FlisKits Deuce's Wild

FlisKits - Deuce's Wild {Kit} (CL002)

Contributed by Carl Tulanko

Construction Rating: starstarstarstarstar
Flight Rating: starstarstarstarstar
Overall Rating: starstarstarstarstar
Diameter: 1.64 inches
Length: 21.20 inches
Manufacturer: FlisKits
Skill Level: 3
Style: Cluster, Sport

Rocket PicBrief:
The Deuces Wild is a very unique model rocket from FlisKits, a newer company on the block in the model rocket industry. The Deuce boasts a cluster using dual 'canted' 18mm motors, which gives it a really cool look both on the pad and in the air.

Construction:
The model came in a plastic bag, similar to Estes Rockets, but that is where the similarity ends. Inside the bag was a real balsa nosecone, something I have not seen in kits for years, along with motor mounts, plenty of Balsa for fins, parachute, hardware and body tube. What impressed me was the quality of the components; the bodytube has a nearly invisible spiral!

Moreover, when I purchased my 'build' kit, it came with the new laser cut fiber centering rings, which was one of the changes mentioned/recommended in a previous review. In fact, I had purchased an earlier Deuces Wild! kit, serial #9, but wound up saving that one due to the low serial number (yes, they actually serial number the first 100 kits produced off each line; a nice feature for collectors). When I ordered the second Deuce, FlisKits sent me an extra set of laser cut CR's for my 'pre-mod' kit so it would also have the upgrade. This was the first time I had seen a manufacturer actually follow through with suggestions from rocketeers, then actually ship an upgrade for the model; this is the kind of service that is unheard of in this day and age; well done FlisKits!

Building the model was a blast as the well written instructions made it very easy to construct. I started by using the new fiber laser cut CR's to build the motor mount assembly and it went together well. Extra tips in the instructions on keeping the mount 'square' to the CR's made it very easy to assemble. The MMT uses an upper and lower centering ring, with a triangle support wedge for additional support and proper spacing of the rings; it is a very solid unit once built.

Following the MMT construction, you need to cut out a 'wrap' for marking and cutting the body tube. My wrap fit perfectly and I marked the position of the fins, launch lugs and the openings for the MMT tubes. Next, I cut out each motor tube opening and test fit the MMT assembly; FlisKits has put some thought and effort into their templates as it was a good match. The motor mount assembly was glued into the bottom of the bodytube following the instructions.

A nice touch for the model is the fact that you have to 'cut out' your own fins from balsa stock.

This was very enjoyable and made it seem like you were really building the entire model, not just assembling parts like other mfgrs. Fin patterns were simple to use and I was impressed at the fact that there was actually balsa left over, another nice surprise as I had more than I needed, rather than having to worry about being short changed. The fins were glued to the model and they state that you do not need to round the edges of the fins. I decided to go 100% stock and followed all the instructions to the letter for that 'nostalgic' look/build.

Rocket PicRocket PicRocket Pic

In keeping with tradition, I even used the three-fold paper shock cord mount, provided with the templates. Once installed, I coated the top of it with glue and to date is still in great condition, even with many launches. The nosecone was next; they recommend using sanding sealer, but I used thin CA glue instead, which after two coats and some sanding gave the nosecone that plastic look and feel. An 'eye' screw is provided for mounting the other end of the shock cord to the nosecone, which worked out well. Finally, the parachute was assembled. FlisKits uses a plastic parachute similar to Estes, where the chute is cut out per the instructions on the parachute plastic and shroud lines are attached. One unique difference is that they use a single parachute pattern for all sizes; you simply cut out the size you need from the pre drawn pattern.

Finishing:

I finished the model using Krylon paints, after rubbing Elmer's Fill and Finish in the balsa grain; I did mine in a Red-Silver-Black pattern. After a few coats of primer, the paint went on and covered well. I did not bother clear coating as I didn't want to add extra weight. As is, the model is surprisingly light considering it's size.

Construction Rating: 5 out of 5

Flight:

I showed up to the launch field on an off-week for our local club to find two of our club officers getting ready to fly LPR. We set up some pads quickly and I began prepping the Deuces Wild for it's first flight. I used two B6-4's for the maiden voyage and went completely traditional, using tissue for wadding and masking tape to retain the motors.

Recovery:

The Deuce took to the air under dual power to a nice and low flight of around 250=92 or so and ejection happened just beyond apogee. The model floated gently to the ground using the 16" parachute and landed without a scratch. With as light as it is, I could almost bet it would take a tumble in without chute and still do fine. I launched a few other rockets and by then the wind had calmed a bit, so I prepared the Deuces Wild! again with a pair of C6-5's this time. Both motors lit and the smoke trail was very defined and cool- I finally got to see my first dual cluster smoke trail and it was a great one at that! Altitude was very good, flight was straight as an arrow and ejection happened right at apogee. From then on, I have been hooked. The Deuce had flown several times since then, mostly on C6 motors and has even landed unscathed with a broken shroud line on my chute. I have been very pleased with the looks and performance of this model.

Flight Rating: 5 out of 5

Summary:

In summary, the FlisKits Deuces Wild! is an easy building, great flying model that screams nostalgia, thanks to good old fashioned high quality components, yet it boasts high tech with a canted cluster design. The manufacturers have got it right on this one and I highly recommend this kit to anyone that wants a great rocket that is even a better flier. In fact, I liked it so much I designed and build a 38mm upscale of the 'Deuce' and hope to debut it at NSL 2003. More to come on that, but for now, I recommend you look at this modestly priced model as an addition to your fleet. You don't have to worry about gambling on this one as you just can't lose with 'Deuces Wild!'.

Overall Rating: 5 out of 5

Other Reviews
  • FlisKits Deuce's Wild By Hank Helmen (November 13, 2008)

    This is a skill level 3, two engine canted cluster rocket. The Duce has one body tube and uses four fins. It comes with a very nice balsa nose cone and two parachutes. The motor mount is unique but goes together easily and works great. Two pre-cut engine mounting rings are included with in the hardware. A BT-60 body tube is supplied in the kit as well as 30" of thin shock cord. The 1/8" ...

  • FlisKits Deuce's Wild By Mike Salter

    The Deuce's Wild! is (in my opinion) one of the most innovative kits available at the moment and will undoubtedly become a classic. It's unique point is the dual smoke trails from the canted motors, a great spectacle that grabs anyone's attention. The moment I saw the Deuce (when FlisKits first opened), I wanted one and soon set about trying to bring them to the UK...this basically involved ...

  • FlisKits Deuce's Wild By Dick Stafford

    Brief: Just another quick review of The Rocketry Forum's favorite kit...large fins, 2 canted 18mm motors, 'nuff said! I won't repeat all of this information, I'll just be pointing out what I think are the high points, assuming you have read the other reviews, above. The parts are all of good quality, and the laser cut fiber motor mount components make assembly easy. With a balsa nose cone, ...

  • FlisKits Deuce's Wild By Jason Toft

    (by Jason Toft - 04/15/03) Brief: An awesome little rocket with dual canted motor mounts. Just BEGGING to be upscaled Construction: When I received my Deuce, there was one 17 inch BT-60 tube, a balsa ogive nose, fin stock, motor mount materials, and other miscellaneous materials required for construction. (launch lugs, chute, etc.) I opened the package and inspected the quality ...

  • FlisKits Deuce's Wild By Douglas Gardei

    Dual Canted 18mm motor mounts. Designed to produce two distinctive smoke trails when launched. The Deuce's Wild comes with Estes quality parts. The Body tube is BT-60 sized, and is topped with a nice Balsa nosecone. The kit includes two 18mm motor tubes, and two thrust rings. No motor hooks are provided. Two sheets of balsa is used to cut out the four large fins form the pattern provided. The ...

Flights

Comments:

avatar
J.F. (October 2, 2002)
As the manufacturer of the Deuce's Wild, I wanted to make a couple of comments about the kit and the review: First, and quite important, the Deuce's Wild! (and all FlisKits rocket kits) come with VERNON Estes quality parts. A significant difference we beleive, in the eyes of the long-time rocketeers. As for the motor mount, we have has several people construct the motor mount as described in the instructions with no problems, but we are still looking into possible changes per Doug's input. Cutting fins out by hand is a *feature* of FlisKits products. Gives a modeler a reason to learn how to use the tools of the trade, in our opinion. FlisKits is in the process of lengthening the shock cord on most of our kits, but the cord currently packaged with the Deuce's Wild is 18". If the one received with this kit was "less than a foot", then a problem got past our QC and will be corrected. We have also found tape disks with a much higher tack adhesive, so FlisKits parachutes will exhibit much higher quality and long life for your model. The paint job, pictures and vid's are all WONDERFUL. You did a FINE job constructing this model! KUDO's!
avatar
L.V. (November 23, 2002)
I also have a Deuce's Wild kit #7. I too had a little problem with the motor mounting, but the rest of the kit went together great. I like the idea of cutting out the fins. I remember that from my early days of building rockets. I hope they don't change that. Mine has flown twice so far both times on a pair of B6-4s.Both flights straight and perfect. I also left the chute large. The dual smoke trails are really neat. This rocket is well worth the cost and is a lot of fun. Thanks Fliskits!!!
avatar
G.D. (December 1, 2002)
My Fliskits Deuces' Wild is production #33. Just building it slow. Nice kit!
avatar
J.F. (January 3, 2003)
UPDATE from FLisKits: For the record, after talking with other folks and reviewing the kit, parts and instructions, FlisKits decided that Doug was right on the money in regard to the motor mount assembly on the Deuce's Wild. Therefore, we have created a set of laser-cut rings and changed the assembly instructions to match what Doug came up with. These new rings, with modified instructions are already shipping with new orders. Additionally, FlisKits has contacted all customers who have purchased but not yet built their Deuce's Wild! kit and have shipped them a set of rings and instructions for use. We (FlisKits) have a very good product set, but not a "perfect" product set. Your help, feedback and suggestions go a long way toward helping us reach perfection. You talk, we listen and everybody benefits! Thank you!
avatar
C.T. (January 24, 2003)
I just finished building my Deuces Wild and wanted to add that this kit is a MUST HAVE for anyone's fleet. I was one of the first if not the first to use the new "Laser Cut" black fiber Centering Rings during construction and they were a dream to work with; it takes all the worry of cutting your own out of the picture...Well done FlisKits! I alos agree with the ease of construction that Doug has posted and the results are astounding. Mine will fly this weekend and I will post a report.
avatar
J.W.M. (May 6, 2003)
I got my Deuce in the mail on Sat and built it that nite! It has the new laser cut rings and went together like a dream! Painted on Sunday and I can't wait to fly it (raining and 40 M.P.H. winds today). I gotta a bulk pack-o-motors and a fresh charge on the launch batteries just waiting for the sun!!
avatar
D.A.S. (August 19, 2003)
After losing my beloved and much-launched Flea at a CMASS launch, I had the good fortune to purchase my second FlisKit, the Deuce's Wild, from Jim himself! This is definitely a "builder's" kit. The jewel-like quality of the components, and excellent instructions, make it a real kick to build. You can really sink your teeth into this one. It's no wonder this kit keeps getting rave reviews- they are well-deserved. It looks bad to the bone with those huge fins and dual motor mounts. I can't wait to get my Deuce to a big field and fly it. Keep up the good work, Jim and Brian!
avatar
S.E.O. (August 30, 2004)
Sent My DW up on it's maiden flight. The canted motors are very cool. This kit is definitely worth every penny!

comment Post a Comment