Rocket ground transport

[kenstarr]

After launching my Lil' Gizmo (wildman, 8" diameter, 98mm MMT) I decided I'm sick of packing heavy rockets on my shoulder or with a helper. I built a handcart! 3/4 inch emt for the tubing. The joints are from makerpipe.com. It's similar to the kayak hauler they sell a kit of parts for. Super easy to customize and build. Worked like a champ today alas the rocket landed 200' from where we parked... But still, made getting it through inspection and out to the pad a breeze!

 

[311stylie]

You had me at "not carrying an 8" rocket"

 

[cerving]

Nice! I get the idea that you want to take it to the RSO, though, but most clubs can have them come to you if you can't haul the rocket to them. For my Polecat Thumper, I just drove it out to the pad in my pickup... no way I'm gonna carry that thing.

 

[cls]

What kind of ground at your launch site for the cart to trundle over?

 

[kenstarr]

Ground is relatively flat and hard. You can drive out to the pads if necessary but you can't drive around to retrieve your rocket. Last few big rockets I've launched had quite a good walk. Figures with the cart at ready everything landed super close by . Must be one of the lesser known laws of Murphy.

 

[311stylie]

Yeah that was my thought... recovery buggy more than pre launch. After hiking a while in the heat to retrieve, carrying large rockets (and your tracking gear) by yourself sucks.

 

[lr64]

In the heat? Add a water bottle holder.