Model Rocket Builders Marking Guide

This works fine, especially for smaller tube sizes. For larger and longer tubes I prefer to a piece of aluminum angle from Home Depot.

For building low-power (Estes/Quest-type) rockets, this is an indispensable tool. It allows you to quickly and accurately mark body tubes for things like launch lug placement (where you want a straight line!), fin location and alignment and even finish work such as paint stripes. I've also used it a number of times to mark much larger (up to 4 diameter) body tubes. Another trick you can take to the bank for larger rockets: Lay the fin location guide (the one that the vertical body tube is attached to in the product image here at Hobbylinc) down on a sheet of paper and mark dots around the outside for your fin pattern -- either 3 or 4 fins. For four-fin design, you can use a straight edge to connect the opposing dots to have a big 90-degree plus on a sheet of paper. Then you can stand your large body tube over it (you can look down the body tube to get an indication that the body tube is centered), and mark the body tube fin locations. THEN, you can take the marking guide itself to pencil in the lengths down the tube. Simple idea/tool, but lots of uses, and definitely worth the price!

I've been away from model rocketry for many years. It was always a challenge to get fins spaced right and straight. I've used the door frame for years. Pencil marks all over the wall and not being sure the door frame is even straight. This is an awesome tool. It is easy to use and does a bunch cool things for the rocket builder. Many who review it say it is a must for builders of custom rockets. I say yes it is a necessity for that but it is needed for ALL rocket building; kits, modifications and customs. It is a no-brainer...get one now before you start on your next rocket!