---
product_id: 384616413
title: "Estes 1256 Alpha III Flying Model Rocket Kit"
brand: "estes"
price: "€ 113.37"
currency: EUR
in_stock: true
reviews_count: 5
category: "Estes"
url: https://www.desertcart.at/products/384616413-estes-1256-alpha-iii-flying-model-rocket-kit
store_origin: AT
region: Austria
---

# Pre-colored, easy build 1 hour assembly time 1150 ft max altitude Estes 1256 Alpha III Flying Model Rocket Kit

**Brand:** estes
**Price:** € 113.37
**Availability:** ✅ In Stock

## Summary

> 🚀 Ignite your inner astronaut with the Alpha III – where every launch is a first-class thrill!

## Quick Answers

- **What is this?** Estes 1256 Alpha III Flying Model Rocket Kit by estes
- **How much does it cost?** € 113.37 with free shipping
- **Is it available?** Yes, in stock and ready to ship
- **Where can I buy it?** [www.desertcart.at](https://www.desertcart.at/products/384616413-estes-1256-alpha-iii-flying-model-rocket-kit)

## 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

- • **Sky-High Thrills:** Soars up to 1150 ft on a C6-7 engine for breathtaking launches.
- • **Safe & Smooth Recovery:** Bright 12-inch parachute ensures gentle, visible returns every time.
- • **Beginner-Friendly Build:** Pre-colored parts and simple assembly make liftoff-ready in about an hour.
- • **Classic Design, Modern Fun:** Iconic black and fluorescent orange finish stands out on every launch day.
- • **STEM Learning Made Exciting:** Hands-on rocket science exploration perfect for aspiring engineers and hobbyists.

## Overview

The Estes 1256 Alpha III Flying Model Rocket Kit is a beginner-level, easy-to-assemble model rocket featuring pre-colored parts and a classic black and fluorescent orange design. It reaches altitudes up to 1150 feet using standard Estes engines (sold separately) and includes a bright 12-inch parachute for safe recovery. With an estimated assembly time of just one hour, this kit offers an accessible, hands-on introduction to rocketry and STEM concepts, making it a timeless favorite among hobbyists and educators alike.

## Description

The Estes Alpha III Model Rocket Kits are the perfect introduction to model rocketry and hands-on STEM education. Designed for beginners and science enthusiasts alike, the Alpha III offers an exciting, interactive way to explore physics, engineering, and flight. Known for its smooth performance and stability, this iconic rocket delivers dependable results for classrooms, family projects, and science fairs.Standing approximately 12.1" tall, the Alpha III can soar up to 1,150 ft. on an Estes engine (sold separately). Its precolored body, 1-piece fin design, and 12-inch matching recovery parachute make assembly simple and rewarding. Builders can explore the fundamentals of thrust, trajectory, and aerodynamics in an engaging, real-world context.To launch this rocket, you will need an Estes Porta Pad II Launch Pad, an Electron Beam Launch Controller, compatible Estes model-rocket engines, Starters, Recovery Wadding, and any extra materials listed in the directions (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!

Review: うまく打ち上がり達成感 - 地上無風で、天気がよい日に打ち上げ。ほぼまっすぐ打ち上がり、見事でした。パラシュートは熱で少しダメージがありましたが、危険なく回収できました。うまく上がって、回収もでき、子たちは達成感を得たようです。フィンもノーズコーンもしっかりしているので、スイングテストで安定していれば、そのまま打ち上げの状態に反映されるように思いました。
Review: Not a kit - It only comes with the rocket body, not the launcher and igniter shown in the picture.

## Features

- There’s no thrill quite like launching a model rocket, watching it streak skyward, reach peak altitude, and then return gently to earth. When you build them, the thrill is even better than ever. Thanks to Estes model rocketry, kids can explore the wondrous world of science while experimenting with different combinations of rockets, engines and accessories to better understand how rockets reach outer space.
- SKILL LEVEL: The Alpha III is an easy-to-assemble, Beginner level rocket with pre-colored parts.
- RECOMMENDED ENGINES: 1/2A6-2, A8-3, A8-5, B4-4, B6-4, B6-6, C6-5, C6-7
- PROJECTED ALTITUDE: 1150 ft. (351 m) on a C6-7
- ESTIMATED ASSEMBLY TIME: 1 Hour (painting and glue drying time not included)

## Technical Specifications

| Specification | Value |
|---------------|-------|
| ASIN | B0006N73WE |
| Age Range (Description) | Adult |
| Age Range Description | Adult |
| Battery Description | Lithium |
| Brand | Estes |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Customer Reviews | 4.0 out of 5 stars 515 Reviews |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00047776012561 |
| Included Components | Estes Rockets 1256 Alpha III Rocket Kit, E2X |
| Is Assembly Required | Yes |
| Item Dimensions | 25 x 305 x 305 Millimeters |
| Item Weight | 0.18 Pounds |
| Item dimensions L x W x H | 25 x 305 x 305 Millimeters |
| Manufacturer | Estes |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 1256 |
| Material | Plastic |
| Maximum Recommended age | 1200.0 |
| Model Number | 1256 |
| Size | 0.98 inches x 12 inches x 12 inches |
| Theme | Rocket |
| UPC | 885510271931 047776112568 047776012561 |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |

## Images

![Estes 1256 Alpha III Flying Model Rocket Kit - Image 1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61oqsfdhAsL.jpg)
![Estes 1256 Alpha III Flying Model Rocket Kit - Image 2](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51sLxrCsJXL.jpg)
![Estes 1256 Alpha III Flying Model Rocket Kit - Image 3](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51gmX255GYL.jpg)
![Estes 1256 Alpha III Flying Model Rocket Kit - Image 4](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51h0lw4mcnL.jpg)
![Estes 1256 Alpha III Flying Model Rocket Kit - Image 5](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51Ix0roRYxL.jpg)

## Questions & Answers

**Q: How much engines does it have**
A: No model rocket kit actually comes with engines.  The Alpha III flies on a single engine and the engine must replaced with each flight.

For small flying fields around 200 feet on the smallest side, a 1/2A6-2 or A8-3 would be the best choice.  For flying fields with a few hundred feet on the smallest side, a B6-4 is the most common choice although a B4-4 will work well in this rocket.  For large flying fields, a C6-5 or C6-7 will take it to its maximum altitude and very nearly out of sight.

By law, model rocket engines MUST be shipped by ground so shipping these by USPS Priority Mail or any other service that uses aircraft is against the law and would expose the vendor to hefty fines.  For this reason, even launch sets no longer include engines since including them would prevent shipping launch sets by faster means.  No kits include engines for the same reason.

**Q: Does this rocket require separate purchase of a launch controller?**
A: YES. You will need the launch pad hardware and controller. Have a nice day.

**Q: does it come with an engine?**
A: The Estes PN 1256 Alpha III Model Rocket Kit does not any engines. The Alpha III is an easy to assemble (E2X) kit that includes a molded nose cone and fin assembly, paper motor tube, green centering rings and a metal engine retainer hook. All of these parts are glued together to create the flying model rocket.  We recommend Testors PN 3501 Plastic Cement (red tube) and a small bottle of Titebond II wood glue for assembly. No sanding or painting is required for the Alpha III rocket kit. 
Then for launching, we recommend you purchase PN 2222 Estes Launch System which contains the Estes Porta Pad II Launch Pad, Electron Beam Launch Control, launch rod, blast plate and stand off stem. You will need to purchase four, 1.5V Alkaline batteries for the launch controller (Energizer Max work very well for this application) as well as at least 1 pack of Estes 1598 A8-3 Model Rocket Engines (recommended first for the first launch) and PN 2274 Recovery Wadding. You might also consider purchasing one pack of Estes 2302 Starters just in case you need an extra or two. 
You could get also get the Alpha III rocket and a complete Estes launch system in one package by ordering PN 1427, the Estes Alpha III Launch Set, but you will still be required to purchase the glue, engines, recovering wadding, extra starters and batteries to assemble and launch the rocket.

The Estes Team.

**Q: I am looking for a rocket my kids can paint themselves ...any suggestions ?**
A: The sister rocket to the Alpha III is the Estes 1225 Alpha.  This kit contains Balsa wood fins and an unpainted body tube.  The rocket can be painted as you desire.  There are also stickers that can make it look like to cover art.  You can also looks for a bulk pack kit that contains all the parts for the rocket and instructions but is missing all of the fancy pacckaging and is less costly to purchase.

## Customer Reviews

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ うまく打ち上がり達成感
*by R***O on 17 November 2025*

地上無風で、天気がよい日に打ち上げ。ほぼまっすぐ打ち上がり、見事でした。パラシュートは熱で少しダメージがありましたが、危険なく回収できました。うまく上がって、回収もでき、子たちは達成感を得たようです。フィンもノーズコーンもしっかりしているので、スイングテストで安定していれば、そのまま打ち上げの状態に反映されるように思いました。

### ⭐ Not a kit
*by A***. on 27 December 2024*

It only comes with the rocket body, not the launcher and igniter shown in the picture.

### ⭐ What is shown in the image is not what you get - beware
*by R***Z on 29 November 2024*

Not a "kit" whatsoever. The image is completely misleading: No engine, no plate, no launchpad, no launcher. Are model rockets of this size really $45 CDN??? Really angry - sending it back. Don't buy this.

## Frequently Bought Together

- Estes Alpha III,Orange, Black
- Estes 2274 Recovery Wadding
- MDL RCKT ENGNS 3PC C6-5

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*Product available on Desertcart Austria*
*Store origin: AT*
*Last updated: 2026-06-07*