HMS Victory - Mantua 1:78 Build log

[Phillipsart]

Nicely done

Thanks GrantTyler

 

[Phillipsart]

HMS Victory – Sail Mounting Progress Update

After taking a well-earned week’s rest, I’m back at the workbench — and what a sight she’s becoming! The HMS Victory is really coming to life now with her sails tied and catching that “imaginary wind.” I’ve only got six more sails left to mount, but already she looks absolutely magnificent.

It’s incredible how much character and movement the sails add — the whole ship now feels like she’s under full canvas, ready to engage at Trafalgar. Each sail has been carefully shaped and tensioned with the rigging to give it a natural billow, as though filled by the sea breeze. Every line and pulley has a job to do, and there’s something deeply satisfying about seeing it all come together after months of intricate rigging.

I did run out of rigging blocks (again!), so another order went in — there’s just no shortcut when you want accuracy and authenticity. The additional blocks will allow me to finish off the remaining sails and some of the finer control lines around the yards.

The copper-plated hull still shines beautifully beneath the rigging, a reminder of how far this build has come — from bare timber frames to a fully-rigged warship of history’s greatest era. Standing here looking at her, it’s hard not to imagine the decks alive with sailors, the creak of timbers, and the wind filling those creamy canvas sails.

Every stage of this build teaches me something new about the craftsmanship and genius behind these great ships. I can’t wait to see her fully rigged — and once the last sail is tied, she’ll be one step closer to her grand display case.

Six sails to go… and the Victory will truly live up to her name.


Stay tuned — the final reveal isn’t far away!

 

[Phillipsart]

New Additions to the Model Yard Workshop

Over the past few days, I’ve been giving my workshop a serious upgrade — adding a few precision tools that will make a big difference in my wooden model shipbuilding. Building these historic ships is all about precision and craftsmanship, and the right tools can transform what’s possible at this scale.

Proxxon MF70 Micro Mill

A brilliant little machine for milling, drilling, and shaping tiny brass or wooden components with absolute accuracy. I’ve already used it to shape dowels for masts and small fittings — smooth, clean, and perfectly aligned. It’s a real gem for fine detail work on ships like Victory and Sovereign of the Seas.

Proxxon PD250 Lathe

Now this one’s a game-changer. I can finally turn my own masts, yards, and cannons precisely to scale. The photo shows my first test piece — The control and finish this lathe provides are superb, and it’s a perfect size for model making.

Pegas Precision Scroll Saw Upgrade

I fitted my Sherwood scroll saw with Swiss-made Pegas clamps. These things are magic — they hold the blades firmly, make changes fast, and keep everything running true. They’ll be perfect for those complex deck and hull details where accuracy and blade tension really matter.

Each of these tools brings me one step closer to creating truly museum-quality results. I can now fabricate custom parts, reproduce authentic shapes, and refine even the tiniest components with ease.

And in the final shot — that’s me holding my Mantua HMS Victory 1:78, my proudest build so far. Seeing her completed reminds me how every small improvement, every tool, and every new technique adds up to something truly special.

Next on the list: custom brass fittings and fine-turned belaying pins — all made right here in The Model Yard with Phil.



Stay tuned — the fleet is only just getting started!

 

[Phillipsart]

Another Big Milestone on the HMS Victory!

Another two sails tied today — and with that, the entire foremast is now complete!

This one was a serious effort; there’s so much going on up front with all the lines, blocks, and braces converging around the bowsprit and lower yards. Every single rope needed to be positioned just right to keep the sails set as if they’re catching a light wind.

It’s honestly one of the most rewarding parts of the build so far — seeing the Victory take on that powerful, full-sail look that she’s famous for. The contrast between the natural sail cloth, the black-and-yellow hull, and the coppered bottom really makes her come alive.

Looking at her now, it’s hard to believe how far this build has come — from the first keel plank to this moment, with the sails stretched out and the rigging webbed like a real working ship. There’s still more to do, but she’s so close to completion now.

It’s been a long and detailed journey, but I can’t help standing back and thinking, “What a magnificent sight she must have been in full sail on the open sea.”

Next up — finishing the remaining sails on the mizzen masts, then final touches like coiled ropes, anchors, and display prep. Not long now before she’s ready for her display case and the spotlight she deserves!



Proudly flying the Cross of St George and the Union Jack — the HMS Victory stands tall once again!

 

[GrantTyler]

Another Big Milestone on the HMS Victory!

Another two sails tied today — and with that, the entire foremast is now complete!

This one was a serious effort; there’s so much going on up front with all the lines, blocks, and braces converging around the bowsprit and lower yards. Every single rope needed to be positioned just right to keep the sails set as if they’re catching a light wind.

It’s honestly one of the most rewarding parts of the build so far — seeing the Victory take on that powerful, full-sail look that she’s famous for. The contrast between the natural sail cloth, the black-and-yellow hull, and the coppered bottom really makes her come alive.

Looking at her now, it’s hard to believe how far this build has come — from the first keel plank to this moment, with the sails stretched out and the rigging webbed like a real working ship. There’s still more to do, but she’s so close to completion now.

It’s been a long and detailed journey, but I can’t help standing back and thinking, “What a magnificent sight she must have been in full sail on the open sea.”

Next up — finishing the remaining sails on the mizzen masts, then final touches like coiled ropes, anchors, and display prep. Not long now before she’s ready for her display case and the spotlight she deserves!



Proudly flying the Cross of St George and the Union Jack — the HMS Victory stands tall once again!

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Good morning Phillip.

Another Big Milestone on the HMS Victory!

Another two sails tied today — and with that, the entire foremast is now complete!

This one was a serious effort; there’s so much going on up front with all the lines, blocks, and braces converging around the bowsprit and lower yards. Every single rope needed to be positioned just right to keep the sails set as if they’re catching a light wind.

It’s honestly one of the most rewarding parts of the build so far — seeing the Victory take on that powerful, full-sail look that she’s famous for. The contrast between the natural sail cloth, the black-and-yellow hull, and the coppered bottom really makes her come alive.

Looking at her now, it’s hard to believe how far this build has come — from the first keel plank to this moment, with the sails stretched out and the rigging webbed like a real working ship. There’s still more to do, but she’s so close to completion now.

It’s been a long and detailed journey, but I can’t help standing back and thinking, “What a magnificent sight she must have been in full sail on the open sea.”

Next up — finishing the remaining sails on the mizzen masts, then final touches like coiled ropes, anchors, and display prep. Not long now before she’s ready for her display case and the spotlight she deserves!



Proudly flying the Cross of St George and the Union Jack — the HMS Victory stands tall once again!

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Good morning Phillip. Lovely job on those sails. I like the way you got the loose look and feel - nice. Having built the same model I know what a beast of a ship she is. A very cool model to display. Cheers Grant

 

[Phillipsart]

After a few very busy weeks away from the bench, I finally managed to spend some time back on my HMS Victory build — and I’ve got to say, I’m absolutely loving how she’s coming together.

The sails have truly transformed her look. Using the running rigging to shape and tension each sail was a real challenge — there’s an art to getting that natural “billow” as if they’re catching a steady breeze — but I think I’ve finally nailed the effect. Each line had to be carefully adjusted to make the sails look alive and dynamic, and seeing them fill out like this is incredibly rewarding.

This week I managed to tie and mount the front three sails, each one taking careful planning and patient rigging to get the right geometry and balance. Now just one more sail to go before the full set is complete.

Seeing her with most of her canvas up really brings this ship to life — the proportions, the realism, and the presence are just incredible in person. Every hour spent on this stage has been worth it.

Next up will be that final sail and a bit more fine-tuning of the lines before moving on to the remaining deck details. Slowly but surely, Victory is looking ready for sea.

️ Scale: 1:78 Mantua Panart HMS Victory
Stage: Running rigging and sails
Progress: 16 sails mounted — 1 to go!

 

[Phillipsart]

HMS Victory Build – A Milestone Reached!

After many months of dedication, patience, and late nights in the workshop, I’ve finally reached a huge milestone — the sails are now fully completed and mounted on my Mantua HMS Victory (1:78)!

That’s 17 sails tied, shaped, and rigged by hand — each one adjusted carefully with the running rigging to capture that perfect “wind-filled” look. It’s taken an enormous amount of time to get every line and sheet tensioned just right, but the end result was absolutely worth it. The way the sails billow gives this model such a sense of life and movement, as if she’s about to sail out of my workshop.

This build has been a real labour of love from day one. From the first plank on the hull to the last block on the rigging, every stage has been both a challenge and a joy. The copper-plated hull, the complex masts and yards, the maze of rigging — all came together piece by piece over months of careful work.

While I’m building two other ships alongside this one, this Victory will actually be my first full completion, and that makes it even more special. She’s the ship that’s taught me more than any other — about patience, precision, and historical detail.

There are still a few finishing touches to go — the anchors need to be fitted, and I’ll be adding the chain and linkage to the rudder — but she’s nearly there. Once complete, I’ll finally be able to call her finished, and that will be an amazing moment after such a long journey.

Every time I look at her now, sitting proudly with all sails set, I can’t help but feel proud. From the flags flying high to the fine web of rigging, she truly captures the spirit of Nelson’s flagship.

It’s been a long road — measured not just in months, but in thousands of knots, dozens of lines, and endless cups of coffee — but I’ve loved every part of it.

 

[GrantTyler]

HMS Victory Build – A Milestone Reached!

After many months of dedication, patience, and late nights in the workshop, I’ve finally reached a huge milestone — the sails are now fully completed and mounted on my Mantua HMS Victory (1:78)!

That’s 17 sails tied, shaped, and rigged by hand — each one adjusted carefully with the running rigging to capture that perfect “wind-filled” look. It’s taken an enormous amount of time to get every line and sheet tensioned just right, but the end result was absolutely worth it. The way the sails billow gives this model such a sense of life and movement, as if she’s about to sail out of my workshop.

This build has been a real labour of love from day one. From the first plank on the hull to the last block on the rigging, every stage has been both a challenge and a joy. The copper-plated hull, the complex masts and yards, the maze of rigging — all came together piece by piece over months of careful work.

While I’m building two other ships alongside this one, this Victory will actually be my first full completion, and that makes it even more special. She’s the ship that’s taught me more than any other — about patience, precision, and historical detail.

There are still a few finishing touches to go — the anchors need to be fitted, and I’ll be adding the chain and linkage to the rudder — but she’s nearly there. Once complete, I’ll finally be able to call her finished, and that will be an amazing moment after such a long journey.

Every time I look at her now, sitting proudly with all sails set, I can’t help but feel proud. From the flags flying high to the fine web of rigging, she truly captures the spirit of Nelson’s flagship.

It’s been a long road — measured not just in months, but in thousands of knots, dozens of lines, and endless cups of coffee — but I’ve loved every part of it.

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Congrats Phil. Those sails really make the ship. Cheers Grant

 

[Papatotalos]

HMS Victory Build – A Milestone Reached!

After many months of dedication, patience, and late nights in the workshop, I’ve finally reached a huge milestone — the sails are now fully completed and mounted on my Mantua HMS Victory (1:78)!

That’s 17 sails tied, shaped, and rigged by hand — each one adjusted carefully with the running rigging to capture that perfect “wind-filled” look. It’s taken an enormous amount of time to get every line and sheet tensioned just right, but the end result was absolutely worth it. The way the sails billow gives this model such a sense of life and movement, as if she’s about to sail out of my workshop.

This build has been a real labour of love from day one. From the first plank on the hull to the last block on the rigging, every stage has been both a challenge and a joy. The copper-plated hull, the complex masts and yards, the maze of rigging — all came together piece by piece over months of careful work.

While I’m building two other ships alongside this one, this Victory will actually be my first full completion, and that makes it even more special. She’s the ship that’s taught me more than any other — about patience, precision, and historical detail.

There are still a few finishing touches to go — the anchors need to be fitted, and I’ll be adding the chain and linkage to the rudder — but she’s nearly there. Once complete, I’ll finally be able to call her finished, and that will be an amazing moment after such a long journey.

Every time I look at her now, sitting proudly with all sails set, I can’t help but feel proud. From the flags flying high to the fine web of rigging, she truly captures the spirit of Nelson’s flagship.

It’s been a long road — measured not just in months, but in thousands of knots, dozens of lines, and endless cups of coffee — but I’ve loved every part of it.

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Yes Phil, you can be proud with this amazing result. It looks great.
Be careful if you start working on some deck parts. You can stick very quickly in one of the lines.

 

[dockattner]

A huge milestone, indeed, Phil! I'll add my congratulations as well.

 

[Phillipsart]

HMS Victory – Nearing the Finish Line!

After months of work, countless hours of rigging, and hundreds of tiny knots, my Mantua HMS Victory (1:78) is now almost completed!

Today was another big milestone — I finished building and painting all four lifeboats, installed them neatly on deck, and carefully rigged the davits. That job alone took quite a bit of planning and precision, as each small tackle block and hook had to line up perfectly. Every one of those little wooden blocks was hand-drilled, threaded, and positioned to look just like the real ship’s boat-handling gear.

All the sails are now mounted and fully rigged — 17 in total — each shaped and tensioned using the running rigging to give a natural “wind-filled” appearance. This stage was both challenging and rewarding, as I wanted the sails to look alive, as though Victory herself were cutting through the Channel again in 1805.

From the ratlines to the shrouds, the deadeyes, and the intricate gunport lids, this ship has tested my patience, but seeing her standing tall now makes every minute worth it. The lifeboats, anchors, and chain for the rudder are the last small touches to complete before she’s officially finished.

I’m genuinely thrilled with how she’s come together — the copper-plated hull, the realistic deck details, and the grandeur of her rigging have brought this legendary warship to life.

Next, I’ll be focusing on a few final deck details, such as adding coiled ropes and belaying lines to give the model even more authenticity. Once she’s 100 % complete, I’ll photograph her properly and start working with my mate Mark to design the display cabinet that will protect her from dust while allowing her to be proudly showcased.

This has been one of the most enjoyable and rewarding builds I’ve ever done — a true labour of love and patience.

 

[Phillipsart]

COMPLETED – My Mantua 1:78 HMS Victory!

After months and months of late nights, countless knots, rigging lines, blocks, sanding, copper plating, and pure determination… my HMS Victory is officially finished. What an incredible feeling.

This build has been one of the most challenging, rewarding, and emotional projects I’ve ever taken on. I started this journey not aiming for absolute perfection, but for realism — a ship that looks alive, weathered, used, sailed, and carrying its own story. And seeing her now with all sails mounted, rigging tightened, lifeboats fitted, davits rigged, flags flying… I can honestly say I’m extremely proud of what I’ve achieved.


The Build Journey

This Victory came from a deceased estate, with the hull partially completed and containing some errors. I took on the challenge, corrected what I could, rebuilt sections, and carried on the legacy of the original builder. A lot of respect went into honouring the Mantua design while also adding my own touch of realism.

The copper plating was one of the standout moments for me. I didn’t want a brand-new showroom ship – I wanted something that looked like it had seen battles, travelled oceans, and lived a life. The weathering, tones, and textures came together beautifully.



Rigging & Sails – The Part That Nearly Broke Me

The Victory is a beast when it comes to rigging. Hundreds of lines, deadeyes, blocks, ropes running in every direction… and then adding 17 sails on top of that.

Getting the sails to “take wind” naturally was a mission in itself. I spent ages shaping them gently with the running rigging to make them look full and alive. The end result was worth every minute.

The final few lifeboats and davits were completed today, and once the anchors and rudder chain went on, that was it — build complete.



Scale & Detail

At 1:78 scale, she looks absolutely massive in person. Every deck, cannon, ladder, rope coil, mast, and spar was built piece by piece. Seeing the sunlight hit the sails and the shadows cast on the wall makes her look like she’s ready to sail straight off the table.



What This Build Means to Me

This wasn’t just another model.

This was a journey of patience, craftsmanship, learning, and pushing myself further than I expected.

My first fully completed wooden ship — and what a ship to start with.

I’ve genuinely enjoyed every challenge, every triumph, and even the frustrating moments of dropped blocks, tangled lines, and re-tying knots at 1am.

It has all been worth it.


What’s Next

I still can’t believe I’m at the end of this build.

She will eventually be displayed proudly at home, and also at future local hobby expos.


With my mate Mark, I’ll be designing and building a proper display cabinet to keep her protected and dust-free.

Now I can finally step back, take a breath… and admire this incredible ship.


Mantua HMS Victory – completed.


And I’m absolutely over the moon. ️

 

[Papatotalos]

Congratulations with the result Phillip. It looks great and alive.

 

[AllanKP69]

Congrats on finishing your project Phillip!

For the future, there were no blocks or lines on any of the stunsail yards except when the stunsails were rigged. It may be the photos, but it appears you have clew lines and lift lines running through blocks tied to the stunsail yards instead of the yard. The booms were not on top of the yards otherwise they would interfere with the blocks and rigging attached to the yards. From James Lees The Masting and Rigging of English Ships of War, the booms were set at a 45 degree angle between the top of the yard and the foreside of the yard. The sketch below is not to scale, but shows the angle so the stunsail yard will not interfere with the blocks tied to the yard itself.

Allan

 

[dockattner]

Congratulations, Phillip. We can literally feel your pride in what you have accomplished in this build. Display her with a great sense of satisfaction and joy.

 

[oldflyer]

HMS Victory – Sail Mounting Progress Update

After taking a well-earned week’s rest, I’m back at the workbench — and what a sight she’s becoming! The HMS Victory is really coming to life now with her sails tied and catching that “imaginary wind.” I’ve only got six more sails left to mount, but already she looks absolutely magnificent.

It’s incredible how much character and movement the sails add — the whole ship now feels like she’s under full canvas, ready to engage at Trafalgar. Each sail has been carefully shaped and tensioned with the rigging to give it a natural billow, as though filled by the sea breeze. Every line and pulley has a job to do, and there’s something deeply satisfying about seeing it all come together after months of intricate rigging.

I did run out of rigging blocks (again!), so another order went in — there’s just no shortcut when you want accuracy and authenticity. The additional blocks will allow me to finish off the remaining sails and some of the finer control lines around the yards.

The copper-plated hull still shines beautifully beneath the rigging, a reminder of how far this build has come — from bare timber frames to a fully-rigged warship of history’s greatest era. Standing here looking at her, it’s hard not to imagine the decks alive with sailors, the creak of timbers, and the wind filling those creamy canvas sails.

Every stage of this build teaches me something new about the craftsmanship and genius behind these great ships. I can’t wait to see her fully rigged — and once the last sail is tied, she’ll be one step closer to her grand display case.

Six sails to go… and the Victory will truly live up to her name.


Stay tuned — the final reveal isn’t far away!

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Phillip,
you SO captured the look of these sails - super impressive!!

 

[oldflyer]

Phillip,
Huge congratulations - arguably one of the most complicated kits available in our hobby -- well done indeed!!

Cheers

 

[GrantTyler]

Well done Phil. It makes an impressive model. I see you chose the underpants and vest in the fore window as well . Cheers Grant

 

[Phillipsart]

Thanks all. I enjoyed this build a lot. She’s a beautiful ship. Now onto the Sovereign of the Seas and SAN Felipe build