The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·07319·Announced 2007-09-28

Estes-Cox Recalls X-15 Model Rockets Due to Impact Injury Risk

Estes-Cox is recalling X-15 model rockets because a component can fail, causing the rocket to fall without deploying its parachute and posing an impact injury risk.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk-of-harm product where injury has been reported (one consumer struck in the arm requiring surgery), but no fatalities or widespread serious injuries are documented, fitting the 'High' severity criteria for risk-of-harm products with reported injury.

Plain-English summary

Estes-Cox Corp. is recalling approximately 80,000 X-15 Flying Model Rockets. The recall is prompted by reports that the rocket's side or engine retainer ring can separate during flight. When this occurs, the nose cone and parachute may fail to deploy, causing the rocket to fall to the ground and posing a risk of impact injury to nearby consumers.

The affected rockets are 1:44 scale versions of the North American Aviation hypersonic rocket plane, measuring about 13.5 inches in length with a 5-inch wingspan. They are black and yellow with the number 66670 on the tail. The rockets were sold individually (item #1890) and as part of a starter kit (item #1412) at hobby stores and other retailers nationwide from June 2005 through July 2007 for between $16 and $36.

Estes-Cox has received seven reports of the retainer ring separating and the nose/parachute failing to release, as well as 25 reports of the ring being lost during flight. One report indicated a consumer was struck in the arm, requiring surgery. Consumers should stop using the recalled rockets immediately and contact Estes-Cox at (800) 576-5811 or visit www.estesrockets.com for instructions on receiving a replacement product.

The recalled product

Product
X-15 Flying Model Rockets
Manufacturer
Estes-Cox Corp., of Penrose, Colo.
Category
Consumer Product — Model Rockets
Hazard
Affected units
80,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Related recalls

Same hazard · impact injury

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