The Estes Pro Series II™ Soyuz is one of those kits that rewards patience and thoughtful planning. It is highly detailed, historically iconic, and deeply satisfying to see completed on your workbench when the final assemblies come together.
To make the build more approachable and enjoyable, modeler and rocketry YouTuber James Duffy created a three part build series that walks through the entire process. From unboxing and planning, to construction, and finally finishing and assembly, this guide pairs each video with practical context so you can build confidently at your own pace.
Before You Start, Set Yourself Up for Success
This is not a kit you want to rush. Taking a few minutes to prepare your workspace and mindset will pay dividends throughout the build.
- Read the instructions completely before gluing any parts
- Dry fit every major assembly to check alignment and sequencing
- Sand lightly and deliberately to preserve crisp details
- Allow glue and paint to fully cure between steps
Recommended Tools and Supplies
- Hobby knife with fresh blades
- Fine sandpaper and a sanding block
- Carpenter’s wood glue or model glue per kit instructions
- Masking tape for alignment and clean paint lines
- Clamps or rubber bands for consistent pressure, optional
- Primer and paint supplies for finishing
Build Series Overview
James breaks the project into logical stages so you can work in focused sessions without losing momentum.
- Part One: Unboxing, parts review, and build planning
- Part Two: Core construction and alignment techniques
- Part Three: Finishing, painting, and final assembly
If you are planning to build along, you can view the full kit details, specifications, and current availability of the Estes Pro Series II™ Soyuz before getting started.
Part One, Unboxing and Build Plan
Before cutting or gluing anything, start with Part One. This video helps you understand what is in the box, how the parts interact, and how to plan the build sequence so later steps stay manageable. A little forethought here prevents common mistakes and unnecessary rework.
Key takeaways from Part One:
- Organize small parts early to avoid confusion later
- Identify steps that benefit from batching similar assemblies
- Think ahead about finishing so paint and assembly do not conflict
If you are eager to jump straight into construction, this is the moment to slow down slightly. Good planning here makes the entire build smoother.
Part Two, Construction
Part Two is where the Soyuz really begins to take shape. Alignment and consistency are critical during this phase, and James demonstrates techniques that help keep everything square, symmetrical, and clean. Following along step by step makes it much easier to achieve a professional looking result.
Construction tips that make a difference:
- Dry fit parts and mark alignment points before applying glue
- Use minimal glue initially, then reinforce once positioned
- Build in short sessions to avoid handling fresh joints
- Keep hands and parts clean to protect surface detail
If you are assembling multiple identical components, work on them together in the same session. Consistency is key to the finished appearance.
Part Three, Finishing and Final Assembly
This is the stage where the Soyuz truly comes to life. Finishing and final assembly transform a well built structure into a striking display piece. James walks through paint strategy, handling techniques, and final details that preserve the crisp look of the model.
Finishing tips for best results:
- Apply primer lightly and sand gently to preserve details
- Burnish masking tape edges for clean paint lines
- Remove tape carefully before paint fully hardens
- Allow paint to cure completely before final assembly
One of the most important lessons here is patience. Cure time is part of the process, and it shows in the final result.
Common Build Challenges and How to Avoid Them
- Misaligned parts: Dry fit, lightly sand, and retest before gluing
- Visible glue marks: Use less glue and reinforce from hidden areas
- Paint bleed: Seal tape edges and use light, even coats
- Forced assembly: Stop and adjust rather than pushing parts together
Final Thoughts, Build It Like a Display Piece
The Estes Soyuz in 1/48 scale is the kind of kit you build once and proudly display. By following James Duffy’s three part video series and taking a deliberate approach, you will end up with a model that feels every bit as impressive as it looks.
Queue up Part One, work methodically, and enjoy the process. This is a build that rewards care at every step.
Watch Each Step of the Build
- The Estes Pro Series II™ Soyuz; Part One, Unboxing and Build Plan
- The Estes Pro Series II™ Soyuz; Part Two, Construction
- The Estes Pro Series II™ Soyuz; Part Three, Finishing and Assembly
Prefer to Watch the Full Build Series in One Place?
If you would rather watch the entire build from start to finish without jumping between videos, the full series is available as a single YouTube playlist.
Building the 1/48 scale Estes Soyuz
Ready to start your own build? Explore the Estes Pro Series II™ Soyuz model rocket and get everything you need to build along with the series.
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