Rockets and cakes both look fantastic, but they work very differently. Here is how to choose in the rockets vs firework cakes debate — and why most displays use both.
Firework cakes
A cake (or barrage) is a block of tubes linked by one fuse. Light it once and it fires every shot in sequence.
- Pros: one fuse, long-lasting, lots of effects, easy to time.
- Cons: bursts at a lower height than rockets.
- Examples: Kaboom 49 shot, Waterloo 100 shot, Golden Palms.
Rockets
Rockets climb high before they burst, so they fill the sky above everything else.
- Pros: height, big single bursts, a classic Bonfire Night feel.
- Cons: each rocket is lit separately and needs a secure launch tube.
- Examples: Hawk Slayer, Jester, Ride to Hell.
Which is better for a small garden?
For small gardens, F2 cakes are usually easier and safer, because they stay in one place and need an 8 metre spectator distance. Add a pack of F2 garden rockets for height.
The best answer: use both
A good display mixes the two. Fire a cake, then a few rockets while you light the next cake. That way there is always something in the sky.
Hawk Slayers offer
Hawk Slayer rockets: buy 1 pack for £35 or any 2 packs for £60.