This is a retrospective review as the building process can be reviewed at other blogs (eg Jeff-E). My motivations for this particular kit was that 1)to stimulate interest in a grandson, and 2) a easy "quicky" before starting a scratch build. When I started building boats, Panart was highly thought of, therefore I was surprised at the minimal level of instruction and plans. The quality and cut of the wood was satisfactory, but quantity barely adequate. The ropes were only beige. Most blocks were single, where double were needed. I have photos from my visit to Portsmouth, the Longridge book, plans and completed model of Corel's Victory , that I built 30 years ago. without these The build would have been very difficult indeed. Because of relation of scale to (patial) hull length, planking was technically difficult, even with limited bow fillers (not mentioned in plans). In my opinion it was important NOT to PERMANENTLY fix the decks , so that they could be removed after planking and then deal with detailing, guns, gun ports ,etc with full access, each deck at a time. The copper moulding is difficult- the corel had (? does it still have) moulding that was a composite wood dust and glue, that was heated and took any bend or curve and could be glued as wood. The plans make no mention of a notch that needs to be cut into the bow so as to fit the figure head. I cut the figure head into 7 pieces and reassembled them for greater accuracy. The rigging plan was totally inaccurate and incomprehensible. The finished product is more a caricature than a faithful representation. I'm sorry to sound so negative , but I realise that to do this justice, major kit bashing would be required. This was not my purpose. For a novice, this kit is technically challenging and he may be discouraged. More advanced builders, will be frustrated. The kit has the advantage of scale/size and relatively low cost. The subject matter is interesting and and has potential. The manufacturer , with a little effort, could have produced a much better product
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