M1147 AMP Tank Round Semi-Scale Builders Kit

Description

In 2022, the M1147 Advanced Multi Purpose (AMP) 120mm cartridge replaced multiple existing forms of ordnance for the U.S. ABRAMS M1A2 main battle tank. You can see a great video of the M1147 in action here. This was such a cool looking round that I decided to design a semi-scale M1147 model rocket w/ BT-80 main tube. Added bonus, I made the fins fold so that it could potentially be tube-launched with some adaptation. Picture with my orange Big Bertha for size comparison. You can also see a bit of how I measured scale from the last photo. Model is only 97g without motor and parachute so should launch on a wide range of motors from B6-2/4, C6-3, C5-3, D12-3, E12-4, or composites. Launches over 100m (300′) on C6-3 and over 250m (850′) on E12-4.

If this is backordered: I produce these models on demand in lots of 9 kits. As soon as I get 4 orders I will do a new production run so please pre-order / order on backorder and I will communicate as soon as I produce the kits.

You will get all the 3D printed parts (printed w/ ABS plastic filament) and CNC’d plywood fins (milled from 1.75mm birch plywood) to make the M1147 model shown (also get a bamboo skewer to cut pieces for mounting fins). I have included an engine block and press-fit tapered adapter to allow 18mm motors (and to simulate the look of real thing) but you can also launch with 24mm motors (friction fit in BT-50 rear tube). 3D printed and CNC’d parts require some cleanup, support / tab removal, filling, sanding, etc…

This is a builders kit so you provide the standard Estes tubes — BT-80 main body (9cm) and BT-50 rear tube (11.5cm) and recovery system (as well as any mechanism for opening fins if you desire to tube launch). Fins stay open on their own for normal launches but can be folder for display or transportation.

Here is my built version launching on a C5-3:

Here is the OpenRocket simulation (You will receive the ORK file with your order so you can update with your specific build):

Sorry my finishing skills are not great — I am sure many of you can make this look incredible with a nice paint job and I really hope to see someone adapt this for tube launches!

Disclaimer: I only list and sell model rockets that I have built and launched stable. However, so much of the build for these models depends on choices you make in assembly, motor configurations, weight of fillets / glue, etc… Thus, I cannot guarantee that your flight will be as stable as mine. I strongly recommend that you update Open Rocket simulations files to match your build and do a swing test or other stability test to confirm stability prior to launching. Also you should always pay careful attention with “heads up” launches till you are sure of the stability of a new model rocket. Please follow NAR guidelines as well as local and other laws and regulations.