Mars Snooper II
Kit# 1220
Black Paper Hang Tag
Version 1 Green Skill Level Facecard
Images from eBay
Designer: Gene Street
Black Hang Tag Production Year: Estimated During 1980
Retail Pricing Range: $6.75 (1980)
Rarity: Rare
Description: This is the Estes release of redesigned Kit #1220 Mars Snooper II. The redesigned kit can be located with Version 1 green skill level facecards paired with Version 2 and 3 skill level hang tag or the black paper hang tag packaging (above). The kit is numbered with only #1220 marking. The most obvious design changes for Mars Snooper II as compared to the K-20 Mars Snooper include touch down pads vs. the historical wing pods, lowering the position of upper level fins and redesign of color scheme.
Comparison of Mars Snooper (K20/1220) and Mars Snooper II (1220) Facecards
Estes advertised the Mars Snooper and Mars Snooper II as having a futuristic appearance of a real spaceship and was a "Fascinating Design" for demonstration launches.
Kit Contents: The kit contains two body tubes, seven balsa nose cones of various sizes, two balsa sheets for fins, a balsa adapter, large and small adaptor set, stage coupler, engine mount, launch lug, 18" parachute and instructions.
Availability: This Mars Snooper II kit configuration with black paper hang tag is consider to be rare and will take considerable searching to locate. It is more difficult to locate than those with skill level hang tags but currently does not command a special premium. Mars Snooper II kits are typically priced between $90 to $130 while the original Mars Snooper kits will bring $250 to $450 depending on earlier vintage packaging.
Additional information can be found at the following links;
JimZ Kit Plan Link: Estes 1220
Essense Model Rocket Reviews: 4X Upscale of Mars Snooper II
Specifications: Length (21.7 in), Weight (2.2 oz), Diameter (0.95 in)
Recommended 18 mm Engines: A8-3, B6-4, C6-5
Even an A8-3 engine could be considered under powered for a model of this size and weight.
Estes Catalog Artwork