March 12, 2026
Description
Ball-joint model rocket launch pad for smaller hobby models.
Allows for quick wind-adjustment in any direction without moving the pad.
Requires 1/8" rod (From any hardware store) and optional M4 screw and threaded insert to retain the rod (probably fine without though)
I used a can opener to cut out the bottom of a steel coffee can to use as the blast deflector, drilled a hole in the center. Been through dozens of launches so far, works great. There is a printed deflector mount to hold it steady.
I printed the base and ball joint in PETG for durability, with the legs and deflector mount in PLA. Be sure to print 3x of the leg plate to complete the assembly (Noted in profile). You will need to glue each leg together (2 halves each) with the included dowels. Do not glue the legs to the base, they are designed to be removable for storage.
License:
BY-NC-SA