From Battlefield to Bronze: Crafting a Centurion Mk5 MBT Master for Cold Cast Figurines

The Centurion Mk5 MBT is one of the most iconic British tanks of the Cold War era. Originally part of the legendary Centurion tank family, the Mk5 variant combined battlefield durability with engineering precision — qualities that inspire our workshop process today.

But this post isn’t about battlefield performance.

It’s about how we transform a historic military vehicle like the Centurion Mk5 into a finely detailed cold cast bronze figurine, ready for collectors, military enthusiasts, and history lovers.

Step 1: Research & Reference – Getting the Details Right Cold Cast Figurines

Every project starts with research. The Centurion Mk5 has distinct features that separate it from other variants — turret configuration, 20-pounder barrel proportions, track pattern, and hull details all matter.

Accuracy is everything when producing:

• Military tank figurines

• Cold War armoured vehicle models

• British Army collectible sculptures

• Cold cast bronze military statues

We study reference photography, scale drawings, and surviving museum examples to ensure authenticity before production begins.

Step 2: Creating the Master Model

The “master” is the original piece from which all future moulds are made. For the Centurion Mk5, we typically create the master in one of two ways:

Option A: 3D Printed Master Model

Using high-resolution 3D modelling software, we digitally sculpt the Centurion Mk5 MBT to exact scale. Once finalised, it is printed in ultra-fine resin to capture:

• Turret weld seams

• Track links and suspension

• Engine deck grilles

• Armour plate geometry

After printing, the master is:

• Cleaned

• Sanded

• Surface-corrected

• Primed for moulding

3D printing allows precise scaling for limited edition military tank figurines and bespoke commissions.

Option B: Hand-Built Airfix Conversion Master

For some projects, we begin with a scale kit such as those produced by Airfix. These kits provide a strong structural base, which we then:

• Modify for accuracy

• Reinforce for durability

• Adjust proportions where needed

• Permanently bond and refine details

The entire model is then sealed, filled, and refined to remove kit seams or injection marks — ensuring it is suitable for professional mould making.

This approach is particularly effective for traditional scale modelling enthusiasts who appreciate classic kit craftsmanship.

Step 3: Preparing the Master for Moulding

Before moulding begins, the master must be flawless. Any imperfection will transfer into every casting.

Preparation includes:

• Surface smoothing

• Gap filling

• Structural strengthening

• Application of release-compatible primers

The master is then mounted and carefully positioned to optimise mould flow and detail retention.

Step 4: Silicone Mould Creation

We create high-quality silicone moulds designed to capture every rivet, panel line, and track detail of the Centurion Mk5 MBT.

Proper mould design ensures:

• Clean demoulding

• Minimal air bubbles

• Consistent reproduction

• Long production lifespan

The result is a professional-grade mould capable of producing detailed cold cast bronze tank figurines.

Step 5: Casting in Cold Cast Bronze

Cold cast bronze combines real bronze powder with resin to create a solid, weighty feel and authentic metallic finish.

Each Centurion Mk5 figurine is:

1. Carefully poured

2. De-moulded and inspected

3. Hand-finished

4. Polished to reveal metallic highlights

The final piece captures the presence of the original tank while offering a refined sculptural finish suitable for collectors.

Why the Centurion Mk5 Makes a Powerful Collectible

The Centurion Mk5 MBT represents a defining period in British armoured history. Its balance of firepower, protection, and engineering reliability made it one of the most respected tanks of its era.

For collectors of:

• British Army memorabilia

• Military vehicle figurines

• Cold War tank sculptures

• Cold cast bronze military art

…it’s a commanding subject that translates beautifully into bronze.

From Workshop to Collector’s Shelf

Whether 3D printed or built from a refined kit base, every Centurion Mk5 master we create is designed with longevity, accuracy, and collectability in mind.

Turning a historic Main Battle Tank into a cold cast bronze figurine requires:

• Technical precision

• Sculptural craftsmanship

• Military knowledge

• Careful mould engineering

The result? A timeless piece of armoured history — cast in bronze, built to last.

Looking for a Custom Military Figurine?

If you’re interested in commissioning a bespoke Tank or another military vehicle in cold cast bronze, get in touch. We specialise in high-detail masters, professional mould making, and limited edition collectible production.

Historic armour. Precision craft. Bronze permanence.