Model rocket kits are a fun way for kids to exercise their maker skills by assembling cool, colorful rockets that really fly. I can remember building model rockets as a child, and they are still an exciting project for all ages. In addition to maker skills, model rockets are an educational tool that can teach the concepts of propulsion, flight, and aerodynamics.
It’s important to note that when purchasing model rocket kits, make sure that you have all of the supplies required to build and fly your rockets. Any building tools, glue, paint, batteries for the launcher controller, and rocket specific items like wadding and engine packs should be on your list. You’re also going to need an outside area large enough to fly. Go outside and get flying!
Model Rocket Kits
Estes 1469 Tandem-X Launch Set | Check price at | |
Estes Alpha III Rocket Launch Set | Check price at | |
Estes Designer Special | Check price at | |
Estes Black Star Voyager Model Rocket Kit | Check price at | |
Estes 0651 Der Red Max Flying Model Rocket | Check price at | |
Estes 2178 Hi-Flier Flying Model Rocket Kit Lowest Price | Check price at | |
Estes 2162 Big Daddy Flying Model Rocket Kit | Check price at |
1. Estes 1469 Tandem-X Launch Set
The Estes 1469 Tandem-X Launch Set is the perfect model rocket kit for beginners. It includes two cool rockets that are easy to assemble, as well as an entire launch system. Launchpad, parachutes and more all come with this fully appointed kit. A great way to get started with model rocketry. Make sure to purchase wadding and engine packs to have everything needed for your first launch.
2. Estes Alpha III Rocket Launch Set
Build a cool orange rocket and send it 1100 feet in the air with the Estes Alpha III Rocket Launch Set. The included rocket is easy to build and the launchpad system can be used with other rockets. This is a classic model rocket kit that rocket scientists of all ages will enjoy. If you grew up doing model rockets you might find this a really great reintroduction to them. It’s a great way to spend a few hours with your kids on the weekend; they’ll love watching the rockets launch and then chasing them down. Estes is still the easiest way to get started. This kit is an easy an introduction and starter to model rocketry.
3. Estes Designer Special
The Estes Designer Special has everything needed up to eight model rockets. Young makers can use their imagination and design cool, high-flying rockets. This is great for those that already own one of the other model rocket kits that include a launchpad. Try out “open rocket” open source building programs to design your own rockets from the ground up.
4. Estes 3 Bandits Model Rocket Kit
The Estes 3 Bandits Model Rocket Kit has three easy to build rockets. They come in cool colors, are small and easy to handle for younger rocket scientists, and the kit includes fun self-stick decals, eliminating the need for paint. The construction will be a fun little project with kids, but it does help to have an adult handy as there are subtle points—like gluing the shock cord at least 1″ inside the nose—but this is an easy build. The bright colors and the white bodies readily accept stickers or Sharpie writing so decoration is easy and fun!
5. Estes Black Star Voyager Model Rocket Kit
The Estes Black Star Voyager Model Rocket Kit is for more experienced builders, but the time and skill it takes are definitely worth it. This exceptionally cool looking rocket flies over 1000 feet and is sure to impress other model rocket enthusiasts. This is a perfect longer term project for a child that’s very keen on model rocket building.
6. Estes 0651 Der Red Max Flying Model Rocket
With its fun decals and classic design, the Estes 0651 Der Red Max Flying Model Rocket Kit is a favorite model rocket build among experienced hobbyists and beginners. It’s a relatively simple build and it has a reputation as a straight, reliable flyer. It’s easy to build, and if you build it well, it flies so straight it’s like it’s riding a rod through the air. This is a very well-balanced design that can make some serious altitude with the right engine.
7. Estes Nova ARF Rocket
The Estes Nova ARF Rocket is an almost ready-to-fly rocket, perfect for the beginner. Without having to wait for the glue to set and paint to dry on an assembled rocket, kids can enjoy the exciting and educational model rocket launch experience right away. Slide the fins into the fin can and the rocket is ready-to-fly. It’s a perfect spare to have with you in case one of your other rockets is damaged in flight or landing. Also, check out the Estes 2452 Athena Flying Model Rocket Kit if you’re looking for more ready-to-fly rockets.
8. Estes 2178 Hi-Flier Flying Model Rocket Kit
The Estes 2178 Hi-Flier Flying Model Rocket Kit is a high performance, hi-flying rocket (flys up to 1600′!) that is still a simple build, easy enough for a beginner. At under $10, it offers great performance for its price point. It’s 12″ tall and an exciting addition to any model rocket collection. This rocket is built for speed and for height. It is small with a very durable fin system. It is not a difficult rocket to make and it will take you about an hour to make it—depending on glue drying time. Everything about it is designed to minimize weight without sacrificing strength so it can go fast and high.
9. Estes 2162 Big Daddy Flying Model Rocket Kit
Looking for a slightly more advanced model rocket project? The Estes 2162 Big Daddy Flying Model Rocket Kit is a Level 2 rocket: still fairly easy to build, but the end product is a very cool, fun to fly rocket. With its large size, it’s an eye-catching rocket that is more durable than other model rocket kits.
Model rocket kits are a fantastic way for young scientists to enjoy the outdoors as they fly rockets they built themselves. Share your model rocket experience with us in the comments below!
Feature image courtesy of Flickr, Matt Biddulph.
What is this, a long winded advertisement for Estes products? I like Estes rockets myself, but 9 of 9 examples are Estes rockets.
Thanks for the comment Lester. These came up as the most popular and accessible models in our research. Would love to hear your recommendations and preferred models!