Big Daddy Rocket
Estes Rocket
Big Daddy Rocket Kit
Rocket Launch
Flame Up
Rocket Recovery
Flight Sequence
Builder Kit
Rocket building

Big Daddy™

SKU: 002162
$39.99
Sale
Advanced

The Big Daddy Rocket Kit is a powerful, advanced-level model rocket that brings big excitement to the classroom. Standing nearly 20 inches tall with a 3-inch diameter, it’s designed for experienced student rocketeers ready to explore higher altitudes and more complex builds. Capable of reaching up to 900 feet on an E engine, it also supports lower-altitude flights with C11-3 or D engines—ideal for flexible launch conditions.

With a 24-inch parachute for reliable recovery and a striking design that commands attention on launch day, Big Daddy is perfect for STEM programs looking to deepen engagement through hands-on exploration. It’s an excellent fit for rocketry clubs, project-based learning, and advanced classroom challenges.

  • SKILL LEVEL: Advanced
  • RECOMMENDED ENGINES: C11-3, D12-3, D12-5, E12-4, E12-6
  • PROJECTED ALTITUDE: 900 ft. (274 m)

What You Need to Fly

In The Classroom

The Big Daddy Rocket Kit is a high-impact addition to any STEM curriculum, designed to engage students with advanced build techniques and powerful flight performance. With its wide 3-inch body diameter and streamlined profile, Big Daddy delivers impressive lift-offs and real-world lessons in aerodynamics, thrust, and recovery systems.

This rocket is capable of reaching up to 900 feet on Estes E engines, while still offering the flexibility to launch at lower altitudes using C11-3 or D engines—ideal for fields with space limitations. Its bold size and flight range make it perfect for group demonstrations, rocketry clubs, and advanced student projects focused on physics and engineering concepts.

Key Features for Educators:

  • Launches up to 900 feet on E engines; compatible with C11-3 and D engines for mid-power flights
  • Features a 24-inch parachute for dependable recovery
  • Advanced skill level supports lessons in structural assembly, stability, and propulsion
  • Large 3-inch diameter body for easy visibility during flight and tracking
  • Excellent for capstone projects, STEM fairs, or experienced classroom groups

Bring excitement and deeper engagement to your rocketry program with a rocket that truly lives up to its name—Big Daddy.

What You Need To Build (Not Included)

  • Scissors
  • Pencil
  • Ruler
  • Fine Sandpaper
  • Carpenter’s Glue
  • Hobby Knife
  • Masking Tape
  • Primer (White)
  • Paint (Black, Gloss Red, Gray)
  • Clear Coat (Optional)

What You Need To Launch (Not Included)

Estes-LP2-06

Live, Online Training and 1:1 Support

Estes Education has been a leader in STEM education for over 60 years. We know that STEM is a vital interdisciplinary topic that requires hands-on and inclusive learning. Explore these supporting materials to take learning to new heights!

Should you have need, you can meet with a member of Education team for FREE, 1:1 online support to learn rocketry basics, how to apply our curriculum, and discover unique teaching strategies. Our team is eager to answer your questions!

Technical Specifications

Advanced
  • Recommended Engines

C11-3, D12-3, D12-5, E12-4, E12-6
  • Launch System

Porta-Pad II
  • Projected Max Altitude

900 ft. (274 m)
  • Recovery System

24 in. (60.96 cm) Parachute
  • Length

19 in. (48.3 cm)
  • Diameter

3 in. (76 mm)
  • Weight

5.3 oz. (150.3 g)
  • Fin Material

Laser Cut Balsa Wood

Technical Specifications

This product recommended for children ages 10+ with adult supervision for those under 12, and rocketeers of all ages.

Learn About Model Rocket Safety!

Not sure how to safely launch a rocket with your group? Head over to our dedicated Safety instructions page for videos, support, and more!
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Customer Reviews

Based on 14 reviews
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(10)
29%
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M
MNclayshooter (Plymouth, MN)
Fun kit to build for a decent crack at bigger rockets - decals are brittle though

Fun build for a bigger rocket. Kind of odd proportions, like a weird cartoon... But it is cool still... there's some improvements possible to the design - ie extend the motor mount tube up closer to the nose cone, and then you could pack the chute etc in next to the tube and protect them from burn-through that's kinda common with this kit.

The decals - not enough yellow-fin cut outs, - basically you're making a one-sided rocket. And... they are brittle/delicate - out of all of the decals, I think I got only 1, maybe 2 of the large ones applied without tearing. Lots of pain in the **** to slide torn decals into position to hide the tears.

K
Kevin Boyd (Atlanta, GA)
Great Customer Service

I had a bad D12-3 in my Big Daddy on its first flight. Rocket was destroyed, Estes sent me a new Big Daddy and 2 new D12-3’s

T
Thomas Thurmond (Roswell, GA)
Great customer service.

Thanks to the customer service department for making things right. I appreciate the friendly assistance from Denise.