BAR Fleet #120 - Viking

Source: Estes Industries

Kit #: 001949

Type:  Sport Model

Stages: Single

Engine Type: 18mm
Recovery:  Streamer

Length:  30cm

Diameter:  19mm
Weight Empty:  17.3g
Nose Cone:  Tangent Ogive
Fin Type: Swept
Number of Fins: 4
Color Scheme:  Yellow, Yellow-Green

 Date Completed:  9 May, 2019

 This model came to me already built back in the mid-1990s by a friend, Bob Antion.  The original kit employs fiber fins that can be attached in any number of configurations.  The kit instructions claim 48 combinations.  This particular model was built with four fins in rearward swept orientation.

The Viking required only a small amount of refurbishing work and modification to render it in flyable condition. 

 First, the original shock cord was of inadequate length, and I bit brittle from being in storage for twenty-plus years.  It was removed and replaced with a thirty inch length of 1/8” round fiber elastic cord, attached by a three-slot manila card stock mount.

 Because I am averse to taping engines into minimum diameter rockets, I retro-fitted an engine retainer made from .020 diameter music wire.

 All that was left was to spread some thin CA around the inside front of the body tube, apply a fleet number decal, and seal coat the entire rocket with Future ‘Gloss Sauce’.

Overall, this is a very attractive looking model, and a great addition to the fleet. 

I look forward to getting this one out to the launch pad!