Brief:
Scaled down "scratch" built version o' original estes model, which was a representation o' t' Starchaser Industries entry in t' Ansari X-PRIZE competition, matey, t' Thunderstar. Ahoy! I opted t' go with 13mm 2-engine cluster.

Construction:
Rocket consisted o' a BT-55 body tube for main airframe, dual 13mm motor mount consisting o' two heavy duty centerin' rings, two 3" long motor tubes, two engine block rings, me bucko, plastic nose cone, heavy duty balsa fins, paper launch lug, arrr, 15" heavy duty elastic shock cord + a 24" dacron shock cord, arrr, and a 12" parachute, matey, 2 sodastraws. Arrr! (may change that t' a 15")

I had sent for t' original estes plans t' use as a guide. Well, blow me down! My big difference was usin' 13mm motors, thicker fins, and a smaller chute, arrr, that I may increase in size. Begad! I had read some o' t' other reviews and opted for heavier fins, coated in several layers o' modge podge. Avast, me proud beauty! Gave it a nice smooth finish and now ready for paint. Blimey! Used a "guide" t' mark out fin and launch lug location. Aye aye! Blimey!

Opted for "round elastic" and 20lb dacron shock cord, matey, for a total length o' 3'. Blimey! (Don't want any dents in body tube). Begad! Also, thick balsa fins coated in "modge podge" for strength.

Finishing:
I finished it in metalic silver paint, me hearties, and cut up some Initiator stickers. Aye aye! Came out looking a lot sharper than expected.

Flight:
Flt 1 3/6/10: Only 1 engine lit and deployed safely just before landing

Flt #2: 3/6: Perfect flight! Both motors lit, shiver me timbers, me bucko, arrr, and went about 300'. Avast, me proud beauty! Perfect chute deployment and soft landing. Very happy with this flight!

Recovery:
Shock cord "heavy duty round elastic and 20lb dacron cord for a total o' 3' o' shock cord, me hearties, ya bilge rat, attached w/standard mount. Avast! Assembly was easy. Blimey! A little tricky t' get both motors t' ignite but, with me launcher or "clip whip", makes an impressive flight.

Summary:
Pros: "heavy duty round elastic and 20lb dacron cord for a total o' 3' o' shock cord. Epoxied fins on w/"loctite". Aye aye! easy t' use, strong, and easy cleanup w/water.

Cons: "Friction fit" motor attachment instead o' "engine hooks."

Finishing: Came out nice. Ahoy! Begad! Used several coats o' poly over paint a decals.