Rigel 3
Kit# 1363
Version 2 Rainbow Hang Tag - Large Letters
Images by Gerry Fortin
Designers: Unknown
Production Years: 1981-1982
Retail Pricing Range: $7.00
Rarity: Scarce
Description: The Rigel 3 model rocket kit #1363 is a two stage exotic design and was first listed in the 1981 catalog and again in 1982. It is believed that Rigel 3 kits are only found with the Version 2 rainbow hang tag (large letters version). The facecard shows a white Rigel 3 rocket inflight and at separation point over a red, orange and yellow background. The Rigel 3 is a skill level 3 kit and could be considered a challenging build due to decorative dowels and proper anchoring. During the 1981 timeframe, the Rigel's nose cone design was unique.
Kit Contents: The Estes Rigel 3 kit contains a main body tube and booster body tube, plastic nose cone, booster and main stage engine engine mount systems, balsa die cut sheet, pattern sheet, stage coupler, three 1/8" dowels, decal sheet, two launchs lug, 18" parachute and instruction sheet.
Availability: The Rigel 3 kit is scarce in today's market and could require 6 months of patient searching on eBay for securing an example. Locating a kit with undamaged rainbow hang tag will be extremely difficult as the paper used for the rainbow hang tag is very thin and becomes brittle with age. Since this kit is not found with the black paper hang tag, collectors a left with the challenge of finding a problem free rainbow hang tag if a top quality kit is desired.
Additional information can be found at the following link;
Ye Olde Rocket Shoppe Kit Plan Link: Estes1363
Specifications: Length: 26.6", Diameter: 1.325", Weight: 2.7 oz.
Recommended 18 mm Engines: Booster Stage: A8-0, B6-0, B8-0, C6-0, Upper Stage: A8-5, B6-6, B8-7, C6-7
Single Stage: A8-3, B4-4, B6-4, B8-5, C6-5
Estes Catalog Artwork
