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Scratch Blue Bird Zero (Upscale) Original Design / Scratch Built

Scratch - Blue Bird Zero (Upscale) {Scratch}

Contributed by Fred Talasco

Manufacturer: Scratch
Style: Upscale
(by Fred Talasco)

(Scratch) Big Bird ZeroBrief:
A BT-60 based upscale of the classic ESTES Blue Bird Zero, designed for 24mm, D, E, and F motors.

Construction:
Parts are very basic and are available from Balsa Machine Services. Balsa cone and fins, paper BT-60 body tube and motor mount, and letramax centering rings.

Once you have the measurements, this is a straightforward build. You can download the original instructions from Jim Z'z site if you like, but it is not necessary.

Flight:
I have flown the rocket three times, Twice on an E9-6, and once on a D12-5. This rocket is just perfect for the long burning E-9 motor. The D12-5 worked well, but as the rocket hung on the launch rod, recovery was late. No damage resulted however. I have a few D21-4s, an I plan on flying them with a 18-24mm adapter this summer. See the RockSim file for recommended and non-recommended motors.

Summary:
This design is very stable, and is great for the ESTES E9, a relatively long burning motor without much 'oomph' at ignition. The only drawback is the decals, which can be custom ordered from Jim Z or Tango Papa. Otherwise, it is an interesting, yet easy entry into mid power.

(Scratch) Big Bird Zero

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