--- product_id: 1365822 title: "Estes 1948 Big Bertha Rocket-Building Kit, Intermediate Flying-Rocket-Model Kit for Ages 10+" brand: "estes" price: "A$56" currency: AUD in_stock: true category: "Estes" url: https://www.desertcart.com.au/products/1365822-estes-1948-big-bertha-rocket-building-kit-intermediate-flying-rocket store_origin: AU region: Australia --- # 500 ft max altitude 18-inch recovery parachute Laser-cut balsa fins Estes 1948 Big Bertha Rocket-Building Kit, Intermediate Flying-Rocket-Model Kit for Ages 10+ **Brand:** estes **Price:** A$56 **Availability:** ✅ In Stock ## Summary > 🚀 Launch your legacy with Big Bertha — where classic meets sky-high thrills! ## Quick Answers - **What is this?** Estes 1948 Big Bertha Rocket-Building Kit, Intermediate Flying-Rocket-Model Kit for Ages 10+ by estes - **How much does it cost?** A$56 with free shipping - **Is it available?** Yes, in stock and ready to ship - **Where can I buy it?** [www.desertcart.com.au](https://www.desertcart.com.au/products/1365822-estes-1948-big-bertha-rocket-building-kit-intermediate-flying-rocket) ## Best For - estes enthusiasts ## Why This Product - Trusted estes brand quality - Free international shipping included - Worldwide delivery with tracking - 15-day hassle-free returns ## Key Features - • **Soars up to 500 feet 🚀:** Experience breathtaking launches that reach sky-high altitudes, perfect for thrill-seekers and STEM enthusiasts alike. - • **Precision laser-cut balsa fins 🪵:** Crafted for aerodynamic stability and sleek design, ensuring your rocket flies true every time. - • **Iconic 18-inch parachute recovery 🪂:** Watch your rocket gracefully descend, combining excitement with safe, reusable fun. - • **Classic design with modern performance 🎨:** A timeless model rocket that blends vintage style with cutting-edge materials for a standout launch experience. - • **Intermediate build for hands-on STEM learning 🔧:** Engage in a rewarding 1-hour assembly that sharpens skills in physics, aerodynamics, and engineering. ## Overview The Estes 1948 Big Bertha Rocket-Building Kit is an intermediate-level model rocket designed for ages 10 and up, delivering an authentic STEM experience. Featuring a durable body tube, laser-cut balsa fins, and an 18-inch parachute, it soars up to 500 feet using standard Estes engines (sold separately). With about an hour of assembly time, this classic rocket combines hands-on learning with thrilling launches, making it a must-have for aspiring rocketeers and hobbyists. ## Description Product Description The Estes Big Bertha Model Rocket Kit was one of Estes' first big builds and continues to deliver a powerful a hands-on educational experience. Designed for a slow, realistic liftoff using standard Estes engines (sold separately), this model travels to 500 ft. and comes back to Earth with its 18-inch parachute. This intermediate-level kit lets builders explore physics, aerodynamics, and propulsion through authentic model construction.Designed with size and flair, the 1948 Big Bertha rocket kit is a perfect companion for an afternoon of building enjoyment. It requires about an hour of assembly time (not including glue and paint drying time) and comes with Estes body tubes, laser-cut wood fins, a molded plastic nose cone, and easy-to-apply waterslide decals.To build and launch this rocket, you will need scissors, a pencil, a ruler, fine sandpaper, carpenter’s glue, a hobby knife, masking tape, primer (white), paint (black and yellow), an Estes Porta-Pad II Launch Pad, an Electron Beam Launch Controller, compatible Estes model-rocket engines, Starters, Recovery Wadding, and 4 AA batteries (sold separately). Always follow the NAR (National Association of Rocketry) model-rocket safety code during operation.Estes rocket kits are built from the highest-quality components and designed around the unforgettable experience of pressing “launch.” Our hobby and STEM educational products range across all skill levels, interests, and power levels. Unleash the space dreamer and science enthusiast in you with an Estes model rocket! From the Manufacturer Big Bertha is an Estes original. Big, burly, black and beautiful perfectly describes this classic. She’s an all around Estes favorite that has truly withstood the test of time. Over the decades, Big Bertha has been most modelers’ first big build. While standing on its massive fins, this big black rocket checks in at an impressive 2' (61 cm) tall. If you’ve never flown a Bertha, get one and launch it. Once you’ve flown it, you’ll take it to every launch. The Big Bertha gives you a slow, realistic liftoff. What a thrill it is to watch. Propelled by powerful standard Estes engines, this beauty travels to 500' (152 m) and comes back to earth with a decorated 18" (46 cm) parachute. Quality Estes body tubes, laser cut balsa fins, molded plastic nose cone and easy to apply self stick decals make for an afternoon of building enjoyment. In one afternoon your Bertha is ready for an exciting time at the launch field. Cutting, sanding and painting required. Building tools, finishing supplies, engines and launch supplies also needed - sold separately. Recommended for ages 10 an up with adult supervision for those under 12. ## Features - INTERMEDIATE MODEL-ROCKET-BUILDING KIT: The Big Bertha rocket-building kit offers kids ages 10+ and rocketeer enthusiasts an exciting hands-on STEM experience. It includes a durable body tube, a molded nose cone, laser-cut balsa fins, decals, and an 18-inch recovery parachute. It requires Estes rocket engines, Starters, Recovery Wadding, a launch pad system, and 4 high-quality 1.5-volt AA alkaline batteries for launch use (sold separately). - SOARS UP TO 500 FT.: Our 1948 Big Bertha rocket model blasts off with a powerful standard engine and has a slow, realistic liftoff. It soars with a projected altitude of up to 500 ft. (152 m) using a C6-5 Estes rocket engines (sold separately). This flying model rocket is compatible with B4-2, B4-4, B6-2, and B6-4 rocket engines. - READY TO ASSEMBLE: This intermediate model kit requires about 1 hour of assembly time, offering a rewarding build-and-launch project for young learners. Then pair it with an Estes Porta-Pad II Pad and Electron Beam Controller (sold separately) for liftoff. - SAFETY FIRST, FUN ALWAYS: Our rockets and rocket launch accessories are designed to be used with the NAR (National Association of Rocketry) model-rocket safety code. Always ensure you have an appropriate launch site, stand back at least 15 ft., insert the safety key, issue a countdown, and then you can let your rocket fly! - WE IGNITE IMAGINATIONS: Since 1958, Estes has created educational rocket kits and displays designed for an unforgettable aerospace experience. As a family-owned company, we have grown to offer exciting STEM products that engage aspiring rocketeers and the future minds of aerospace. - An Estes original - Laser cut balsa fins - Standard engine powered - Parachute recovery - Flies over 500' ## Technical Specifications | Specification | Value | |---------------|-------| | ASIN | B0006NAMUO | | Additional Features | Recommended Engines: B4-2, B4-4, B6-2, B6-4, C6-5 | | Age Range Description | Kid | | Art Craft Kit Type | model rocket kit | | Brand Name | Estes | | Color | Yellow | | Customer Reviews | 4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars (598) | | Global Trade Identification Number | 00047776019485, 00534262068558 | | Included Components | Estes Rockets 1948 Big Bertha Model Rocket Kit, Skill Level 1 | | Item Dimensions | 6.5 x 2.5 x 12 inches | | Item Type Name | Model Rockets | | Item Weight | 2.5 Ounces | | Manufacturer | Estes | | Manufacturer Part Number | 1948 | | Material Type | Laser Cut Wood | | Model Name | Estes 1948 Big Bertha Model Rocket Kit | | Model Number | 1948 | | Number of Pieces | 1 | | Paint Type | Water-based | | Product Style | Classic | | Scale | life-size | | Seasons | All Seasons | | Set Name | Estes | | Size | Standard | | Subject Character | Rocketry | | Theme | Model Rocket Kit | | UPC | 534262068558 047776019485 | | Unit Count | 1.0 Count | | Warranty Description | 1 Year Warranty Against Manufacturer Defects | ## Product Details - **Age Range (Description):** Kid - **Brand:** Estes - **Color:** Yellow - **Item dimensions L x W x H:** 6.5 x 2.5 x 12 inches - **Theme:** Model Rocket Kit ## Images ![Estes 1948 Big Bertha Rocket-Building Kit, Intermediate Flying-Rocket-Model Kit for Ages 10+ - Image 1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/615nM+moFbL.jpg) ## Questions & Answers **Q: Hi, I'm beginner so what do I need to buy beside "Estes 1948 Big Bertha Flying Model Rocket Kit" ?** A: 1) A launch pad with controller. Batteries for the controller.2) Wadding to keep the parachute from burning.3) Engines with ignitors. B4-4 for smaller areas in town, but it won't go very high. C6-5's for larger areas and good height.4) Glue for the construction. Regular Elmer's is probably too weak, so I'd go with Wood Glue.5) Paint - your choice, obviously. I painted mine in the colors of my favorite NFL team. That paint cost more than the rocket, though! **Q: Will this rocket launch with the launch pad in the 1403 Riptide Launch Set?** A: Yes it will, I have both and use that launcher. **Q: the size engine** A: If built as instructed, it can use 18 mm B (B4, B6) and C engines (C6). "A" engines are too underpowered. **Q: does this kit include the launching frame, or does it need to be purchased separately?** A: Launch equipment is purchased separately. ## Frequently Bought Together - Estes Big Bertha, Yellow - Estes 2274 Recovery Wadding - MDL RCKT ENGNS 3PC C6-5 --- ## Why Shop on Desertcart? - 🛒 **Trusted by 1.3+ Million Shoppers** — Serving international shoppers since 2016 - 🌍 **Shop Globally** — Access 737+ million products across 21 categories - 💰 **No Hidden Fees** — All customs, duties, and taxes included in the price - 🔄 **15-Day Free Returns** — Hassle-free returns (30 days for PRO members) - 🔒 **Secure Payments** — Trusted payment options with buyer protection - ⭐ **TrustPilot Rated 4.5/5** — Based on 8,000+ happy customer reviews **Shop now:** [https://www.desertcart.com.au/products/1365822-estes-1948-big-bertha-rocket-building-kit-intermediate-flying-rocket](https://www.desertcart.com.au/products/1365822-estes-1948-big-bertha-rocket-building-kit-intermediate-flying-rocket) --- *Product available on Desertcart Australia* *Store origin: AU* *Last updated: 2026-06-30*