Cesaroni 29mm Reloadable Propellant Kits

Cesaroni (also known as CTI) is a manufacture of reloadable rocket motors, know as the Pro-X motors. The "X" is replaced by the engine diameter, so you can have Pro-29, Pro-38, etc.

These motors are made in the standard diameters, so they will fit into your current fleet of rockets without having to do any further modifications.

Start By Choosing Your 29mm Motor Type:

 

29mm Reload Accessories


Questions Regarding Back-Ordered Items?

I apologize for the inconvenience of any item that is on back-order status. We are working extra hard to make sure all items are in stock, because I know the disruption and hardship it causes great customers like you. Please accept my apology.

If you have a question about any item that is on back-order status, or if you desire an email notification to inform you when the item is available, please send us an email. We will be happy to help you out, or suggest alternatives.


Which Size Motor/Casing? Propellant Types HAZMAT Fees FAQs Related Products

Cesaroni Pro-29 Propellant Kits
For use in Cesaroni 29mm Casings - "1-Grain" Configuration

YOU MUST BE AT LEAST 18 YEARS OLD TO PURCHASE THESE RELOAD KITS.

Note: These motors are shipped with a HAZMAT fee of $25 (to learn more, click here).
These motors are non-returnable due to shipping regulations.

These propellant kits fit in the 1-grain case, P/N 71010
Type P/N Flame Color Burn Time Total Impulse N-s Length (mm) Max Thrust (N) Initial Mass (g) Prop. Mass (g) Place Order Now
F29 71215 I-max 1.90 55 98 36.0 105.8 30.9
$18.62†

18+
Sorry,
Back-ordered
(12/28/11)
F36 71213 Blue Streak 1.42 51 98 36.4 101.0 25.6
$18.62†

18+
Sorry,
Back-ordered
(12/23/11)
F36 71212 Smoky Sam 1.07 41 98 72.7 104.0 29.5
$18.62†

18+
Sorry,
Back-ordered
(01/26/12)
F59 71214 White Thunder .96 57 98 70.9 99.0 26.1
$18.62†

18+
F120 71219 Vmax 0.45 56.0 98 143.6 106.2 25.3
$18.62†

18+ | L1*

Sorry... We do NOT ship rocket engines outside the USA.
Please be aware that typical shipping transit times for motors are 1-2 weeks.

1. The ejection-charge delay times for all Cesaroni motors are adjustable using the Pro-DAT tool. You will need the ProDAT 29/38 tool (click here for more information), so please order one for your range box.

2. Propellant Type descriptions are listed below on this page. Click here to jump down now.

3. These motors can also be used in longer casings (2 or 3-grain) if you add into it the Pro29 Spacers

4. Engine data files for RockSim can be found by using the import motor feature (see the tutorial video for detailed instructions)

5. L1* - Certain motors, in particular "Skidmark" and motors containing high amounts of propellant, require Level 1 certification before purchase and cannot be used for Level 1 attempts.  The National Association of Rocketry (NAR) and Tripoli Rocketry Association (TRA) classify motors that use the "Skidmark" propellant as presenting an extra hazard because the sparks can cause grass fires.  Please email, fax or mail us a copy of your NAR or TRA membership card showing your current high power certification level. See the FAQ's below for additional details on certification.


Cesaroni Pro-29 Propellant Kits
For use in Cesaroni 29mm Casings - "2-Grain" Configuration

YOU MUST BE AT LEAST 18 YEARS OLD TO PURCHASE THESE RELOAD KITS.

Note: These motors are shipped with a HAZMAT fee of $25 (to learn more, click here).
These motors are non-returnable due to shipping regulations.

These propellant kits fit in the 2-grain case, P/N 71011
Type P/N Flame Color Burn Time Total Impulse N-s Length (mm) Max Thrust (N) Initial Mass (g) Prop. Mass (g) Place Order Now
G57 71221 Classic 1.89 108 142 85.4 146.0 51.4
$20.69†

18+
G80 71227 Skidmark 1.15 93 142 112.2 143.2 50.0
$21.72†

18+ | L1*
G83 71223 Blue Streak 1.29 107 142 99.0 145.0 51.1
$20.69†

18+ | L1*
G88 71222 Smoky Sam .96 84 142 123.6 152 59.0
$20.69†

18+ | L1*
Sorry,
Back-ordered
(01/03/12)
G126 71224 White Thunder .93 116 142 167.4 145.0 52.1
$20.69†

18+ | L1*
G250 71229 Vmax 0.45 110.0 142 288.3 141.3 50.6
$20.69†

18+ | L1*
G68 71228 White 1.61 107.8 142 94.1 155.9 59.9
$18.62†

18+
Sorry,
Back-ordered
(01/24/12)

Sorry... We do NOT ship rocket engines outside the USA.
Please be aware that typical shipping transit times for motors are 1-2 weeks.

1. The ejection-charge delay times for all Cesaroni motors are adjustable using the Pro-DAT tool. You will need the ProDAT 29/38 tool (click here for more information), so please order one for your range box.

2. Propellant Type descriptions are listed below on this page. Click here to jump down now.

3. These motors can also be used in longer casings (3 or 4-grain) if you add into it the Pro29 Spacers

4. Engine data files for RockSim can be found by using the import motor feature (see the tutorial video for detailed instructions)

5. L1* - Certain motors, in particular "Skidmark" and motors containing high amounts of propellant, require Level 1 certification before purchase and cannot be used for Level 1 attempts.  The National Association of Rocketry (NAR) and Tripoli Rocketry Association (TRA) classify motors that use the "Skidmark" propellant as presenting an extra hazard because the sparks can cause grass fires.  Please email, fax or mail us a copy of your NAR or TRA membership card showing your current high power certification level. See the FAQ's below for additional details on certification.


Cesaroni Pro-29 Propellant Kits
For use in Cesaroni 29mm Casings - "3-Grain" Configuration

YOU MUST BE AT LEAST 18 YEARS OLD TO PURCHASE THESE RELOAD KITS.

Note: These motors are shipped with a HAZMAT fee of $25 (to learn more, click here).
These motors are non-returnable due to shipping regulations.

These propellant kits fit in the 3-grain case, P/N 71012
Type P/N Flame Color Burn Time Total Impulse N-s Length (mm) Max Thrust (N) Initial Mass (g) Prop. Mass (g) Place Order Now
G54 71238 Red Lightning 1.89 108 187 119.2 198.2 86.5
$22.76†

18+
G106 71237 Skidmark 1.31 138 187 128.7 187.0 75.0
$24.83†

18+ | L1*
G118 71239 Blue Streak 1.35 159 187 157.3 188.0 76.7
$22.76†

18+ | L1*
G125 71236 Red Lightning 1.27 159 187 171.8 194.5 81.9
$22.76†

18+ | L1*
G131 71232 Smoky Sam .96 125 187 182.6 200.0 88.6
$22.76†

18+ | L1*
H87 71235 Imax 1.94 168 187 139.2 205.0 92.7
$22.76†

18+ | L1
H90 71231 Classic 1.82 164.2 187 154.1 163.0 77.1
$22.76†

18+ | L1
H133 71233 Blue Streak 1.23 163 187 191.1 190.0 76.7
$22.76†

18+ | L1
H163 71234 White Thunder 1.02 159 187 216.9 187.0 78.2
$22.76†

18+ | L1
H410 71281 Vmax 0.41 167.7 187 522.8 182.5 75.9
$22.76†

18+ | L1
H54 71230 White 3.12 167.7 187 105.0 209.0 96.6
$22.76†

18+ | L1
Sorry,
Back-ordered
(12/5/11)

Sorry... We do NOT ship rocket engines outside the USA.
Please be aware that typical shipping transit times for motors are 1-2 weeks.

1. The ejection-charge delay times for all Cesaroni motors are adjustable using the Pro-DAT tool. You will need the ProDAT 29/38 tool (click here for more information), so please order one for your range box.

2. Propellant Type descriptions are listed below on this page. Click here to jump down now.

3. These motors can also be used in longer casings (4 or 5-grain) if you add into it the Pro29 Spacers

4. Engine data files for RockSim can be found by using the import motor feature (see the tutorial video for detailed instructions)

5. L1 - "H" size motors are classified as high power motors. If you have not already achieved high power certification through the NAR or TRA, you are only permitted to purchase one "H" motor per order (which you intend to use in your qualification flight). If you are already high power certified, please email, fax or mail us a copy of your NAR or TRA membership card showing your current high power certification level. Once we have your level, you are permitted to order as many "H" and "I" motors that you want. See the FAQ's below for additional details on certification.

6. L1* - Certain motors, in particular "Skidmark" and motors containing high amounts of propellant, require Level 1 certification before purchase and cannot be used for Level 1 attempts.  The National Association of Rocketry (NAR) and Tripoli Rocketry Association (TRA) classify motors that use the "Skidmark" propellant as presenting an extra hazard because the sparks can cause grass fires.  Please email, fax or mail us a copy of your NAR or TRA membership card showing your current high power certification level. See the FAQ's below for additional details on certification.


Cesaroni Pro-29 Propellant Kits
For use in Cesaroni 29mm Casings - "4-Grain" Configuration

YOU MUST BE AT LEAST 18 YEARS OLD TO PURCHASE THESE RELOAD KITS.

Note: These motors are shipped with a HAZMAT fee of $25 (to learn more, click here).
These motors are non-returnable due to shipping regulations.

These propellant kits fit in the 4-grain case, P/N 71013
Type P/N Flame Color Burn Time Total Impulse N-s Length (mm) Max Thrust (N) Initial Mass (g) Prop. Mass (g) Place Order Now
H118 71241 Classic 1.83 216 231 191.3 232.0 102.8
$26.90†

18+ | L1
H123 71247 Skidmark 1.44 176 231 176.5 228.0 100.0
$28.97†

18+ | L1*
H151 71246 Red Lightning 1.38 207 231 214.8 238.0 109.2
$26.90†

18+ | L1
H170 71243 Blue Streak 1.27 217 231 217.1 232.0 102.3
$26.90†

18+ | L1
H175 71242 Smoky Sam .95 166 231 221.6 247.0 118.1
$26.90†

18+ | L1
H255 71244 White Thunder .90 229 231 363.0 232.0 104.3
$26.90†

18+ | L1
H135 71248 White 1.60 216.7 231 171.8 251.2 119.8
$26.90†

18+ | L1

Sorry... We do NOT ship rocket engines outside the USA.
Please be aware that typical shipping transit times for motors are 1-2 weeks.

1. The ejection-charge delay times for all Cesaroni motors are adjustable using the Pro-DAT tool. You will need the ProDAT 29/38 tool (click here for more information), so please order one for your range box.

2. Propellant Type descriptions are listed below on this page. Click here to jump down now.

3. These motors can also be used in longer casings (5 or 6-grain) if you add into it the Pro29 Spacers

4. Engine data files for RockSim can be found by using the import motor feature (see the tutorial video for detailed instructions)

5. L1 - "H" size motors are classified as high power motors. If you have not already achieved high power certification through the NAR or TRA, you are only permitted to purchase one "H" motor per order (which you intend to use in your qualification flight). If you are already high power certified, please email, fax or mail us a copy of your NAR or TRA membership card showing your current high power certification level. Once we have your level, you are permitted to order as many "H" and "I" motors that you want. See the FAQ's below for additional details on certification.

6. L1* - Certain motors, in particular "Skidmark" and motors containing high amounts of propellant, require Level 1 certification before purchase and cannot be used for Level 1 attempts.  The National Association of Rocketry (NAR) and Tripoli Rocketry Association (TRA) classify motors that use the "Skidmark" propellant as presenting an extra hazard because the sparks can cause grass fires.  Please email, fax or mail us a copy of your NAR or TRA membership card showing your current high power certification level. See the FAQ's below for additional details on certification.


Cesaroni Pro-29 Propellant Kits
For use in Cesaroni 29mm Casings - "5-Grain" Configuration

YOU MUST BE AT LEAST 18 YEARS OLD TO PURCHASE THESE RELOAD KITS.

Note: These motors are shipped with a HAZMAT fee of $25 (to learn more, click here).
These motors are non-returnable due to shipping regulations.

These propellant kits fit in the 5-grain case, P/N 71014
Type P/N Flame Color Burn Time Total Impulse N-s Length (mm) Max Thrust (N) Initial Mass (g) Prop. Mass (g) Place Order Now
H140 71251 Classic 1.89 268 276 247.8 277 128.5
$31.04†

18+ | L1
H160* 71257 Skidmark 1.40 220 276 191.9 272 125.0
$33.11†

18+ | L1*
H194 71256 Red Lightning 1.34 260 276 292.0 284 136.4
$31.04†

18+ | L1
H200 71253 Blue Streak 1.29 261 276 303.2 274 127.9
$31.04†

18+ | L1
H237 71252 Smoky Sam .88 206 276 295.9 294 147.6
$31.04†

18+ | L1

Sorry... We do NOT ship rocket engines outside the USA.
Please be aware that typical shipping transit times for motors are 1-2 weeks.

1. The ejection-charge delay times for all Cesaroni motors are adjustable using the Pro-DAT tool. You will need the ProDAT 29/38 tool (click here for more information), so please order one for your range box.

2. Propellant Type descriptions are listed below on this page. Click here to jump down now.

3. These motors can also be used in longer casings (6 or 6XL-grain) if you add into it the Pro29 Spacers

4. Engine data files for RockSim can be found by using the import motor feature (see the tutorial video for detailed instructions)

5. L1 - "H" size motors are classified as high power motors. If you have not already achieved high power certification through the NAR or TRA, you are only permitted to purchase one "H" motor per order (which you intend to use in your qualification flight). If you are already high power certified, please email, fax or mail us a copy of your NAR or TRA membership card showing your current high power certification level. Once we have your level, you are permitted to order as many "H" and "I" motors that you want. See the FAQ's below for additional details on certification.

6. L1* - Certain motors, in particular "Skidmark" and motors containing high amounts of propellant, require Level 1 certification before purchase and cannot be used for Level 1 attempts.  The National Association of Rocketry (NAR) and Tripoli Rocketry Association (TRA) classify motors that use the "Skidmark" propellant as presenting an extra hazard because the sparks can cause grass fires.  Please email, fax or mail us a copy of your NAR or TRA membership card showing your current high power certification level. See the FAQ's below for additional details on certification.


Cesaroni Pro-29 Propellant Kits
For use in Cesaroni 29mm Casings - "6-Grain" Configuration

YOU MUST BE AT LEAST 18 YEARS OLD TO PURCHASE THESE RELOAD KITS.

Note: These motors are shipped with a HAZMAT fee of $25 (to learn more, click here).
These motors are non-returnable due to shipping regulations.

These propellant kits fit in the 6-grain case, P/N 71015
Type P/N Flame Color Burn Time Total Impulse N-s Length (mm) Max Thrust (N) Initial Mass (g) Prop. Mass (g) Place Order Now
H159 71268 Green 1.88 298 320 199.7 342.8 176.6
$36.21†

18+ | L1
H160 71261 Classic 1.93 312 320 334.8 319 154.2
$36.21†

18+ | L1
H180* 71267 Skidmark 1.44 258 320 266.1 314 150
$38.28†

18+ | L1*
H233 71266 Red Lightning 1.33 311 320 354.7 327.6 163.7
$36.21†

18+ | L1
H255 71263 Blue Streak 1.24 315 320 411.1 318 153.4
$36.21†

18+ | L1
H295 71262 Smoky Sam 0.85 253 320 359.5 342 177.1
$36.21†

18+ | L1
H399 71264 White Thunder 0.71 282 320 545.8 294 132.6
$36.21†

18+ | L1
I204 71265 Imax 1.70 348 320 356.8 349 185.4
$42.42†

18+ | L1

Sorry... We do NOT ship rocket engines outside the USA.
Please be aware that typical shipping transit times for motors are 1-2 weeks.

1. The ejection-charge delay times for all Cesaroni motors are adjustable using the Pro-DAT tool. You will need the ProDAT 29/38 tool (click here for more information), so please order one for your range box.

2. Propellant Type descriptions are listed below on this page. Click here to jump down now.

3. These motors can also be used in longer casings (6XL-grain) if you add into it the Pro29 Spacers

4. Engine data files for RockSim can be found by using the import motor feature (see the tutorial video for detailed instructions)

5. L1 - "H" size motors are classified as high power motors. If you have not already achieved high power certification through the NAR or TRA, you are only permitted to purchase one "H" motor per order (which you intend to use in your qualification flight). If you are already high power certified, please email, fax or mail us a copy of your NAR or TRA membership card showing your current high power certification level. Once we have your level, you are permitted to order as many "H" and "I" motors that you want. See the FAQ's below for additional details on certification.

6. L1* - Certain motors, in particular "Skidmark" and motors containing high amounts of propellant, require Level 1 certification before purchase and cannot be used for Level 1 attempts.  The National Association of Rocketry (NAR) and Tripoli Rocketry Association (TRA) classify motors that use the "Skidmark" propellant as presenting an extra hazard because the sparks can cause grass fires.  Please email, fax or mail us a copy of your NAR or TRA membership card showing your current high power certification level. See the FAQ's below for additional details on certification.


Cesaroni Pro-29 Propellant Kits
For use in Cesaroni 29mm Casings - "6XL-Grain" Configuration

YOU MUST BE AT LEAST 18 YEARS OLD TO PURCHASE THESE RELOAD KITS.

Note: These motors are shipped with a HAZMAT fee of $25 (to learn more, click here).
These motors are non-returnable due to shipping regulations.

These propellant kits fit in the 6-grain case, P/N 71016
Type P/N Flame Color Burn Time Total Impulse N-s Length (mm) Max Thrust (N) Initial Mass (g) Prop. Mass (g) Place Order Now
H226* 71277 Skidmark 1.35 305 365 362.3 360 175
$41.39†

18+ | L1*
H340 71272 Smoky Sam 0.84 287 365 447.5 391 206
$39.32†

18+ | L1
I224 71271 Classic 1.70 381 365 454.4 370 182.5
$39.32†

18+ | L1*
I243 71278 White 1.57 381.7 365 445.8 398.6 212.1
$39.32†

18+ | L1

Sorry... We do NOT ship rocket engines outside the USA.
Please be aware that typical shipping transit times for motors are 1-2 weeks.

1. The ejection-charge delay times for all Cesaroni motors are adjustable using the Pro-DAT tool. You will need the ProDAT 29/38 tool (click here for more information), so please order one for your range box.

2. Propellant Type descriptions are listed below on this page. Click here to jump down now.

3. Engine data files for RockSim can be found by using the import motor feature (see the tutorial video for detailed instructions)

5. L1 - "H" size motors are classified as high power motors. If you have not already achieved high power certification through the NAR or TRA, you are only permitted to purchase one "H" motor per order (which you intend to use in your qualification flight). If you are already high power certified, please email, fax or mail us a copy of your NAR or TRA membership card showing your current high power certification level. Once we have your level, you are permitted to order as many "H" and "I" motors that you want. See the FAQ's below for additional details on certification.

6. L1* - Certain motors, in particular "Skidmark" and motors containing high amounts of propellant, require Level 1 certification before purchase and cannot be used for Level 1 attempts.  The National Association of Rocketry (NAR) and Tripoli Rocketry Association (TRA) classify motors that use the "Skidmark" propellant as presenting an extra hazard because the sparks can cause grass fires.  Please email, fax or mail us a copy of your NAR or TRA membership card showing your current high power certification level. See the FAQ's below for additional details on certification.


Accessories For Cesaroni 29mm Casings

Pro-38 Delay Adjustment Tool

38mm Pro-DAT image
29mm Adapter Ring for 38mm PRO-DAT 71115 $2.06 This adapter allows you to drill the delays of the 29mm motors using the 38mm PR0-DAT shown above.
29mm PRO-DAT adapter ring

Do You Need A Different Diameter Reloadable Motor Casing?

Step 1: Pick the diameter of the engine. Clicking on the links will take you to more information about each diameter motor so you can select the correct casing. 

Step 2: Pick the Cesaroni Propellant kit that you want to fly in your rocket. To be honest, this is the most time-consuming step. Contact us if you need help. We'll direct you to the RockSim software that we use to help pick the right rocket engines for your vehicle. Technical Publication #28 gives you a step-by-step procedure for picking the motors that might work in your rocket.

Step 3: Match the propellant kit that you just selected in step 2 to the appropriate Cesaroni Case.

CTI Pro-X rocket motors

The aluminum reloadable casing is also called the "reload hardware." Why not let Apogee Components be your hardware store?

Cesaroni Propellant Types

Click the links for a video of the motor.

Blue Streak: Blue flame, thin gray smoke.
White Thunder: Bright white flame, light gray smoke. Most realistic looking propellant.
Smoky Sam: Dense black smoke that obscures the flame.
Red Lightning: Red flame, white smoke.
Green: Green flame
Skidmark: Intense orange flame, thick black smoke with sparks (called a "Sparky" motor).
Imax: Initial greenish flame that turns orange before burnout.
Classic: Narrow orange flame, thin, light gray smoke.
White: Bright white flame.
Vmax: Wide orange flame, very quick thrust.


Cesaroni Propellant Types
Why HazMat Shipping Fees?

Even though they are not classified as explosives, G80 motors currently require shipment through a certified hazmat carrier (such as FedEx-Ground, or UPS-Ground). This is because the motors contain more than 30-grams of propellant.

Both carriers require the motors be marked as hazmat, and because of that, they charge a $25 per box hazmat fee. Unfortunately, we cannot do anything about this, even if you order just one single motor. Sorry, but the the per box fee is the same.

Because of this, it makes sense to order as many large motors as possible to leverage the Hazmat fee. You may ask your friends in your club if they would want to go in with you on your order to minimize the effect of the Hazmat fee.

The good news is that FedEx-Ground and UPS-Ground are quicker shipping boxes to you than is the government. And it is far easier to track it trough the system from our dock to your front porch.

When you order these motors, you will be charged one Hazmat fee per box. If additional HazMat fees are required, you will be contacted by our staff. If you have any questions, you are welcome to call us at: 719-535-9335.

NOTE: We cannot ship HAZMAT outside of the United States, to Hawaii, Alaska, or any US Protectorate.

Also, there MUST be someone 18 years of age or older at the time of delivery to sign for the package. If there's a chance you won't be home, have it delivered to your place of work.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How do I adjust the ejection charge delay on the Cesaroni motors?

A. You need a special drill tool, called the "Pro-DAT" that allows you to put a hole into the delay grain that makes the coasting time shorter. One delay tool can be used on all 24mm, 29mm and 38mm motors. Click Here for more information.
Pro-DAT tool

Q. Do I need to be high-power certified to buy these motors?

A. For certain motors you do need to be high-power certified to buy the propellant kits (generally H size and larger).
 

Q. Where do I go to get High Power Certified so I can buy the propellant kits?

A. In the United States, there are two organizations that can certify you to fly high power motors. They are the National Association of Rocketry, and Tripoli Rocketry Association. If you are outside of the USA, please click here.

Q. How come the 6-grain "G" size motors are classified as high-power? I thought that "H" motors were the beginning of high-power motors.

A. In the United States, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has designated that any rocket motor that has an average thrust level greater than 80-Newtons is considered "high-power." The only 6-grain motor in the table above that does not fall into this range is the G65-8, so technically, you don't have to be HPR certified to buy the G65-8. However... The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has regulated that motors containing more than 62.5 grams of propellant cannot be sold to anyone under the age of 18 (for more information, visit the NAR's web site -- click here). What this means is that you first have to fly an H-motor and get certified, and then you can purchase the smaller 24mm diameter G motors except the G65-8. Aren't regulations wonderful?

Q. How do I remove the ejection charge on the Cesaroni motors?

A. This is the answer from Cesaroni: "The plastic white cap on the top of the motor is just tacked in place with some ABS glue (yellow). Just use a screwdriver or awl to remove it and then tap the powder out. No need to close it off again. But if you want to prevent any flashback from the delay through the touch-hole the user can just put a drop of epoxy in it or tape it." Note (legal disclaimer): Apogee Components is not responsible for the performance of the motors nor any modifications you may make to them.

Q. How come the Cesaroni motors are non-refundable?

A. We would love to be able to say the motors are returnable and refundable, but the motors must be shipped as HAZMAT. It is possible to return them to us, but you do have to go through the training classes from the DOT (U.S. Department of Transportation) in order to qualify as a shipper of hazardous materials. Unfortunately, it isn't likely that you'll be able to take them to UPS or FedEx and have them accept the package from you unless you've completed the classes for Hazmat items. Therefore, please make sure that the motors you order will be correct for your project. Additionally, don't buy the motors for someone else and expect to ship them yourself (such as shipping internationally).

Q. Is it simple to use a reloadable motor?

A. Like anything in rocketry, there is a learning curve. There is a proper sequence of assembly steps, each with a verification step (to check for quality control). If you follow these steps (for both assembly and disassembly) with proper cleaning, you will find that it is fairly easy to assemble a reloadable rocket engine. Watch the video on this web page and judge for yourself if it is easy or not. We think you'll find that it is straight-forward if you follow the instructions.

Q. It is safe and reliable?

A. Yes, if you use them as prescribed by the detailed instructions.

Reloadable rocket motors are designed to be rugged and safe. If you assemble them incorrectly, they are designed to spit out the aft closure (where the nozzle is held in place). Once this happens, the pressure inside the motor is released, and most times the propellant will completely stop burning.

Q. When should I switch from single-use motors and use the reloadable variety?

A. As soon as you are sure you won't stop flying rockets (we all know how addictive they are). The metal case, into which you insert the propellant grains, takes a commitment to purchase because of the initial expense. You must look at it as an investment that pays for itself over time (like the RockSim software), because of the reduced cost per flight for the reload propellant grains.

Q. When should I avoid using a reloadable motor?

A. Reloadable motors are not for everyone. If you're under 18 years old, you may not use them.

There are also some situations where it is advisable to use a single-use motor, like the Apogee Medalist or Econojet motors. The biggest reason to use a single-use motor is in a rocket where there is a higher than average chance that the rocket will be lost after the flight. For example, launching the high-flying Apogee Aspire kit, which can easily go over 1 mile high and become a tiny speck in the sky, is a good place to use a single-use motor. This is the major reason why we at Apogee Components, do not sell the 18mm reload casing; there is just too high of a chance of losing the rocket on each flight.

Other "not-recommended" situations are when the launch area is surrounded by thick forests and/or lots of water. If you lose the rocket, you've lost the expensive metal reload casing.

You might not want to use a reloadable motor in contests, where you want to keep the rocket light. Typically, a single-use motor will be lighter in weight, and should allow the rocket to fly higher and stay in the air longer.

Finally, if you are in a time-crunch, such as working on a school project where you have to fly the same rocket multiple time in a single day, you might want to avoid a reloadable motor. The reason is that it can take a significant amount of time to clean and reload the casing after each flight. The weather may change quickly on you during those periods of prepping for flight. Also, when you are stressed for time, you are more apt to make an assembly mistake that could cause you to crash the rocket.

Q. Will reloadable motors work and will they even fit into my "built" kits that I already own?

A. Yes. For more information on the case sizes and how they are designed to fit into your existing kits, please see the FAQ's on the casings page.

Q. How do you select the right reload motor to use?

A. You select a reload motor based on the rocket you intend to fly and it's mission objective. This is exactly the same way you'd choose a single-use motor.

Start by using the RockSim software. Create or load-in your rocket design, then try out various motors until you find the right one that will keep the rocket safe and will meet the mission objectives. I highly recommend reading Technical Publication #28, which describes the procedure for selecting motors.

Q. Can I make my own metal cases?

A. Not recommended. Each reloadable case is precision engineered and manufactured to exact specifications using high-grade aerospace materials. They are made this way to be safe and reliable. Why? Because, if they should fail because of improper assembly, they need to burst open in a pre-designed manner that won't cause harm to spectators. Safety is everything in model rocketry!

Q. Is the rocket fuel (propellant grains) interchangeable between motor casings?

A. No. Each type of propellant grain is made to be loaded in a specific metal case. The reason is that the grains are different geometries (some have holes, some have slots) and are different sizes. They each burn differently which affect how much thrust they create. Additionally, the grains must be matched to the correct rocket nozzle so they create the proper amount of pressure inside the metal case. Too much pressure and the case will burst the aft bulkhead. Too little pressure and the motor will not make enough thrust to lift the rocket safely into the air. In other words, there is no such thing as a "generic" reload case.

Q. Can I make my own reload propellant (such as black-powder) and put it into the metal reload casing?

A. No. Black powder is classified as an explosive. The metal reload case is not designed to hold explosives like black powder. It will burst open in an uncontrolled manner. This is highly dangerous!

Q. Can I reload a single-use motor with the reloadable propellant grains?

A. No. During the "burn," the inside of a single-use case is severely charred and eaten away. The nozzle also erodes and changes shape. Should you try to reload the case, it will burst open and could cause you harm. This is why the NAR safety code prohibits modelers from doing this dangerous activity.

Q. Why don't you ship rocket motors to countries outside the USA?

A. There are too many shipping regulations. We're a small company, and we don't have the manpower to track the regulations for each country in the world. So to keep our prices as low as possible, we only ship motors to USA customers.

Q. Can you ship motors to me by this weekend?

A. All rocket motors must be shipped by surface transportation (truck). While we ship the motors usually the same day the order comes in, you should plan extra time for the postal service to deliver them via third class mail (Parcel Post).

Frequently Asked Questions about Related Products

Q. Which launch controller is recommended for the First Fire Jr.™ and Copperhead™ Igniters?

A. We offer two different controllers that can be used for these igniters. The Aerotech Interlock and the Pratt Hobbies GO-BOX Controller.
Interlock Launch Controller Estes e-launch controller

Q. Which igniters should I buy for these larger propellant motors?

A. Get the First Fire Jr.™ igniters. Click Here for more information.
First Fire Jr. Igniters

Q. What kind of hook should I use to hold the 24mm reloadable engines in my rocket?

A. Aero Pack Engine Retainers. These are useful on rockets that use the 24mm diameter reloadable motors. And yes, they can be installed on existing rocket kits.
Engine Retainers

Q. How do you stage composite propellant motors?

A. You need some extra equipment in the rocket. We call them staging electronics.

Related Items and Optional Accessories That Go Great With These Motors:
Aero Pack Tailcone Engine Retainers

Want to hold in your rocket engines securely and reduce drag at the same time? Then the Aero Pack Tailcone retention system is you're looking for. They currently come in sizes for 38mm and 54mm engines fitting body tubes with approximately 3" and 3.9" I.D.

Tailcone Engine Retainers
Aero Pack Engine Retainers

Want to hold in your rocket engines securely without using tape or other unsightly methods? Then they Aero Pack retention system may be what you're looking for. There is a retainer available for all the common high power tube sizes that we carry (LOC, Blue Tube, and Fiberglass), as well as for the mid and high-power rocket kits on this web site.

Engine Retainers

Motor Mount Adapters

These adapters allow you to put a smaller diameter motor into a rocket that has a motor mount tube up to two sizes larger. This is a great way to save money by putting a smaller motor in a big rocket.

Motor Adapter
High Power Nose Cones

These are high power nose cones that fit both the LOC kraft-paper tubes, as well as the Blue Tubes. The tubes are made out of Polypropylene plastic or fiberglass, which makes them very durable so they'll take the abuse of any high power motor you care to put behind them.

High Power Nose Cones

Rouse-Tech High Power Monster Motors

We've added all the big reloadable motor casings to our line-up. Plus, we've organized things to make it easier for you to pick and find the right casing for your big project.

Rouse-Tech Monster Motors

Cesaroni Motor MSDS
Cesaroni Igniter MSDS

Actual Customer Comment:
 "Just purchased several rocket components, again, and I love the service.  I spoke to Michelle and she was great. I will order again!  Customer service is just as important as the product. You supply both. Thank you." -- Matthew G. Gregory