September 28, 2007

Estes-Cox Model Rockets

Name of Product: X-15 Flying Model Rockets

Units: About 80,000

Manufacturer: Estes-Cox Corp., of Penrose, Colo.

Hazard: The model rocket’s side or engine retainer ring can separate and cause the rocket to fall without the nose cone separating and the parachute deploying, posing a risk of an impact injury to nearby consumers.

Description: This recall involves the X-15 flying model rocket, a 1:44 scale version of the North American Aviation hypersonic rocket plane. The model rockets are about 13.5-inches long and have a wingspan of about 5 inches. The rockets are black and yellow, and have the number 66670 on the tail. The rockets were sold individually (item #1890) and as part of a starter kit (item #1412). The item number is printed on the product’s instruction sheet and above the bar code on the product’s packaging.

Sold at: Hobby stores and other retailers nationwide from June 2005 through July 2007 for between $16 and $36.

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled rockets immediately and contact Estes-Cox for instructions on receiving a replacement product.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Estes-Cox at (800) 576-5811 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. MT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.estesrockets.com/recallandsafety.php