How many fins?

[andyh3]

I made 4 fins out of 1/4" balsa wood. I sanded and tapered each into a trapezoid shape with a 4" base and 6" height. I plan to attach them to my 8ft FTC rocket.

Is 4 fins overkill? Will 3 be sufficient enough for rocket stability?

Thanks!

[Cloud Dancers]

3 is probably enough but the rocket might not spin so much if you use 4

Hope that helps you. Keep us posted on how it goes.

[The Mooseheads]

I made 4 fins out of 1/4" balsa wood. I sanded and tapered each into a trapezoid shape with a 4" base and 6" height. I plan to attach them to my 8ft FTC rocket.

Is 4 fins overkill? Will 3 be sufficient enough for rocket stability?

Thanks!

A long skinny rocket like FTC might not even need fins at all, if you put some weight in the nose. The length should make it stable. But if you put fins on, it's easier to mount 4 fins because it's a lot easier to make right angles than 120 degree angles like you need for 3 fins.