An engine hook is used to keep the motor from being forced out the aft end of the rocket when the motor's ejection charge is fired. Engine hooks are made of a springy metal so that they may be bent a little to insert and remove the motor.

Screw-on motor retainers serve the same purpose. Some rockets have motor mounts without a forward thrust ring. In this case use a motor with a thrust ring around its back end or add a thrust ring using masking tape.