Here’s a great way to get started in rocketry! The Tandem-X Launch Set includes two high-performance rockets, PLUS a complete launch system all in one box. Start with the Amazon, an easy-to-assemble rocket. Designed with plastic fins, a pre-colored body tube and self-stick graphics, this Beginner level rocket can be built in under an hour. Add a C-powered engine, and the 29 inch tall Amazon soars upwards of 600 feet. The Crossfire ISX is your introduction to an Intermediate level rocket with a simple balsa fin design. This rocket can be easily assembled in a few short hours. The conical nose cone, broad fins, and self-stick decals creates an exceptionally sleek rocket you’ll be proud to fly—and with a C-powered engine on board, the Crossfire ISX can reach 1,150 feet before deploying its 12 inch parachute. Both rockets take off from the sturdy Porta-Pad II launch pad by push button command from the Electron Beam launch controller. All you need to add are building supplies and Estes rocket engines. WHAT YOU NEED TO BUILD: Amazon: scissors, sandpaper, carpenters glue, hobby knife, masking tape, plastic cement; Crossfire ISX : Everything listed for the Amazon, plus: white primer, white paint, red paint. (Tools, construction and finishing supplies not included.) WHAT YOU NEED TO LAUNCH (sold separately): Estes model rocket engines, starters and recovery wadding. Four 1.5V high quality AA alkaline batteries are also required for launch controller (not included).
Blast model rockets to amazing heights with the Estes Tandem-X Launch Set. An ideal introduction to rocket building, this set contains two rocket kits: the Amazon and the Crossfire ISX. It also comes with a launch pad for easy launching, plus two plastic parachutes that ensure a gentle descent to the ground. Whether you’re a new rocketeer or a seasoned veteran of the skies, the Tandem-X is sure to deliver plenty of high-altitude thrills.
Learn the basics of crafting model rockets with the 3-foot tall Amazon and 15 inch Crossfire. View larger.
Its launch system includes a stabilizing launch pad and push-button controller. View larger.
Blast Off to Extreme Heights
With two rocket kits, the Tandem-X Launch Set offers two unique launching experiences. The aptly-named Amazon is the bigger of the two rockets: it towers at almost three feet tall and features a fearsome tiger-stripe decal. When flown with a standard Estes engine, the Amazon can soar to heights of 600 feet.
The Crossfire is a smaller craft, standing just a little over 15 inches tall. In spite of its size, this little rocket can blast off to seriously impressive altitudes. Thanks to its aerodynamic fins and nose cone, the Crossfire can reach cloud-bursting heights of 1,150 feet. Both rockets are outfitted with colorful, preassembled parachutes, which ensure they can float gently back to Earth for another flight.
An Introduction to Rocket Building
The Tandem-X Launch offers just the right amount of challenge for novice rocket builders. The Amazon is an E2X (easy-to-assemble) rocket, and requires no paint or special tools for assembly. It can be built in less than an hour: simply glue the plastic fins to the tube, install the engine, and attach the parachute. Finish the rocket off with a few self-stick decals, and you’re ready to launch.
Once builders have mastered the basics, they can move on to the more advanced Skill Level 1 Crossfire. With its plastic nose cone and laser-cut balsa fins, the Crossfire requires a little more finesse. Assembling the rocket can take an entire afternoon, but it’s a rewarding and educational process. Builders will learn several beginner-level rocket techniques, such as painting and sanding. Estes has also included an illustrated, step-by-step instruction guide to help keep the assembly fun, smooth, and frustration-free.
Educational Fun
In addition to the thrills it provides, the Tandem-X also has significant educational value. The set transforms kids into amateur rocket scientists, encouraging them to think about how the rockets work. Rocket building teaches kids the basics of propulsion, flight, and aerodynamics, and can help foster an early interest in science and engineering. Even failed launches can turn into a learning experience.
Requires an Estes Engine
Both rockets require a specialized Estes engine to launch. For the Amazon, Estes recommends a B4-2 engine for your first flight. The rocket is also compatible with other Estes engines, including the B4-4, B6-2, B6-4, C6-3, and C6-5. For the Crossfire, Estes recommends the A8-3 for first flight, and the B4-4, B6-4, C6-5, and C6-7 for more advanced launching.
What’s in the Box
Estes 1469 Tandem-X Launch Set with Amazon rocket kit, Crossfire ISX rocket kit, two plastic parachutes, launch pad, and push-button launch controller.
BUILD and launch your own high-flying model rocket! There’s no thrill quite like launching a model rocket, watching it streak skyward, reach peak altitude, and then return gently to earth. When you build them, the thrill is even better. Thanks to Estes model rocketry, kids can explore the wondrous world of science while experimenting with different combinations of rockets, engines and accessories to better understand how rockets reach outer space.
SKILL LEVEL: The Amazon is an easy-to-assemble Beginner level rocket with pre-colored parts. The Crossfire ISX is an Intermediate level rocket which will help a budding rocketeer develop some basic model building and finishing skills.
RECOMMENDED ENGINES (not included): Amazon: B4-2, B4-4, B6-2, B6-4, C6-3, C6-5; Crossfire ISX: A8-3, B4-4, B6-4, C6-5, C6-7
PROJECTED ALTITUDE: Amazon: 600 ft. (183 m) on a C6-5; Crossfire ISX: 1150 ft. (350 m) on a C6-5
ESTIMATED ASSEMBLY TIME: Amazon 1 hour (glue drying time not included); Crossfire ISX 1-3 hours (painting and glue drying time not included)
LAUNCH SYSTEM: INCLUDES Porta-Pad II launch pad with a 1/8 inch launch rod and Electron Beam launch controller
AGES: For boys and girls ages 10+ with adult supervision for those under 12, and rocketeers of all ages.
