Should i get the constructo hms victory

[Nickk]

I hope this post is in the correct forum. :) but anyways I have the opportunity to buy a hms victory from constructo pretty cheap and i was wondering what you guys think since the company doesnt exist anymore? And does someone know how good the instructions and it in general is? Otherwise i was thinking about the new artesania latina non anatomy one . 

[Snug Harbor Johnny]

  Ahoy, mate !  You don't say if this will be your first ship model, or if you have prior experience.  If the former, a Victory may not be the best place to start.  I think there is a MSW topic on good "first models" to consider.  I didn't find a review of that kit on MSW, but there was one unboxing and one review on you tube.  Per an A.I. summary of my query on your primary question:

The Constructo HMS Victory kit is  a large, budget-friendly option, praised for its size and decent wood quality but heavily criticized for its poor, basic instructions, often requiring experienced modelers to supplement with other guides or kits for better detail, making it a mixed bag for those seeking accuracy and ease, though it can build into a nice display piece with significant effort. 

Pros:

• Large Scale: A big kit (around 1:94 scale, over 3.5 feet long) offering a substantial build.
• Good Value: Generally considered a great price for the size and wood included.
• Decent Materials: Wood quality is often good, with nice grain, though some pressed wood parts exist.
• Potential for Detail: With extra effort, it can become a good-looking model, especially the framed hull. 

Cons:

• Terrible Instructions: The biggest drawback; described as inadequate, basic, and among the worst in the industry, earning a low score.
• Lacks Accuracy/Detail: Compared to higher-end kits (like Caldercraft), it's simpler and less detailed, with features like deck camber often ignored.
• Advanced Project: Despite its simplicity in some areas, the lack of clear guidance makes it challenging, requiring an experienced builder. 

From the unboxing, there are some wood parts not laser cut, and you have to cut them yourselves.  Other wood parts are 'pressed' (diecut?) but may take care in getting loose.  The bulkheads appear to be laser cut.  There are a number of plastic fittings, but also brass ones.  There have been "simplifications" in the detail, so in the photo below from a reviewer (who said he found the kit difficult ... but persevered) it has the appearance of a better grade commercial pre-built model one can find for sale.

 

  But if the price is right, who knows what can be done with some effort.    

Edited 16 hours ago by Snug Harbor Johnny

[Ronald-V]

To be honest...if I wanted to build a Victory, only the Caldercraft one would be good enough in my opinion.