I recently received an A. R. V. Condor as a gift from my wife. The A. R. V. Condor is an Estes Explorer series rocket (Intermediate level).  

This kit was packaged in plastic and came in a box and was probably around $15. 99. All the parts were included and none were damaged.   The instructions were typical Estes and were excellent. The special feature of this rocket is at apogee two gliders fall off and spiral to the ground. The kit contains a plastic streamer for the main body section and balsa fins, plastic nose cones and body tube sections for the two gliders, along with all the other standard Estes hardware.

The rocket is a little over 15 inches in length and rather bulky with the gliders hanging off it. Maximum C engine power with the package mount.  

Following the instructions your first challenge is to assemble the gliders, what a treat. Four hands for this process would be helpful.   Gluing the balsa wing parts at the proper angle using the balsa cutouts provided was quite a balancing feat. I have no killer suggestions at this point except PATIENCE and after you get the first one setup the second one goes easier. It is important to have accurate line transfers from the paper jig provided in the instructions to the glider body sections or you will have problems later fitting the gliders onto the main section.   I then test glided each of the gliders and noticed they were nose heavy.   I then put some modeling clay (provided with the kit) in the rear of the gliders to lift the nose and hopefully improve performance.

The main body section is fairly simple with a traditional engine mount.   The glider mounts require a sharp knife and patience to cut them into the proper sections. Test fit the glider mounts before you glue them on, I had some excess on the top mount halves, but cut off too much.   I now have a gap between the two top halves. It kind of spoils the look. Be sure to follow the instructions for lining up the glider mounts other wise you will have take off problems.

Estes included a rubber shock cord with this rocket and standard Estes paper mount.

I rate construction of this rocket a 4, pull your hair out challenging to build, but satisfaction when you're finished.  

I was in a hurry to launch so I didn't even primer the rocket.   When I got the the launch site I also realized I was in such a hurry I forgot the launch lugs. Luckily Chris another member of SPAAR NAR Section 503 had some extra launch lug and CA. (Thanks Chris. )  I used a B6-4 because I wanted to see the whole process of ejection and gliders. It's good to be at a club launch or have friends around since there are three pieces to find. All three pieces landed rather close together. My glider angles were tight and steep. My glider angles were tight and steep. More weight in the rear of the gliders? Chris suggested smearing some clay on the left wing tips, sorry Chris that made it worse.

I rate flight a 4.   Once I get the trim right it will be a 5.

I recently finished painting and applied the decals to the Condor and it is a beautiful bird. Overall I rate this kit a 4.