A Nostalgic Look Back to Jim DiMambro's
Discount Hobby Center
In the early 2000's the Discount Hobby Center was run by Jim DiMambro. It was a rocket lovers go-to store. This was the store's website.
The new owners of this domain remember going to the the Discount Hobby Center as kids to buy rocket kits. Many years later when they had the opportunity to buy the domain they scooped it up. This is their tribute to Jim DiMambro's wonderful store and particularly to its fine selection of rockets!!
Content is from the site's circa 2000 archived pages.
Eventually Jim DiMambro sold the store to new owners who ran it for a number of years. Under this new ownership the Discount Hobby Specialties carried everything you could imagine for hobby lovers and if they didn't have it in store they would order it for you and have it in a couple of days. There were toys for any kid or adult. They carried rocketry, remote control boats, planes, cars and tanks. There was a wide selection of plastic ships, tanks, cars, military planes and accessories. They also had kites, puzzles, games, paints and supplies, in addition to kits for Star Trek and the Munsters among a few others, PLUS classic items like Mr. Potato Head, Thomas the Train and even some Yankees and Jets gear.
Sadly, according to Yelpers, the Discount Hobby Center is now permanently closed.
CIRCA 2000
Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Jim DiMambro and I am the owner of the Discount Hobby Center. I've been in the hobby and rocketry business for 27 years now - scary - and am happy to be able to offer our tremendous savings and service over the Internet to you.
I'm the guy you'll talk to when you place your order. Additionally, I'll be happy to answer any questions you might have concerning the rockets I offer and rocketry in general. I hold a level 2 certification in the NAR(#56523) and TRA(#2888) and am a member of NARCON, a conneticut based Tripoli prefecture.
We stock everything we have listed on our site, which is quite a lot and take pride in that. If you have questions or comments pertaining to anything about rocketry, price, or stock questions, call me or submit a comment form at your convenience. If you would like to e-mail me, I'm at jim@discounthobbycenter.com. We want to be your High Power Rocketry Source!
DHC Launches Military Models Page
Discount Hobby Center has been a leader in the Model Kits mail-order arena for over 20 years. Now we are bringing our experience and expertise to the Internet along with the incredible prices customers have come to expect from DHC. For the best deals on Tamiya and Verlinden models please visit our models page
At Discount Hobby Center we are committed to featuring the best manufacturers of quality high-power model rockets in the industry. Our list speaks for itself - along with pricing that can't be beat.
We have nearly everything we list in stock! Compare prices and see what the DISCOUNT in Discount Hobby Center is all about........
We carry the full line of high quality Loc/Precision Rocket kits and Parts. Make Discount Hobby Center your one stop Loc/Precision dealer and save a bundle while your doing it !
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An aside: As a kid growing up I loved the Discount Hobby Center. I'd go online with my Dad and we would spend hours checking out their newest rockets. By the tie I was in high school and earning my own money I could indulge a bit more, but still needed to use a parental's credit card to place the order. Now living on my own after college I hadn't really thought about the Discount Hobby Center until my mother called and told me they were getting rid of a lot of stuff before moving into an adults only community in Florida. Did I want all my old rockets that she had kept for me? I agreed to drive to their home, my childhood home, and pick up my stuff. I brought my two miniature schnauzers, Tip and Tap with me. My parents had never met them and thought they were so sweet and playful. While I loaded my car my parents played games of fetch with them. As I was about to go, my mother asked if I wanted any of the extra throw pillows she was planning on donating to the local Salvation Army.
"Wouldn't these be the perfect beds for the dog in your life?" "That's dogs, Mom", I replied. And actually I already have these dog beds for Tip and Tap that do look like round pillows. Because they are covered in designer fabrics, I have had friends drop by and use them as floor pillows. Fortunately Tip and Tap like to share, so no one has been growled at. LOL."
I showed her a pic on my phone of the dogs on their new round dog beds the day they arrived from GoodnightDog. My mother was amazed at the dog bed fabrics. The fabric happened to be the exact design she had on their bedroom drapes. Talk about coincidence.
So here I am at my own place going through the boxes with all my rockets which are mostly from the Discount Hobby Center. It sure brings back a lot of great memories.
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Estes Classics have arrived! Checkout out our unbelievable deals on the these new Estes Releases:
- Maxi Alpha 3 - $24.50
- V-2 Rocket - $21.00
- Super Big Bertha - $24.50
- Honest John - $45.50
Where can I find out about ordering information:
Checkout out the Ordering Information Page. You'll find explanantions about the various options we offer concerning ordering, payment options, and shipping.
Also, You can fill out our Quick Quote Form and get the questions you need answered and the discount pricing you want - fast! We have Level II certified TRA & NAR personnel on staff.
What are your shipping costs: We charge a flat rate of $5.98 to ship anywhere in the lower 48 states. Doesn't matter if you buy a single motor or a dozen kits, the price is $5.98. Please note that this delivery method usually takes between 4 -10 working days for delivery. Int'l and non-lower 48 should e-mail us for a shipping charge. We ship all motors USPS.
Secure Shopping at discounthobbycenter.com
To start shopping right away checkout our Quicklinks Dropdown window on this page or go directly to Rocket Kits, Motors, or Components for the best values in the business!
Please read our Ordering Information page for details on getting the products you need at the discounts you deserve.
*Important Ordering Information: Please be advised that under federal government regulations the purchase of all solid propellant rocket motors must be shipped via ground transportation. This delivery method usually takes anywhere from 4 - 10 working days for delivery.
Rocketman Kits and Recovery Systems
We are proud to introduce our newest product line to the DHC website. Rocketman Enterprises has long been a leader in innovation in the high power rocketry arena. Now you can get terrific discounts on Rocketman's full line of awesome Kits and recovery systems
Make sure to revisit our Motors area. We will be continously updating all pricing in this category to remain the best on the Internet.
If you would like a price quote e-mailed to you on an item you don't see, please fill out our quick-quote form.
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About Us 2014
Discount Hobby Center is under new ownership and management (Discount Hobby Specialties). Our goals are low prices and prompt service.
We stock just about everything we have listed on our site and take pride in this fact. If you have questions or comments pertaining to rocketry (components, motors, parachutes), price, or stock items, contact us by phone: (315) 736-4434 at your convenience. We have a Level 2 Rocketeer available who can answer any questions you might have about rocketry. WE WANT TO BE YOUR HIGH-POWER ROCKETRY SOURCE!
Discount Hobbies Specialties
214 Oriskany Blvd.
Whitesboro, NY 13492
UPDATE:
As of 2019 the Discount Hobby Center is closed permanently.
More Background on DiscountHobbyCenter.com
DiscountHobbyCenter.com was once a beloved online destination for hobbyists, particularly those passionate about model rocketry and remote-control vehicles. Its story is deeply intertwined with the broader history of hobby retail in the United States, and its legacy endures among enthusiasts who recall its unique offerings, customer service, and role in fostering a vibrant community. This article explores the history, reputation, cultural significance, and eventual closure of DiscountHobbyCenter.com, drawing from public reviews, archived discussions, and broader hobbyist culture.
History and Evolution
Founding and Early Years
Discount Hobby Center, operated by Jim DiMambro, emerged as a retail hub in the early 2000s, catering to rocketry aficionados and general hobbyists. The business was based out of Whitesboro, New York, and quickly became known for its comprehensive selection of model rockets, remote-control vehicles, plastic kits, and related accessories. DiMambro, a Level 2 certified member of both the National Association of Rocketry (NAR) and Tripoli Rocketry Association (TRA), was the face of the business, offering expert advice and personalized customer service.
Transition and Expansion
After years of successful operation, the store changed ownership, becoming Discount Hobby Specialties. The new management continued the tradition of stocking a wide array of hobby supplies, expanding the inventory to include toys, puzzles, kites, games, and even pop culture collectibles like Star Trek and Munsters kits. The store prided itself on its ability to order specialty items for customers and maintain a vast in-stock selection.
Online Presence
DiscountHobbyCenter.com was among the early adopters of e-commerce in the hobby sector, offering online ordering, detailed product descriptions, and a commitment to prompt service. The website featured secure shopping, flat-rate shipping, and a quick-quote form for custom orders, making it an accessible and user-friendly platform for hobbyists across the United States.
Closure
Despite its popularity and loyal customer base, Discount Hobby Center eventually closed its doors in 2019, a casualty of shifting retail landscapes and the rise of large online marketplaces. Its closure marked the end of an era for many in the hobby community, who fondly recall the expertise and personal touch that characterized the store.
Product Offerings and Services
Model Rocketry
Discount Hobby Center was especially renowned for its model rocketry selection. The store carried high-quality kits from leading manufacturers such as Loc/Precision, Estes, and Rocketman Enterprises. Offerings ranged from beginner-friendly sport rockets to advanced high-power kits suitable for certified rocketeers. The store also stocked a full range of motors, parachutes, and components, catering to both casual hobbyists and serious competitors.
Remote-Control Vehicles and Plastic Models
In addition to rocketry, the store offered remote-control boats, planes, cars, and tanks, as well as a diverse selection of plastic model kits—ships, tanks, military planes, and accessories. This broad inventory appealed to a wide demographic, from children and families to adult collectors and builders.
Toys, Games, and Collectibles
The expanded inventory under Discount Hobby Specialties included classic toys like Mr. Potato Head, Thomas the Train, and sports memorabilia. The store also embraced pop culture, offering kits and collectibles from popular franchises, which helped attract a broader audience beyond traditional hobbyists.
Customer Service and Expertise
A distinguishing feature of Discount Hobby Center was its commitment to customer service. Jim DiMambro and his team were known for their willingness to answer technical questions, provide advice on rocketry and model building, and ensure that customers found the right products for their needs. The presence of certified rocketeers on staff added credibility and trust, making the store a go-to resource for both novices and experts.
Reputation and Reviews
Community Sentiment
Discount Hobby Center enjoyed a strong reputation among hobbyists, as evidenced by nostalgic testimonials and online discussions. Customers praised the store's knowledgeable staff, competitive pricing, and the breadth of its inventory. Many recall the excitement of browsing the website with family members, eagerly anticipating new rocket releases or hunting for hard-to-find kits.
Customer Experiences
A recurring theme in reviews is the personalized attention customers received. Whether seeking advice on high-power rocketry or placing a custom order, patrons felt valued and supported. The store's flat-rate shipping and prompt fulfillment were also frequently cited as reasons for repeat business.
Legacy in the Hobby Community
Even after its closure, Discount Hobby Center is remembered as a formative influence on many hobbyists. For some, it was the place where they purchased their first rocket kit or discovered a lifelong passion for model building. The store's role in introducing new generations to the joys of hands-on hobbies is a testament to its lasting impact.
Cultural and Social Significance
Fostering a Hobbyist Community
Discount Hobby Center was more than a retail outlet—it was a community hub. By offering expert guidance, hosting events, and maintaining an active online presence, the store helped connect hobbyists across the country. Its emphasis on education, safety, and certification in rocketry contributed to the growth and professionalism of the hobby.
Supporting STEM and Creativity
Model rocketry and related hobbies are often gateways to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. Discount Hobby Center played a role in nurturing curiosity, problem-solving skills, and technical knowledge among young enthusiasts. The hands-on nature of the products encouraged experimentation, learning, and creativity.
Adapting to Changing Times
The store's early adoption of e-commerce and willingness to evolve its inventory reflected an understanding of changing consumer preferences. By embracing both traditional and emerging interests, Discount Hobby Center remained relevant for decades, even as the retail landscape shifted.
Press and Media Coverage
While Discount Hobby Center did not receive extensive mainstream media coverage, it was frequently mentioned in hobbyist forums, newsletters, and local news features. Its reputation was built primarily through word-of-mouth, online reviews, and its visible presence at hobby events and trade shows.
Audience and Demographics
Core Customers
The primary audience for Discount Hobby Center consisted of model rocketry enthusiasts, remote-control vehicle hobbyists, and plastic model builders. The store also attracted parents seeking educational toys, collectors of pop culture memorabilia, and individuals looking for unique gifts.
Geographic Reach
Although based in New York, the store's online platform allowed it to serve customers nationwide. Its flat-rate shipping policy and responsive customer service made it accessible to hobbyists in both urban and rural areas.
Known For: Distinctive Features and Highlights
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Expert Staff | Level 2 certified rocketeers available for advice and support |
| Comprehensive Inventory | Wide selection of rockets, RC vehicles, plastic models, and accessories |
| Customer-Centric Approach | Personalized service, quick-quote forms, and custom ordering |
| Flat-Rate Shipping | Affordable and predictable shipping costs |
| Early E-Commerce Adoption | User-friendly website with secure shopping and detailed product information |
| Community Engagement | Active participation in hobby events and online forums |
Insights and Specific Examples
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Personalized Advice: Customers could call or email Jim DiMambro directly for recommendations on rocketry kits, motor selection, or troubleshooting—a rarity in today's impersonal online retail environment.
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Educational Outreach: The store's staff included certified rocketeers who could guide newcomers through the process of certification, safety protocols, and advanced techniques.
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Nostalgic Value: Many former customers recall family bonding experiences, such as building rockets together or receiving advice for school science projects.
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Adaptability: The transition to new ownership and the expansion of product lines demonstrated a willingness to adapt to changing market demands, ensuring continued relevance.
Broader Context: The Decline of Specialty Hobby Stores
Discount Hobby Center's closure reflects a broader trend in the retail industry. The rise of big-box retailers and online giants like Amazon has made it difficult for specialty stores to compete on price and convenience. However, what is often lost in this transition is the expertise, community, and personalized service that defined stores like Discount Hobby Center.
DiscountHobbyCenter.com was more than just a website—it was a cornerstone of the American hobbyist community. Through its expert staff, diverse inventory, and commitment to customer service, it fostered a sense of belonging and inspired countless individuals to explore the world of model rocketry and beyond. Its legacy lives on in the memories of those it served and the passions it helped ignite.
