Phenolic vs Fiberglass Body Tubes: Which Is Better?
Compare phenolic vs fiberglass model rocket body tubes by weight, strength, cost, durability, and motor class, so you pick the right tube for your build.
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3D Printed Rocket Parts: What Works & What Doesn’t
Complete guide to 3D printed model rocket parts: best filaments (PLA vs PETG vs ABS), printable parts, weight comparison, file sources, and when 3D printing makes sense.
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Cardboard vs Fiberglass Body Tubes: Which to Use?
Your body tube material choice affects weight, strength, and how many flights you’ll get before something cracks. Cardboard and fiberglass are the two main options, and they’re pretty different animals. Here’s what matters: weight, strength, durability, cost, and when each material makes sense. By the end, you’ll know which tube fits your build. Quick Comparison…
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Balsa vs Basswood Rocket Fins: Which Performs Better?
Introduction Balsa and basswood are the two most common woods for model rocket fins, but they’re different enough that picking the wrong one can cost you flights. Balsa is lighter and easier to cut, which is why it shows up in most beginner kits. Basswood is stronger and more durable, better for rockets that see…
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Parachute Fabric Comparison: Nylon vs Poly vs Ripstop
Introduction Your parachute fabric choice affects descent rate, durability, and how well the parachute packs into your rocket. Nylon, polyethylene, and ripstop are the three main options, and they’re different enough that the wrong pick can mean a cracked rocket on landing. Nylon works for most builds. Polyethylene is ultralight but tears easily. Ripstop is…
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Polyethylene vs Nylon Parachute: Recovery Compared
Polyethylene and nylon are the two most common parachute materials for model rockets, and they behave very differently in the air and on the ground. Polyethylene is lighter and packs smaller, which matters for small rockets where every gram counts. Nylon is stronger and lasts longer, but it weighs more and takes up more space…
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Shock Cord Guide: Length & Materials
Introduction Your shock cord is the unsung hero of model rocket recovery. It’s the critical link between your nose cone and body tube, absorbing the ejection charge’s force and slowing the descent of your recovery device. Get it wrong, and you’ll suffer zipper tears, separated components, or lost rockets. This guide covers everything you need…
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Fin Alignment Guide: Perfect Fins Every Time
Introduction Crooked fins ruin rocket flight. They cause spin, instability, and unpredictable flight paths. But perfectly aligned fins are easier to achieve than you think. This guide covers everything you need to know about fin alignment, from printable templates to professional alignment jigs. Whether you’re building your first rocket or a competition winner, these techniques…
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Body Tube Size Chart: Standard Dimensions
Introduction Choosing the right body tube is one of the most fundamental decisions in model rocket design. The wrong size can limit your motor options, affect stability, or prevent compatible components from fitting. This comprehensive guide covers all standard model rocket body tube sizes, their dimensions, compatible components, and material options. Whether you’re building from…
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Parachute Calculator: Size, Descent Rate & Recovery
Introduction The wrong parachute size can ruin your rocket’s recovery. Too small, and your rocket slams into the ground. Too large, and it drifts for minutes, potentially landing in trees or far from the launch field. This calculator and guide will help you determine the perfect parachute size for your specific rocket, motor, and flying…
