Brief:

The SLS Scorpion is Semroc's Large Scale (SLS) reproduction of the Centuri Scorpion Space Probe from 1965.

CONSTRUCTION: ( 5 out of 5)

I've only purchased a couple of rockets from Semroc, but I must tell you, I am very impressed with the quality of the kits in general and the way the kits are packaged. Packaging of the Scorpion is typical of most rocket kit manufacturers - parts in a plastic bag with paper header. But inside is where Semroc departs from the group (in a good way.) The pre-cut basswood fins are packaged in a separate zip bag, as were the nylon parachute, the engine mount parts and a bag of miscellaneous parts containing the smaller items that could easily get lost. Everything was accounted for; nothing damaged.

Parts List:

• 1 Body Tube
• 1 Body Tube
• 1 Balsa Nose Cone
• 1 Laser Cut Fins
• 1 Thrust Ring
• 1 Launch Lug
• 1 Screw Eye
• 1 Elastic Cord
• 1 Kevlar Thread
• 1 Nylon Parachute
• 1 24mm Engine Mount
• 1 Decal

Given that fact that the Scorpion is one of Semroc's SLS (Semroc Large-Scale Rocketry) line, I expected the parts to be a bit heftier than what you get in the normal model rocket kit. I was not disappointed. The main body tube was to my liking, a nice 0.05" thick and pre-slotted for the laser-cut through-the-wall fins. The nylon parachute has strong nylon shroud lines riveted to the chute at eight locations.

Instructions are top notch with clear illustrations and a very logical assembly order. The Scorpion did not need any templates since it is a basic four fins and a nose cone rocket. The exploded view in the centerfold is a nice touch complete with a Parts List and part numbers for all pieces.

The balsa nose cone is top rate, although you need to sand down the shoulder to fit the BT (something I found true of the other Semroc kits I've purchased.) The fin tabs fit nice and snug in the body tube slots and are aligned perfectly along the tube.

Finishing:

I primed the model with 2 coats of Krylon Primer and then followed up with 2 coats of color. I picked a Yellow/Orange scheme. Future floor polish was used for the final finish. The provided decal was not used.

FLIGHT/RECOVERY: ( 4 out of 5)

Semroc lists four recommended motors: C11-5, D12-5, E9-8 and F25-9. My flights were all on D12s, although I prefer the longer 7 second delay. Rocket prep is the usual: wadding, chute, etc. Since I was using the 24mm motors I needed to install the 24mm motor mount adapter which is included in the kit. The adapter contains a motor hook and so retains the 24mm motors well, but like the 29mm motors, the adapter must be friction fit into the body tube. Flights on the D12s were picture perfect - nice straight boosts and moderately quick.

The shock cord system is a combination of Kevlar thread and elastic cord. I built the kit stock, but would suggest replacing the elastic with a longer length of Kevlar.

OVERALL: ( 5 out of 5)

Semroc has produced a wonderful kit with the Scorpion. Once I visit a larger field I'll put the E8 in and she what she does!