Building a Roman Warship with COBI Bricks: Step-by-Step

Quick Answer

Build the COBI Roman Warship #20071 by sorting pieces first, following the numbered bag sequence, and paying extra attention to the hull assembly and sail rigging for a sturdy display model.

Step-by-Step Build Guide

1. Step 1: Organize Your Workspace and Sort Bricks: Open all bags and sort pieces by color and type into small containers or trays. Separate the larger hull plates, smaller rigging parts, and unique printed elements. This prevents searching for pieces mid-build and reduces errors. Common mistake: skipping sorting leads to missing or misplacing small oar and sail parts. Take 10 minutes to sort first.
2. Step 2: Build the Hull Base: Follow the manual to assemble the keel and lower hull sections. Ensure each plate clicks fully into place, especially at the bow and stern. The hull uses interlocking bricks for stability, so press firmly but avoid warping the shape. Check that the base sits flat on your table before adding upper layers. A crooked hull will cause alignment issues later.
3. Step 3: Add the Deck and Oar Mechanisms: Attach the deck plates and install the oar assemblies. Each oar should move freely but stay securely attached. Line up the oar ports carefully to match the manual's spacing. Common mistake: forcing oars into misaligned ports can break the clips. Test each oar's movement after placement.
4. Step 4: Construct the Cabin and Stern Details: Build the small cabin structure at the rear of the deck and add any decorative elements like flags or shields. These pieces add historical character but are fragile, so handle gently. Double-check the orientation of printed bricks. They are easy to install upside down.
5. Step 5: Assemble the Mast and Sail Rigging: Build the mast from stacked bricks and attach the sail using the provided connectors. Run the rigging lines (string or brick chains) as shown in the manual. Keep tension even to avoid a sagging sail. Common mistake: overtightening rigging can pull the mast out of alignment. Adjust gradually and check symmetry.
6. Step 6: Mount on the Display Base: Attach the completed ship to the included display base using the provided connectors. Ensure the ship is centered and level. The base provides stability and a finished look for showcasing. Test the ship's balance before finalizing. Adjust the base connection if the ship tilts.

About the Set

• COBI IMPERIUM ROMANUM Roman Warship: Set #20071: Our Sea (Mare Nostrum), as it was called by the Romans. This is because the Mediterranean Sea was the internal sea of the Roman Empire. Dominion over it was ensured by ships powered by human muscle power and sails. For centuries, galleys and liburnians glided majestically across the sea, guarding order! Build a beautiful block warship of the emperor himself and display it on the base! This historical context helps you appreciate the design choices, such as the row of oars and the large sail, which reflect real Roman naval engineering.