so far. Launched in a slight wind in San Francisco at the base of the Golden Gate Bridge. Used the recommended D12-3 motor. Used small amount of wadding.

Fox 2! Weathercocked only slightly. Flew beautifully and straight. Chute deployed at apogee. Chute got tangled on forward fin, but had some resistance on decent.

Recovery:
I increased the length of the shock cord, with a round, black piece of elastic. Love the look and functionality. However, as mentioned, the chute got tangled somehow. The first ever recovery malfunction I have had with any rocket I own. Consequently, I had some slight fin damage on the forward fins.

Flight Rating: 4 out of 5

Summary:
I love this rocket. It was fun to build, and to fly. It is the best looker in my arsenal of democracy. I love this company and their kits and have built more and will continue to do so.

Overall Rating: 4 out of 5

Other:
I would reinforce the forward fins. Might even try and find some light plywood. At the very least, I might try the technique of overlaying tissue or 20 lb paper and CA that over the balsa. Other than that, would not change a thing.