Category Archives: Book Reviews

My First Robot: PlyBot 3D

I recently reviewed the “Robot Builder’s Bonanza,” by Gordon McComb. The PlyBot is his simplest robot; my version uses a 3D-printed base instead of plywood. The motor/gearboxes and wheels are from Tamiya. The good news is that anybody can build … Continue reading →

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Robot Builder’s Bonanza

The “Robot Builder’s Bonanza,” by Gordon McComb, must be one of the very best DIY guides to building robots. McComb shows you how to use basic hand tools, select components, and construct several basic robots. No prior experience is required! … Continue reading →

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Learn to Build Rockets

Today’s model rockets aren’t anything like the amateur rockets that we “old-timers” built back in the 1960s. How was I going to learn to make rockets today, and where would I get all of the parts needed? My solution was … Continue reading →

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Composite Materials Fabrication Handbook #1, by John Wanberg

This is an excellent book for anyone getting started with fiberglass or carbon fiber. The examples range from simple to complex, but are well illustrated and described. I want to make some composite nosecones and tubes, and it looks like … Continue reading →

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Ignition! An Informal History of Liquid Rocket Propellants, by John D. Clark

This book helps explain why some liquid propellants are “better” than others, and why some should be avoided at all costs! I really liked the chapter devoted to hypergolic propellants, but the chapters on monopropellants and hybrid propellants were also … Continue reading →

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