HMS Victory - Mantua 1:78 Build log

[AllanKP69]

Hi Phillip,
Do you know what year the kit represents? The photos you post show side davits for two of her ship's boats so I am guessing after 1860 which is the earliest known presence of her side davits. That is interesting as most kits seem to want to show her as she looked at her last sea battle at Trafalgar in 1805. (The transom davits supposedly were added in 1803 during her rebuild so would have been present at Trafalgar)
Allan

 

[Phillipsart]

HMS Victory Build – Bowsprit Progress & Question ️

I’ve started working on the bowsprit for my Victory build and I’ve hit a little snag.

As you can see in the photos, the plans and instructions aren’t to scale, and they fail to indicate the exact distance between the two key points on the bowsprit (shown in the diagram).

I’ve built the components and dry-fitted them, but without a measurement it’s a bit of guesswork.

Could anyone with the same kit (or who has already built this section) measure the correct distance for me? That would really help me get it right before I lock everything in place.

Thanks in advance – every bit of shared knowledge makes this build a little smoother!

 

[Phillipsart]

Mantua HMS Victory Build – Mast Work Begins ️
Big step forward today – I’ve started working on the masts. The very first one to take shape is the bowsprit, which is now fitted in place at the bow. This is a critical piece as it sets the foundation for the rigging that will eventually spread out across the foremast and forward sails.

I also began painting and detailing the bowsprit, giving it that authentic look to match the period fittings. The joints and supports have been carefully test-fitted to ensure the correct angles before I move further along with the rigging.

There’s still a lot more shaping, finishing, and detailing ahead – but seeing the bowsprit installed really changes the whole look of the ship. It finally starts to feel like HMS Victory is rising up with her towering masts.

Every little step is bringing this legend of the seas closer to life in miniature form.

️ Bit by bit, the Victory is taking shape!

 

[Phillipsart]

️ HMS Victory Build – Main Mast Progress ️

Started on the main mast today – one of the most important parts of the entire build. This section has taken quite a bit of careful filing, shaping, and sanding to get the correct tapers and squared sections as shown in the plans. It’s amazing how much detail goes into these masts, and I’m impressed with how well the kit captures the complexity.

I’ve also begun the painting stage – working the lower mast in the traditional yellow with black sections above, which already gives it that classic Victory look.

Next up is the crows’ bridge (fighting top). I’m still deciding whether to leave it in its natural timber with a varnished finish, which highlights the wood grain, or go with a more authentic black paint to match the period style and contrast with the mast. Both have their appeal – timber gives warmth and craftsmanship, while black ties it in with the ship’s historical look.

Lots more work ahead with fittings, rigging points, and detailing, but I’m very happy with how it’s starting to take shape. Each step makes this iconic ship feel more alive.

️ What do you think – paint the crows’ bridge black or leave it natural timber?

 

[GrantTyler]

She is looking impressive

 

[Phillipsart]

She is looking impressive

Thanks

 

[AllanKP69]

You may find the below drawing from The Masting and Rigging of English Ships of War by James Lees, on page 4 useful.

Allan

 

[Phillipsart]

I’ve decided to paint the crows’ bridge black as well. It gives it that authentic period look and really ties in with the ship’s style. Loving the way it’s coming together! ️

 

[AllanKP69]

The tops (crow's bridge) being painted black look great!. This is a kit thing for sure, but I wonder why they have a round hole in the cap for the masthead and the bottom of the topmast is round. Everything would be spinning in the wind
Allan

The two drawings on the right are from James Lees' The Masting and Rigging.