Reddit reviews Estes Alpha III Rocket Launch Set
We found 3 Reddit comments about Estes Alpha III Rocket Launch Set. Here are the top ones, ranked by their Reddit score.
Launch controller, launch pad, and rocket assembly kit with materials and instructions Required to assemble the rocketOrange plastic nose cone, body tube, one-piece plastic tail fin unit, and self-stick decals for level E2X (Easy to Assemble) assembly skillProjected maximum altitude of 1, 100' (335M), 12" Diameter parachute for rocket recoveryRecommended for ages 10 and older with adult supervision up to age 12Requires Model rocket engine, starters, recovery wadding, and glue (all sold separately)Easy to assembleAlmost ready to flyAn Estes classicLaunch system included (Launchpad colors may vary)Flies over 1100'Easy to assembleAlmost ready to flyAn Estes classicLaunch system included (Launchpad colors may vary)Flies over 1100'
I recently turned 17 and I like aerospace and computer science so I think this question is basically made for me haha. Anyway here's a few suggestions:
That's all I can think of off the top of my head. They're all sorta educational, sorta fun if he likes that stuff. Hope that helped!
Here is a pattern you can cut out of index cardstock/heavy paper and build for no more than $1-2 in supplies at a local craft store (or which you may already have, or can borrow), plus instructions:
Mignight Express
You'll still need a launcher, and that could be a significant expense (relative to your $30 budget).
 
All told, you're probably better off getting this https://www.amazon.ca/Estes-1427-Flying-without-Engines/dp/B003CT4B0G/ which includes everything but the engine for $33 (find something for $2 to get free shipping if you don't have Amazon Prime).
I am but haven't launched anything since I was a kid. I would get a Starter Kit and a packs of A engines. A engines don't go as high so it is easier to track the rocket until you can learn it's personality. I also like to keep extra parachutes on hand and they tend to wear out kinda fast.