My first experience was that I modified a few kits, then later went to
full-scratch. I converted a L1 rocket into a dual deploy by adding a payload
section and electronics bay. Next I modified a LOC Magnum to change the motor
mounts and add air-start wiring as well as an extended payload section. The
nice thing about modifying a kit is that you get most of what you need
component-wise, and then you can order other components, usually from the kit
manufacturer. One common thing to do is to purchase a kit with a 29mm motor
mount and then find and order the parts to upgrade the mount to 38mm. You’ll
have to modify the fins to do this so it’s a good way to start getting used to
doing the types of modifications required to do a full scratch build. I would
stay away from minimum diameter for your first scratch build as it adds a bit
of complexity to the fin attachments.
Before you know it, you’ll start getting familiar with the different sizes of
the different types of tubing. For example, 3” cardboard is not the same as 3”
phenolic or 3” fiberglass. Couplers and bulkheads and centering rings all have
to be ordered or modified if you change tubing and modifying kits is a safe way
to step into that world.
Good luck!
Allen
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Allen H. Farrington
http://www.allenfarrington.org
818-653-2284
On Jun 26, 2015, at 11:14 AM, Adrian P. Bailey <adrian@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:
Max and I are exploring the options for a project for November’s ROCstock
that we will start working on together over his summer break. Any tips on how
to get started building from scratch? We have been playing with OpenRocket
(thank you Chis and Phil) and I see that Apogee Components has a lot of parts
available.
