Mars Snooper II

Kit# 1220

Version 2 Green Skill Level Hang Tag

Version 1 Green Skill Level Facecard

  

Images by Gerry Fortin

Designer: Gene Street

Production Years: 1975-1976 (Estimated)

Retail Pricing Range: $3.95-$5.00

Rarity: Scarce

Description: Estes release the redesigned #1220 Mars Snooper II with green skill level facecard and green hang tag packaging. Since the redesign Mars Snooper II was sold from 1975 through 1980, collectors will find the kit with three different packaging styles. It is believe that during 1975 and 1976, the kit was offered with Version 2 green skill level hang tag and Version 1 facecard. During the 1977 through 1979 timeframe, the hang tag was changed to the Version 3 skill level design. Finally, during 1980, the hang tag was shifted to the black paper design.

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 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.

This kit configuration is consider scarce.

The kit features 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.

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 (22.3 in), Weight (2.3 oz), Diameter (0.976 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

 

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