OVERALL LENGTH

MAXIMUM DIAMETER

GENERAL:

These rockets are used to enable kites to be raised easily from emergency dinghies. They are fired from a 1 in. signal pistol fitetd with a barrel extension.

DESCRIPTION:

The main rocket propellant composition is contained in the case, the nose of which is closed by a wooden plug and a layer or clay. The after end of the case houses a plaster of paris choke, which is covered by a millboard washer and a paper disc. In the rocket propellant is a conical vent which is aligned with a hole through the choke. The end of the vent nearest the choke is coated with gunpowder priming.

The rocket is fixed in a bridle having a hinged stirrup, to which is attached a 2 fr. wire cable. During flight, the cable end nearest the rocket is protected from heat by an asbestos sheath. The free end of the cable carries a loop for connection with the kite tow-line

The rocket is painted aluminum overall with manufacturing and filling information stencilled on the case in black letters.

OPERATION:

When the pistol, loaded with rocket and cartridge, is fired, the flash from the cart-ridge ignites the gunpowder priming in the rocket. The priming ignites the rocket propel-ling composition. The rocket travels upward for a distance of about 200 ft. until the kite flying line is almost paid out. The kite over retaining pins, which are attached to the kite flying line, are then withdrawn; the kite opens automatically, and the kite cover falls away. The flying line then withdraws a split pin connecting the rocket tow-line to the top of the kite, and the rocket is separated from the kite.