When it comes to an RC Rock Crawler, There comes a promise to provide you with the endless enjoyment of climbing rocks, mountains, and otherwise un-mountable surfaces with ease. When you need to take on an unusual terrain, the very last thing on your mind is how fast you are going to get over or through that terrain.

What is Rock Crawling?

Rock crawling is an off-road extreme type of driving. The areas and locations for this driving include mountain foothills, mountain trails, rock piles, boulders and more. The vehicles used for this style of driving can be anywhere from stock to highly modified, in order to overcome obstacles. These rock crawling vehicles are the four-wheel drive to help aid in the very harsh terrain they drive over. Rock Crawlers have lower gear ratios to help them to drive more slowly over obstacles and provide tons of power to conquer the climb.

What is an RC Rock Crawler?

An RC Rock Crawler is a kind of remote-controlled vehicle that, as its name suggests, is built for rock crawling. They are designed to scale rocks, climb obstacles and tackle the harsh, uneven terrain. Although their abilities are not limited to this alone, they move at slower (crawling) speeds, No matter what kind of terrain they are on. Unlike most other RC vehicle types, they are hardly suitable for racing.

Making Your Decision

When you’re ready to buy, there are a lot of RC vehicle types available for sale. There are a few things to consider when looking to buy an RC Crawler. The crawler has ready to run (RTR) versions which have a huge number of cool design configurations. Then, there is also the crawler kits. These crawler kits do require assembly that provides an exciting experience while doing so. Sure the kits are not as easy and quick to get out and run. These crawler kits give the excitement of building your own RC crawler. The crawler kits are as much fun to construct as they are to take off-road. The decision for which kind of crawler to buy may not be so easy to make.

In order to make the best choice, the very first thing you should know before you purchase should be whether you are looking to buy a Hobby grade vehicle or something more for a beginner. These advanced models feature different qualities that should also be put into consideration when looking for one of these vehicles. The Toy crawlers do not nearly compare to these advanced features, so if you are looking for a vehicle that can overcome terrain, obstacles, and challenges, then it is probably time to buy the best RC crawler (hobby grade) that you can find within your budget.

 A ready to run Crawler would be a better choice for beginners, due to the fact that, they can handle a few more accidents and collisions. However, an experienced driver would pick an Electric Hobby Grade Crawler or a Nitro RC rock crawler because of the independence that they offer.

When Your Ready To Buy

The first thing you need to consider is the Purpose for which you plan to use your vehicle.
RC Rock Crawlers aren’t meant to race or run fast. They are best enjoyed on rocky terrains or even the backyard, in a more laid-back fashion. “If” that is not the type of driving you are looking to do then, You will want to look at other types of RC cars.

The next thing to consider is, Your Budget
This should be in the top of your mind when thinking of purchasing an RC crawler. Depending on whether they are RTR or a crawler kit, they may be a little on the pricey side. Toy crawlers for kids are not as expensive as Hobby Grade Crawlers. They also aren’t near as durable and parts are not as readily available. Hobby Grade Crawlers are more expensive, but you get a lot more for the money. The replacement parts and upgrade parts are usually always available, they are far more durable and versatile and the support is always better should you ever need. So it is important that you do not go looking blind and you know your budget.

The last thing to consider is, Expertise
Driving and maneuvering a crawler can be harder than you think. For that reason, another factor that should be a top priority when making your decision for a crawler should be whether you are a beginner in the RC world. “If” you’re new to RCs, then you probably will want to look for a crawler for beginners. For experienced drivers, you will most likely be looking for a hobby grade RC crawler. Either way, knowing your level of experience will help you narrow down what type of vehicle you should be searching for.

After much research, I have made a list of the 4 top RC Rock Crawlers, below I have listed some of the best crawlers available,

1) Redcat Racing Everest 10

Redcat Racing’s Everest 10 is the eye candy of rock crawlers and comes ready to hit the rocks right out of the box.

This 1/10 scale crawler packs a kick when it comes to navigating uneven and harsh terrains. It is equipped With oil filled shocks, bead-lock crawling tires and a full set of ball bearings.

The boulder bashing, rock crushing 4wd power of the Everest 10 will not disappoint beginners or experienced drivers alike. This crawler features a similar body to an earlier model and the ability to conform to various angles regardless of terrain, the crawler proves its money’s worth with ease.

One of the best features with the Everest 10 is the fact that, it comes with waterproof electronics. This lets you take this crawler really anywhere safely regardless of the weather conditions. Interested in this crawler

Product Specs:

Manufacturer: Redcat Racing

Name: Redcat Racing Everest-10

Color: Blue

Product Dimensions: 18.2 ×10.5×7.9 Inches

Wheelbase: 12.7 Inches

Weight: 8.6 Pounds

Ground Clearance: 3.2 Inches

Gear Ratio: 1.48:1

Assembly Required?: No

Recommended Age: 14 years and Up 

 Pros:                                                                                                                                                                    The crawler features an impressive design with sports graphics that give it a little shine.                Its construction is upgradeable or modifiable.                                                                                Waterproof electronics.                                                                                                                                    Its chassis is shock resistant because of its suspension.

Cons:                                                                                                                                                                    No AA batteries are included. Requires 8 for the transmitter.                                                                          Its parts are plastic, where aluminum would be better preferred.

 

2) Team Losi Night 2.0 RTR (Most Durable)

When you are driving the Losi night crawler 2.0 rock crawler almost nothing can stand in your way. Enjoy conquering the unforgiving terrains that other RC vehicles can not even think about touching.

If you are serious about doing some crawling, You will want a durable RC crawler that is built to last. The Losi Night 2.0 is that crawler you are looking for. A primary concern most have with crawlers is finding RC crawlers with electronics that are compatible with LiPo batteries. Well, with the Night Crawler you shouldn’t have to worry too much, its programming is so unique that its Electronic speed controller is suitable for LiPo batteries, as well as it features both a solid axle and a worm-gear drive.

Team Losi did not stop there, they took it a step further and slapped on some adjustable LED lights so that crawling activities will not be hindered come nightfall. The Losi Night Crawler uses a powerful 35T motor. Losi somehow managed to cram all that technological stuff into a remarkable chassis that comes shockproof. The biggest challenge of driving this Losi, Is finding that scenario it can’t handle.

The Nightcrawler comes pre-assembled and almost ready to run, You need to pick up a battery and charger, it is probably one of the most advanced RTR models available today. When you slap in some batteries you would be ready for some action. Interested In This Losi?

Product Specs:

Manufacturer: Team Losi Night

Name Team Losi Night 2.0 RTR

Color: Red

Product Dimensions: 25 ×13.5×9.3Inches

Weight: 5 Pounds

Assembly Required?: No

Recommended Age: 14 years and Up

 Pros:                                                                                                                                                                    Its battery tray is very easily accessible, This makes modifications a simple process.                          To prevent wear and tear, it is equipped with twin aluminum plate chassis.                                  Comes with waterproof electronics.

Cons:                                                                                                                                                          Batteries and charger are sold separately and do not come included.                                              There isn’t a lot of support from Team Losi for this crawler.

 

3) Axial SCX10 II Jeep Cherokee 4WD Rock Crawler

The Axial SCX10 2000 Jeep Cherokee all-terrain vehicle kit is a superior 1/10 scale mix of exceptional engineering and realism. The SCX10 sports a first in its class AR44 Hi pinion axle that provides increased durability and ground clearance, Which also improves driveshaft angles. Using universal joint axles allow up to 45 degrees of steering and an 8-degree kingpin angle to help maximize efficiency.

Axial SCX10 II Provides scale looks with its signature all-metal twin c-channel frame, Solid performing transmission and axles for so realism and capabilities to match. The high pinion design allows for increased gear surface contact for increased durability. Single piece axle housing for added strength and a 1 piece all-metal front and rear locker.

The SCX10 II transfer case design helps the driveshaft’s to stay centered and as low as possible in the chassis. The all-metal internal gears give it the strength and durability to make it a top contender. To get this vehicle click here.

SCX10 II Specs:

Length: 22.1″

Width: 8.9″

Height: 10.5″

Wheelbase: 12.3″ can be adjustable with optional link kits, These are sold separately.

Ground Clearance: 3.0″

Weight: 4.5lbs

The pros and cons of the SCX10 II,

Recommended age: 14 years and up

Pros: Durable Construction, Great Trail Performance, Choice of body styles (3), High Power, Reliable and efficient, Easy to use and control

Cons: Batteries and charger must be purchased separately, Transmitter uses AA batteries instead of rechargeable, Stiff ride until the suspension is broken in, Not fully waterproofed

 

4) Traxxas TRX-4 Ford Bronco Scale & Trail Crawler

Traxxas honors the classic 1979 Ford Bronco with this beautifully detailed and faithful reproduction mounted on the incredibly capable to-4 chassis featuring, the gorgeous sunset or red graphics. The TRX-4’s extreme off-road capability lies in the technology beneath its rugged exterior.

The TRX-4 Bronco features a rock crawling clearance with relatively normal tires and an adjustable wheelbase. The Traxxas Bronco rides on a steel ladder frame chassis. A shaft driven four wheel drive system gives the bronco its off-road capability. Differentials on this BadBoy have four gears that lock remotely and there is two speed, high and low transmission gear to achieve your off-road destiny. To get the TRX-4 Bronco click here.

Bronco Specs:

Length: 20.57 inches

Front Track: 9.78 inches

Rear Track: 9.78 inches

Ground Clearance: 3.14 inches

Height: 10.47 inches.

Weight: 6.42lbs.

Wheelbase: 12.28 inches

Pros: Large battery tray can accommodate different types of battery packs, Handling is incredibly smooth, Comes with easy to read and follow owners manual,

Cons: Comes with standard body clips, which can bend or loosen and fall out, Doesn’t come with battery and charger, Shocks are a bit short, which gives it limited articulation

As you can see there are many different crawlers and options available. Hopefully, this article helps you make the most informed decision for your RC Rock Crawler.

What are your thoughts on Rock Crawlers? Leave a comment, I would like to hear your opinions!