IX. Investments and Accessories

Purchasing the equipment for KAP set me back about a thousand dollars. Below is a summary of approximately what I paid for my principal pieces:

9.5-foot Delta-Conyne kite: $100
13.5-foot Delta-Conyne kite: $200
1,000 feet of 150 lb. Line: $25
1,000 feet of 250 lb. Line: $45
9-inch hoop spool: $10
Strato-spool: $125
Hitec radio-control equipment: $70
Pentax ZX-M and shutter release: $190
Vivitar 19mm f/3.8 lens: $170
Pendulum camera mount: $60

TOTAL: $995

As you might notice, one could save about a third ($370) by buying only the smaller kite and its accessories. I tried that at first, but quickly became frustrated when half the time the wind wasn't strong enough to lift my camera.

		While not required, there are a number of other items good to have along. I try to always have extra batteries and film. When you're ready to launch your camera, it's more than an annoyance to discover you batteries are dead. Don't forget to have another camera with you on the ground to get photos of rig. Other items I carry along are rubber bands, tape, super glue, and a sawing kit. I carry all these items in an old camera case in the back of my van, along with kites, cameras, and a folding chair.

Finally, kiting's more fun with others. Contact the American Kiting Association (352 Hungerford Dr., Rockville, MD 20850-4117) for information about the kiting club nearest you.