Brief:
This is a sport scale rocket that features PML's new Quantum tube. This rocket makes a good choice for the mid power to high power transition.

Construction:
This rocket has one section of PML Quantum Tube, with no payload section. There are 2 centering rings made of sturdy plywood, and 3 G10 fins. There is a plastic nosecone, but the only hardware included is the D ring used in the piston. When both straps are tied together, the shockcord is about 12 feet long.

The instructions on this kit are TOP NOTCH, as are all of PML's. The instructions guide the builder step by step with pictures and detailed descriptions. No templates were included, or needed with this kit because of the pre-slotted tube. This rocket goes together just like any other high power kit.

All of the parts fit together perfectly, which made it very sturdy. I added 2 part foam to the fincan along with the internal fillets to make this more sturdy. Two part foam can be bought at most hobby stores. Stick with the PML or Northeast Hobby Products foam.

Finishing:
Finishing this bird was an ease. The QT eliminates all need for filling tube spirals, so a quick sand with 400 grit sand paper and it was ready to paint. A couple coats of primer, then went over that with red automotive paint. Masked off the fin and the top and painted red again. The reason I painted the red again after I masked off the areas is if any paint runs through it will not mess up the paint job, and the red coat seals the tape down. i then went ahead with the brown and white and painting was complete. The only decal not included for this was the white stripes that go up and down the sides. Call an automotive or sign shop to get in touch with some of this. After that, a clear coat was put on and the bird looked awesome.

Construction Rating: 5 out of 5

Flight:
Well, PML reccomends every motor from about a F50 up to the J570. I have currently flown this bird twice, both on G64-7's. These flights were both atraight as an arrow to about 1200', and the 7 delay is perfect. The piston ejection system eliminated the need for wadding, therefore preperation went much quicker. For motor retention I used 4-40 blind nuts in the aft centering ring, and a pair of screen clips to hold in the casing.

Recovery:
This rocket has the piston system, which consists of a bottom piston strap, the piston, and the top piston strap. I replaced my bottom piston strap with Kevalr for strength. This rocket comes down FAST. I have never seen a rocket fall faster, but as long as you are dropping it on turf or a field you'll be alright. If near cement, get a bigger chute. The first flight suffered no damage, but the second flight inflicted minor paint cracking and chipping in the fin area. This was because the rocket was spinning on it's axis during descent.

Flight Rating: 4 out of 5

Summary:
This was a great rocket to build and fly. It is easy to assemble, and is a great performer in the sky.

Pros-

• Easy Construction - The wonderful step by step instructions that PML provides makes construction a snap for all skill levels
• Quality Materials - The new Quantum Tube and G10 fins make this rocket a nearly indestructible craft that will survive longer than any paper/wood rocket.
• Piston - This wonderful idea eliminates wadding, while not having to sorry about clogging up a baffle
• High Quality Parachute - The PML parachute is a 6-panel parachute with a spill hole in the middle. These parachutes were ranked #1 in a recent survey.

Cons -

• Quantum Tube - This is tough stuff, don't get me wrong, but the disadvantages of QT outweigh the advantages. The first and foremost reason I dislike this material is because epoxy does not like to stick to it. I have popped more fillets with QT that any other material. This tube also expands and shrinks in different temperatures causing the paint to crack, and pistons to stick
• Piston - This is a con because if your body tube isn't properly cleaned, or if the body tube shrinks the piston will stick or jam. This will result in a lawn dart at the least, but probably a destroyed fin can and ejected motor.
• Shock Cord - The bottom piston strap on this rocket should be protected in some way whether it is with a Kevlar® sheath, or be totally replaced with a Kevlar® shock cord.

Overall Rating: 4 out of 5