How to Create a Range Box for Model Rocketry

Expect the unexpected. Hobbies, like the real world, can sometimes frustrate us. Model rocketeers carry a range box - a collection of simple tools and supplies - to meet unexpected problems when they're in an isolated rocket-launch area.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Airplane Glue
• Gripping Straight Tweezers
• Masking Tape
• Superglue
• Masking Tape
• Superglue
• First Aid Kits
• Talcum Powder
• Tweezers For Jewelry Making
• Polaroid Cameras
• SLR Camera
• Camcorders
• Digital Cameras
• 14-function Pocketknives
• Tackle Boxes
• Phillips Screwdrivers
• X-Acto Knives
• Jeweler's Screwdrivers
• Locks
• Needle-nose Pliers
• Pliers
• Sandpaper
• Slotted Screwdrivers
• Tweezer-nose Pliers
• Needle-nose Pliers
• Pliers
• Sandpaper
• model rockets - Code Red, Astrocam, Shellshocked, Asteriod Hunter, X-Flyer
• jeweler’s Phillips-head screwdriver
• model rocket supplies - launch pad, single use motor, electric launch controller, recovery wadding, igniters

1. Find a container. Plastic is preferable, since metal can rust. A fishing tackle box is the ideal size.

2. Choose a lockable box if you can.

3. Clean the box if it's a used one.

4. Check your cupboards for common household items useful when you're on the range: masking tape, sandpaper or a fine emery board to shape and clean parts, and talcum powder to dust parachutes for easy opening.

5. Look for other useful everyday items: a wooden dowel for tamping down wadding, spring-type clothespins to use to support launch pad stand-offs and a flashlight.

6. Secure a collection of tools: pliers, a multifunction pocketknife, a hobby knife, tweezers, screwdrivers and nutdrivers.

7. Choose a selection of spare parts: additional motors, igniters, spare nosecones and fins and extra parachutes.

8. Pack a small, self-contained first aid kit.

9. Carry a notebook and pen in your range box. Take notes on launches. Remind yourself what you need to carry in your range box next time.

Tips & Warnings

• Harry Stine, who actually worked as a rocket scientist, and Vern Estes are considered the fathers of model rocketry. Estes Industries continues to manufacture model rocket kits, available through dealers like eHobbies.
• Join a model rocket club. Subscribe to hobby publications.
• Carry a camera or video camera when you go on the model-rocket range.
• Children need close supervision when model rockets are flying.
• Use a proper launch system. Jerry-rigging a launch pad might send a rocket astray.
• Follow the safety rules of the National Association of Rocketry.