Streamer recovery was one of the toughest challenges I encountered while trying to accomplish the NARTREK Bronze level. On my first flight, I almost lost the Hi-Flyer rocket. The rocket flew well, but as soon as it reached the apogee, the streamer failed to open. After a few seconds, the streamer did open but did little to slow the free-falling rocket. It is a miracle that Hi-Flyer returned to the ground in a single piece! After numerous attempts and learning something new every single time, I was able to keep the rocket in the air for more than 30 seconds. After this challenge, I learned the importance of proper technique to fold a streamer and keeping the rocket as light as possible without compromising on the wadding paper.
Build
Building Hi-Flyer was easy and quick, but it is slightly more complicated than ready-to-fly rockets. Materials needed to build: carpenter glue, plastic cement, masking tape, and sanding paper. After building the rocket, you may want to paint your rocket. Primer and paint will be needed to paint and finish the rocket. This rocket is really sturdy if built correctly.
Launch
This model rocket is small and lightweight. That is the reason that Hi-Flyer reaches great heights and is ideal for the stream recovery challenge.
Recommended engines: 1/2A6-2, A8-3, A8-5, B4-4, B6-4, B6-6, C6-5, Or C6-7
Recovery
The rocket is very thin and the streamer is ideal to fit into the body. The folding of the streamer has to be just right–too tight or too loose will hinder the streamer from opening at the apogee.
Learn to roll the streamer just the right way. Fly the rocket several times to understand what works for your rocket. Don’t give up!