Estes Doorknob Model Rocket Kit
Estes Doorknob Straight View
Doorknob Side Flame
Doorknob Up Flame View
Doorknob Recovery View
Estes 9720 Doorknob Parts

Pro Series II™ Doorknob

SKU: 009720
$49.99
Sale
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Limited-time offer: Free waterslide decals included with every Doorknob kit!

The Pro Series II™ Doorknob is a 1:5.3 scale model of the high-altitude research rockets used in the 1950s to study atmospheric radiation from nuclear testing. Originally launched to collect data nearly 50 miles above Earth, the Doorknob played a key role in early environmental science and aerospace research—making it an ideal tool for classrooms exploring real-world STEM applications.

Designed for straightforward assembly and exciting launches, the Doorknob rocket is perfect for high school rocketry programs. It includes two decal sets for customizable builds, allowing students to replicate historic markings or create their own. Inspire curiosity and connect students with the legacy of scientific discovery through hands-on learning and high-powered flight.

  • SKILL LEVEL: Advanced
  • RECOMMENDED ENGINES: F15-4, F15-6, E16-4 w/Engine Adapter (sold separately)- D12-3
  • PROJECTED ALTITUDE: 1100 ft. (335 m)

What You Need to Fly

In The Classroom

The Pro Series II™ Doorknob rocket is a powerful tool for connecting STEM learning to real-world scientific history. Based on the high-altitude research rockets used during Cold War-era nuclear testing, this 1:5.3 scale model introduces students to aerospace engineering, data collection, and the environmental science questions of the 1950s—all through hands-on assembly and high-powered launches.

Originally developed to study the effects of nuclear detonations on the upper atmosphere, the Doorknob rocket reached altitudes of up to 50 miles during its historic missions. Now, students can explore those same engineering principles with a model that’s impressive in size, engaging to build, and highly customizable thanks to included scale and sport-style decals.

Key Features for Educators:

  • 1:5.3 scale model of the Cold War-era Doorknob research rocket
  • Supports historical and scientific lessons in atmospheric data collection
  • Flies on Pro Series II™ engines for advanced altitude demonstrations
  • Includes two decal sets for historical or sport-themed customization
  • Excellent for high school STEM courses, aerospace units, or enrichment projects

Bring deeper context and excitement to your rocketry program with a model that blends flight performance with scientific legacy—the Estes Doorknob.

What You Need To Build (Not Included)

  • Scissors
  • Pencil
  • Ruler
  • Fine sandpaper
  • Epoxy
  • Carpenter's glue
  • Sanding block
  • Hobby knife
  • Masking tape
  • Primer (white)
  • Paint (black, day glow orange, white)
  • 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

F15-4, F15-6, E16-4
w/Engine Adapter : D12-3
  • Launch System

Porta-Pad E
  • Projected Max Altitude

1100 ft. (335 m)
  • Recovery System

18 in. (45.7 cm) Parachute
  • Length

26.9 in. (68.3 cm)
  • Diameter

3 in. (76 mm)
  • Weight

10 oz. (283.5 g)
  • Fin Material

Laser Cut Balsa Wood

Technical Specifications

Estes Pro Series II rocket kits are recommended for adults ages 18+ with adult supervision for those under 18, 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 10 reviews
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R
Ryan Leach (Philadelphia, PA)
Amazing kit!!

Always been a favorite scale rocket. Builds super easy, fun to fly.

J
Jonathan R (Chevy Chase, MD)
Great rocket not excellent price

I love the Estes doorknob but for not all plywood components I feel that it is a little over priced but great kit either way I love the way it looks and flies!

R
Rachel Rasmussen (Mapleton, UT)
It was RAD

This rocket was AWESOME! The Doorknob was a snap to put together and looked great. The paint job is a little tricky, and BTW you should use painters tape (because masking tape hurts more than helps) . Oh and if you are using motor adapters, do not use D12 -5s! There isn't enough juice in there to warrant 5 seconds of delay. It shot up about 200 feet, made a nerve racking nose dive, then deployed the parachute about 50 feet above the ground. Needless to say, this bad boy is pretty awesome!