Ok I decided to put this in a separate topic so it didn't clutter up any of the build threads. So if you have questions about anything related to the engines used for rockets or the launch systems used this is the place to do it. I will also post photos of items as I get them for those interested.

First up engines. In the photo below are three engines. The one on the left is a mini engine. The one in the middle is a standard engine, and the one on the left is a large engine. The mini engine and the regular engine are always the same size in diameter and length. The difference in engine number is based on the amount of engine fuel and tracer smoke.

The large engine is the same size for C and D engines, but E engines are longer.

The other size engine is the Pro Series II engines which I don't have any yet. Those also vary in length between E and F sizes. I will post up photos of some when I get them.



The launch system is composed of three main parts. the launch pad, launch rod, and launch controller. The launch pad is made of a base, legs, rod clamp, and blast shield. The launch rod is exactly that, a rod used to guide the rocket off the launch pad. They come in three sizes depending on the rocket you are launching. The launch controller is a box that send an electric current to the igniter. This heats up the igniter and ignites the engine. All launch controllers usually have wires that clamp to the igniter, a safety key, armed light, and launch button.

In the picture below is my launch kit. I bought a tool case and set up the foam to hold all the parts of my launch system. I can also carry engines, wadding, igniters, and garbage bag inside the case. On the left had side is the launch controller. To the right the launch base, shield, and rod clamp. The launch pad legs are above the controller, and above that is the largest launch rod that actually screws together so I can break it down and store it.