Model rockets have been popular among children and adults since they were first invented in the 1950s. They act upon similar concepts and forces of the rockets you see NASA fly, but are much simpler and more accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. Many attribute scientists’ interests in their career field to using model rockets as a child. Many factors should be considered when choosing your first model rocket as a beginner.
The best model rockets for beginners should be:
- Easy to build
- Easy to transport
- Durable
- Manageable in power (engine size)
This article gives you our recommendations for the best beginner rockets and how you should go about choosing your first one. Building model rockets is a fun and interactive activity that lets you work with your hands and learn a thing or two about the cool science behind it all. After reading, you’ll be ready to try model rocket building yourself!
If you’re buying a rocket kit, it’s going to come with a standard controller unit to control your launches.
And if you’ve ever used these before, you know how plain and boring they are. It doesn’t give you that “oomph” that the launch sequence should.
We just built our own beautiful launch controllers that make launches SO much more fun, and we documented EVERY single step and item purchased and put it into a step-by-step course that teaches you how to do the exact same thing.
Click here to learn more about how you can build your own launch controllers!
Best Model Rockets
We’ve selected our favorite beginner rockets based on their ease of use and the introductory skill level required to successfully launch the rocket. Estes is the market leader in model rockets and provides a wide array of beginner model rocket options for consumers. We’ve chosen the best Estes model rockets that will be easy and fun to use.
Model rockets are divided into “Skill Levels” to guide different levels of builders on their purchases. It is recommended that all beginning rocketeers use “Skill Level 1” rockets or lower for their ease of use and simplicity. Users can progress in skill level once they have conquered the beginning levels.
The following rockets are either Easy to Assemble (E2X), requiring little assembly and plastic cement, or Skill Level 1, requiring sanding, gluing, painting, and extra time to assemble.
Estes Alpha (1225)
The Alpha (link to read reviews on Amazon) is a classic beginner rocket in their product line for its ease of use and simple design. Millions of people have used this as their first rocket for decades. This rocket is fairly easy to build with straight forward directions. It uses traditional balsa wood and cardboard, making it lightweight and high performance. After building, sanding, and painting the rocket, you’ll be ready to take it outside and fly! This is a great rocket if you are interested in building a traditional model rocket that requires full construction.
What We Like
- Ready to fly after an afternoon of building and painting
- Simple parachute recovery system for safe landing
- Can fly up to 1,000 feet with a C-engine, making It a high performer
What We Don’t
- Easy to lose sight of rocket with high altitude therefore needing more open space for landing
- Doesn’t come with launch pad or control, need to purchase separately for use
U.S. Army Patriot (2056)
Based on the U.S. Army M-104 air missile, this scale rocket (link to read reviews on Amazon) is a Skill Level 1, making it great for beginners and those looking for traditional model rocket assembly. Requiring gluing, sanding, and painting, this rocket will take a couple hours to fully construct and launch. It can fly up to 600 feet in the air with standard Estes engines and comes with decals that replicate the real air missile.
What We Like
- Cool design and easy assembly make this rocket attractive to users of all ages
- Easy to follow instructions for successful build
- Excellent for those looking to grow model rocket building skills
What We Don’t
- Painting small and precise areas can be the most challenging part of assembly (speaking of paint, see our article on Best Paints for Model Rockets)
- Requires additional purchases for necessary launch, recovery system, and engine
Estes Alpha III (1256)
The Alpha III (link to read reviews on Amazon) was the first rocket in Estes beginner series, built for its easy assembly and clean design. With a one-fin unit, it is ready to fly in a much shorter period of time than traditional rockets. This is definitely the rocket for you if you are looking for fast assembly and more instant gratification. Soaring up to 1,150 feet at peak altitude, this is a high performing rocket that has been enjoyed by users worldwide.
What We Like
- Only requires household supplies and glue to assemble rocket
- Sleek black and orange design makes it easier to see after launch
- Easier for younger users to build and get excited about rockets
What We Don’t
- Not the best option for traditional model rocket building as it does not require the same skills
Bandito (803)
An Easy to Assemble (E2X) rocket, the Bandito (link to read reviews on Amazon) is classified as a mini rocket. It can fly over 600 feet, making it easier to keep track of its green and yellow body after takeoff. This is a great rocket for beginners that requires little to no assembly and is ready to fly in less than an hour. This rocket is recommended for users over 10 years old and those under 12 should be supervised by an adult. Most children can build this rocket with little to no assistance.
What We Like
- E2X series rocket makes it incredibly easy to use and assemble: great for young users and those looking for simplicity
- Great bonding tool for adults and children: many users really enjoy building this with their child or young people in their life
What We Don’t
- Not the best rocket for learning traditional rocket building skills as there is limited assembly
- Doesn’t fly as high as larger rockets in the beginner category
Estes Tandem-X Flying Model Rocket Launch Set
Our final recommendation is different from the other offerings in that it includes launch materials in addition to the rocket. This set comes with two rockets, giving you a great introduction to rocket building with an Easy to Assemble (E2X) rocket and a novice challenge with a Skill Level 1. The Tandem-X (link to read reviews on Amazon) is great for beginners and requires less additional purchases than simply buying individual rockets.
What We Like
- Comes with a launch pad that can be used for all your future rockets
- Provides easy assembly rocket and a more challenging novice rocket to build your model rocket skills for two unique experiences
- Great economic value for two rockets and launch pad set compared to individual purchase
What We Don’t
- While it comes with launch pad, an engine, wadding, and tools are not included
How to Choose Your First Model Rocket
There are many considerations to make when choosing your first model rocket. The goal of building a model rocket is to not only learn how to master the hobby, but successfully launch it. Rockets vary in level of difficulty as well as performance, making your decision important for success.
The best model rockets should be:
- Easy to use
- Durable
- Portable
- Powerful, but not too powerful
Let’s dive deeper into these categories so you know what you should be looking for in your first model rocket!
Ease of Use
Rockets have many components, varying in size and complexity for different functions and capabilities. For a beginner, it is best to work with a rocket that has the least complexity so you can learn how to use model rockets and build your way up to more difficult units.
Many model rocket manufacturers recommend sticking with Ready to Fly or Skill Level 1 for beginners. Model rockets are classified into different levels of difficulty to help users select one based on their experience level.
Model rocket skill levels:
- Ready to Fly (RTF) /Almost Ready to Fly (ARF): Very simple assembly with little to no painting required. They use simple glue and generally more plastic than traditional models.
- Skill Level 1: Easy to build, fly, and great for beginners and novices. They require very little assembly and simple decorating. They do not take more than a couple hours to assemble but be sure to use a glue that will dry fast enough for same-day use.
- Skill Level 2: Some experience is required for successful Level 2 model rocket building. They have more complex fins and challenging assembly.
- Skill Level 3: For advanced modelers, these models use complex materials, larger engines, and various types of adhesives.
- Skill Level 4: Designated for “experts,” these rockets are recommended for adults. They require detailed modeling skills, complex construction, and advanced power.
There are many RTF/ARF and Skill Level 1 rockets to choose from. This article recommends our favorites for beginners to successfully fly their model rocket.
Skill Level Decisions
There is great variability not only between levels, but within them. Skill Level 1 rockets vary greatly in capabilities, power, size, construction, and ease of use. Choosing the best model rocket for your needs is a good rule of thumb. Not all rockets within the same level will be suited for a particular person’s skill set. The different rockets will also create for different experiences.
In choosing a particular model within a level, note these things:
- Age: Is the rocket for a child or adult? Children may have shorter attention spans for more complex projects and lose interest.
- Dexterity: Some rockets require precise construction with small parts, while others are easier to manipulate.
- Intention: Are you looking to build a rocket in less than an hour and fly? Or do you want a more advanced assembly that takes more time and effort?
For young children, starting with a RTF/ARF rocket kit may be better. There is little assembly required (depending on the kit) and it may be easier for younger children to build and enjoy. This starting point can always be built upon with more complex rockets that require additional assembly and construction.
Older children and adults are better suited for Skill Level 1 rockets (although RTF rockets are fun for any age). These require more skill in building through measurements and different adhesive applications. They may require sanding and painting, which requires more specific motor skills and instruction. These rockets are a good starting point for working your way up to more complex and powerful rockets in higher power levels!
Durability
Model rockets are made of lightweight materials for successful flying. This makes them very durable considering the elements they endure, but they are still somewhat fragile materials. Materials do not need to be heavy-duty or overly strong to handle winds or force during flight. Most model rockets are made of wood, cardboard, and plastics. Metals are avoided for smaller models and are typically only used in rare situations that require extreme strength.
Lightweight materials are used for successful flight as well as safety. Rocket manufacturers specifically make their materials durable for continued use. For smaller and beginner model rockets, materials such as balsa wood (strong and light) and cardboard (strong for body) allow for greater flight capabilities and are designed to lose durability in dangerous situations.
While these rockets will withstand strong forces of wind, they are designed to crumple on extreme impact with other objects. If a malfunction occurs during launch or recovery, it will cause less damage to objects and humans. The rocket will take the brunt of the impact opposed to injuring or damaging. Rockets that land at a fairly high speed after recovery are still often undamaged.
Ease of Transport
Model rockets, especially the smaller ones used for novice to intermediate users are incredibly lightweight. This makes them very easy to transport. They typically weigh only a few pounds (with the engine included), while the rocket itself only weighs a couple ounces. This makes them very easy to transport from build to launch site.
Ease of transport may only be slightly difficult if you are moving many rockets to a launch site and want to protect them. Many rocketeers use racks or storage boxes/containers to keep them separated from one another and safe from potential damage. Your rockets should be safe, but users take extra precautions.
Engine Sizes
Different engine sizes will provide varying levels of power and therefore altitude capabilities. Using the proper engine is important as to not damage or lose the rocket and to maintain safety standards. You want a strong enough engine for the launch to be exciting, but not too powerful that you may lose the rocket at too high of altitudes. Losing sight of the rocket will make recovery much more difficult and increase the chances of wind carrying it far beyond your launch area.
Choosing the smallest engine recommendation will decrease chances of loss. Using an engine that is not recommended will not ensure successful flight. Rocket engines are one-time use. Start with a smaller engine and work your way up as you become more familiar with your rocket’s capabilities.
Model rocket engines sizes are classified using a letter system to define the power capabilities of a specific engine. Lower letters are the lowest in power and ascend as the letter does.
Engine sizes:
- A – D: Considered low power and anyone can buy them
- E – G: Mid power engines, many requiring certification to buy and use (anyone can buy E engines)
- H – O: High power rocket engines that require certification to use
It is recommended that beginners do not use engines more powerful than “C” to ensure safety and easy return of rocket.
With increasing power, some rocket engines require certification for use. Some F and G engines and all higher require certification as they are deemed “high power.” This can include two-stage motors (two motors are used to keep rocket powered) and engines used for much larger rockets. These powerful rockets are not designed for beginners as they are easily lost in sight and can cause more damage if misfired. Being an experienced rocketeer is required for these bigger and more powerful engines.
Additional Model Rocket Considerations
Now that you know what to look for in your first rocket and have your eyes on a certain one we’ve recommended, there are additional things to consider and note to ensure a fun and safe experience.
Safety
Flying model rockets is a safe activity given that you follow safety precautions and adhere to guidelines. Rockets are actually much safer and have fewer accidents and injuries than flying model airplanes.
The National Association of Rocketry (NAR) has established a set of guidelines to follow for safe rocket use.
The safety code states important information and rules to keep you and others safe during flight:
- Materials: Must be lightweight and non-metal
- Motors: Must be certified and commercially made with no changing or tampering
- Launch: Must be launched using an electronic system, warn and countdown others before launch, test stability before flight, stand at least 15 feet away for D engines or smaller, must use a rod or rail to ensure upward flight.
- Size: must weigh less than 53 ounces at liftoff and cannot exceed 320 Newton seconds
- Conditions: Must use in clear and safe weather and space conditions
- Recovery System: Must be used to return rocket safely without damage and do not try to recover rocket if it lands in dangerous places
These are the major guidelines that should be followed to ensure a safe flight. These are good to review before every launch to keep them fresh in your mind. Another important safety note is to make sure you carefully follow construction instructions and properly load/reload the body of the rocket with recovery materials and new engines.
Price
Building model rockets is fairly inexpensive once you have the proper tools and materials. With one time purchases of launch sets and rockets, the main costs are buying new engines, wadding, and glue. These are not very expensive and are dependent on the rate at which you build new rockets.
One-use engines are typically less than $2 per engine depending on their power and size. This is not incredibly expensive compared to other hobbies! Manufacturers produce engines that work specifically for their rockets.
The rockets themselves, especially smaller ones, are usually less than $20 per rocket and most are half of that. Price is something to consider before entering the hobby as you want to be aware of the costs associated with parts that need replacement.
Size
You would naturally think that larger rockets are more powerful and difficult to use, and in a lot of cases you would be right. But for lower level rockets, the larger rockets can actually be much easier to build and use.
Larger rockets generally mean larger parts, making construction much simpler. Tiny rockets use small parts that are difficult to manipulate and require much more detail. This can be challenging for those not familiar with building rockets or smaller children.
Small rockets appeal to many rocketeers because they can fly very high. The smaller size makes them more lightweight and aerodynamic, leading to higher maximum altitudes.
If you are looking for parts that are easier to work with, try a larger model rocket. You can decrease in size and increase in power as you become more familiar with building model rockets and successfully launching your first one!
How Does a Model Rocket Work?
Model rockets are made of lightweight materials and use small engines to launch themselves into the sky. While they travel nowhere as high as large rockets, model rockets are a great hobby for all ages and progress in difficultly as you become more advanced.
There is a fair amount of science involved in model rockets and their ability to fly so we’ve simplified how they work to introduce you to the topic. This includes what the rocket is made of and how it is able to make its way from the ground to the sky and back down safely.
Rocket Make Up
A model rocket consists of a tube (usually made of cardboard), fins for stability, and a nosecone to make the rocket aerodynamic. The tube holds the engine and recovery system necessary for power as well as safely landing the rocket. Fins are typically made of balsa wood or plastic and aid in the stability of the rocket’s upward direction. Nosecones are at the tip of the rocket to provide increased speed and precision through the air. These are removable and release during recovery to slow descent speed.
Here’s what is inside the tube of the rocket:
- Engine: A solid propellant (fuel and oxygen) that burns and gives the rocket power
- Recovery System: Usually a parachute that brings the rocket safely back to Earth (also seen in streamer form – see our article on Model Rocket Streamer vs. Parachute: When to Use and When to Avoid)
- Ejection Charge: A delay system that initiates recovery system after maximum altitude is achieved (allows rocket to safely prepare for landing at the proper time)
- Wadding: Toilet paper-like material that protects the recovery system from the heat of the burning engine (acts as a buffer between hot materials and areas that can melt; using the wrong material here can be dangerous so make sure to use traditional wadding or see our guide on Model Rocket Wadding Alternatives: Pre-Made and DIY Options)
These are the major components of the rocket, allowing it to launch, reach maximum altitude, and recovery safely for continued use. The rocket parts are usually made of lightweight materials, such as cardboards, plastics, and balsa wood. The engines are commercially made, making them easy to use as well as safe.
Flight Path
It is important to know what to expect from your model rocket, especially to ensure it is operating correctly.
There are a couple key steps in the model rocket process you can expect:
- Launch: A model rocket will take off from a launch pad, which is connected to an electrical charge to initiate take off. The model rocket will be held by a rail or rod for stability and to ensure upward launch.
- Powered Ascent: The burning of the engine allows the rocket to propel into the sky and move at high speeds through aerodynamics.
- Coasting: Thrust from the engine is gone and the rocket is still able to ascend but at a slower pace. During this period, a “delay charge” is set into action, which gives a 2-8 second delay for the ejection charge to release.
- Descent: The ejection charge initiates the recovery system being deployed, which is usually a parachute or streamer system.
- Recovery: After the parachute is released, the rocket should slowly make its way back to Earth safely for repeated use.
Knowing the flight path will allow you to realize quickly if steps are missed or a certain part of the path does not occur. Most accidents or problems occur during the launch or recovery phase.
Final Recommendation
After reading this, you should have a solid base of knowledge about model rockets and what you should consider before buying one. Beginner rockets are easy to assemble, easy to transport, durable, and are not too powerful for new users. All of the recommendations we offer will provide you with a successful launch given instructions and safety precautions are followed. If you want to build your model rocket skills, we recommend the Alpha rocket. It is easy to use but also challenging enough for beginners to really participate and develop their skills.
Flying model rockets is a fun and safe activity that users of all ages can participate in. It is exciting and educational all at once, making it appealing to people with all sorts of interests! While having fun, it is important to follow the safety code to ensure a safe experience as well. Get out there and start building!
Build Your Own Launch Controller
Don’t forget! You can ditch the stock controllers and confidently build your own from scratch using our step-by-step instructions and exact materials list! We promise this will make your launch experience 10x better, and using our course License to Launch you can be 100% confident you’ll be able to finish this project and be super proud of what you’ve built! Here’s a sneak peek below.
