Best Axial Rock Crawler in 2024
What is the Best Axial Rock Crawler?
RC crawlers are a ton of fun. There's something about conquering mountains and hills with a miniature car that just makes you feel like a kid again. If you're looking for the best RC car to take on your next adventure, read on for our review of the Axial Rock Crawlers. With their powerful engine, true-to-scale design and rugged construction, these cars are sure to handle whatever you throw their way!
2021 and 2022 were very rich in Axial new stunning RC trucks! Here is a quick overview of the best new Axial crawlers in case you have missed some of them.
Best Axial RC Rock Crawlers NEW Releases!
These new RC trucks are already available for purchase, no preorder!
- RTR. For 14 +
- 4WS. Spektrum™ DX3™ transmitter features exclusive DSMR® technology for superior range, response, and interference resistance
- Features front and rear steer to make it super capable on the rocks. Steer axles at both ends of this Capra™ for the enhanced maneuverability of 4-wheel steering
- RTR. For 14 + 4WD.
- Dynamite 88T 030 Brushed Electric Motor,
- The wheelbase lengthened by 22mm to increase stability and enabling the vehicle to muscle more easily over big challenges
- RTR. For 14 +
- 4WD. Axial® 35T motor. Built-in 4-Channel DSMR® Receiver. Integrated SMART Technology
- Scale realism is unprecedented: polycarbonate Bronco body with a molded tube cage with functional tube doors and hidden body mounts, fender flares and rock sliders. Authentic exterior details: hood scoop, license plates, windshield wipers, and LED headlights and taillights. Interior details: molded seats, dashboard, shifter, foot pedals, and a steering wheel with column. Under the hood, a replica 5.0L V8 engine, transmission housing, and transfer case.
- RTR. For 15 +
- 4WD, SPEKTRUM™ 1200KV SENSORED BRUSHLESS MOTOR, 3-LINK FRONT/4-LINK REAR SUSPENSION, BFGOODRICH® KM3 TIRES, JEEP® JLU WRANGLER SCALE BODY
- Excellent grip and ground clearance to conquer dirt, rocks, and all other off-road surface
1/24 Scale Axial RC Rock Crawlers
Axial Mini Crawlers on SCX24 chassis are ideal for indoor use, but thanks to their excellent performance, you can also race outdoors. Even beginners will cope with difficult climbs and challenging trails. Like its larger SCX10 cousin, the SCX24 has many steel components, from the C-frame beams to the front and rear axles and half-axles. The SCX24 has the simple equipment and appearance of a full-scale truck, and demonstrates confident handling in harsh tests.
The realistic chassis features 3-lever front and 4-lever rear suspension. The combination of spring-hydraulic shock absorbers and sturdy plastic suspension mounts are as good as the big Axial models. Ground clearance is increased by worm-gear axles, and a low transmission ratio reduces the torsional effect of the suspension.
- RTR. For 14 +
- 4WD. Dynamite 88T 030 Brushed Electric Motor
- The wheelbase lengthened by 22mm to increase stability and enabling the vehicle to muscle more easily over big challenges
- RTR. For 14 +
- 4WD. Dynamite 88T 030 Brushed Electric Motor
- The wheelbase lengthened by 22mm to increase stability and enabling the vehicle to muscle more easily over big challenges
- RTR. For 14 +
- 4WD. Dynamite 88T 030 Brushed electric motor. Axial AE-6 ESC/Receiver Combo.
- Axial AX-4 2.4GHz, 3-channel radio system. Dynamite 350mAh 2S LiPo 7.4V battery pack
- RTR. For 14 +
- 4WD. Dynamite 88T 030 Brushed electric motor. Axial AE-6 ESC/Receiver Combo.
- Axial AX-4 2.4GHz, 3-channel radio system. Dynamite 350mAh 2S LiPo 7.4V battery pack
- RTR. For 14 +
- 4WD, Dynamite 88T 030 brush electric motor. Realistic high strength C-Channel, Chassis Frame made of durable steel with cross braces for reinforcement
- Tactic 3-Kanal 2,4Ghz. Tactic TTX200 Trasmitter
- RTR. For 14 +
- 4WD, Dynamite 88T 030 brush electric motor. Realistic high strength C-Channel, Chassis Frame made of durable steel with cross braces for reinforcement
- Tactic 3-Kanal 2,4Ghz. Tactic TTX200 Trasmitter
- RTR. For 14 +
- 4WD. Dynamite™ 88T brushed electric motor. Additional suspension links to adjust wheelbase length. Waterproof electronics
- 2.4GHz 3-channel radio system. Jeep® Wrangler JLU CRC realistic look. Licensed KMC Machete wheels and Nitto Trail Grappler tires.
- RTR. For 14 +
- 4WD. Dynamite™ 88T brushed electric motor. Additional suspension links to adjust wheelbase length. Waterproof electronics
- 2.4GHz 3-channel radio system. Jeep® Wrangler JLU CRC realistic look. Licensed KMC Machete wheels and Nitto Trail Grappler tires.
1/10 Scale Axial RC Rock Crawlers
Capra
The Axial Capra buggy will be appreciated by sophisticated enthusiasts! The truck is equipped with a new transmission that allows you to switch from all-wheel drive to front-wheel drive directly with your 3-channel transmitter. Currie F9 portal axles provide extra ground clearance relative to the lower point of the differential housing. Rear axle locking provides tighter radius cornering. The chassis of the car is made of truss tubes for more realism and optimized geometry. The three-piece Bedlock sport off-road alloy wheels are compatible with all 1.9" tires. To become a leader in the Trial Buggy class, choose Axial Capra!
SCX10
For the past 10 years, the SCX10™ has become a staple platform for large-scale trail enthusiasts around the world. Axial was one of the first companies to get involved in rock climbing, and the first to mass produce trailer trucks. Axial follows trends, tirelessly testing and experimenting to create the next evolution of the SCX10™. The SCX10™ III is the culmination of years of development, promoting aesthetic realism and maximizing trail performance.
1/6 Scale Axial RC Rock Crawlers
Axial has done it again! The SCX6 chassis brings a whole new dimension to RC crawling. Based on the proven SCX10 III chassis, the SCX6 is perfect for anyone who wants to experience realistic Jeep® action. Featuring a fully licensed Jeep body and Rubicon trim, the SCX6 is ready to tackle any terrain you can dream up. And with its powerful brushed motor and all-metal gears, it's sure to handle whatever you throw its way. So if you're looking for an epic RC crawling experience, be sure to check out the Axial SCX6 Jeep JLU Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon!
Detailed Overview
Let's look at some cars more in detail.
The Axial Capra 1.9 Unlimited Trail Buggy is now available in a new version that gives crawling enthusiasts an even more realistic and effective way to maneuver! Out of the box, this ready-to run vehicle features front steer axles for super capability on rocks as well as rear wheel drive capabilities with full third channel button functionality which allows you control over where your truck goes by turning just one switch. 4WS is the main difference of the new upgraded model.
- Four Wheel Steering system is absolutely perfect for climbing and trailing almost anywhere
- Easy to set up and use
- Durable tires
- Double check the front LED lights, as they may come defective
For those who want an intense experience off-road or climb rocks like a pro but are hesitant to risk it on life-size cars, an Axial Capra RC Rock Crawler is the perfect fit for you! A handy yet powerful toy that you can buy as RTR that you can upgrade or unassembled that you can customize.
Riding on 1.9 tires licensed to Raceline, it features a secured grip on off-road trails with dirt and rocks. A gift to an adventurous soul with a universal joint that allows up to 45-degrees of steering for a smoother and high-performance ride. With LED light already installed in the two clear plastic headlights and light buckets, drive off even in low-light obstacles. This RC Rock Crawler car comes in ready to ride (RTR) and unassembled (Kit).
- Equipped with a 2.4GHZ Radio Control that has extended range coverage and interference-free performance, it’s now easier to maneuver your rock crawler.
- The Currie F9 portal axles provide extra ground clearance at the diff pumpkin. Just what you need for a more realistic experience.
- Quick switch between 4WD and FWD locking the rear axle for a tighter turning of front-drive power. The right feature to do some exploring on high rocks and off-road.
- RTR units have you spend all-in for parts that may not suit your skills and like on radio control rock crawlers
The Axial SCX10 III Early Ford Bronco RC Rock Crawler is the most detailed RC car Axial has ever produced. It's a perfect choice for brand new scalers, experienced rock crawling enthusiasts, and everyone in-between. Inside and out, the scale realism is unprecedented. The Axial SCX10 III Early Ford Bronco RC Rock Crawler includes the key components that have made the SCX10 III platform a success, and adds features never before found in an Axial RTR. Thanks to its innovative design, the Axial SCX10 III Early Ford Bronco RC Rock Crawler is able to conquer any terrain, making it the perfect choice for your next off-road adventure.
Pros:
- Officially licensed Early Ford Bronco body with realistic, molded tube cage
- Spektrum servo, receiver and ESC are waterproof
- The design prevents damages caused by the vibration
- Great interior
Cons:
- The top body a little overloaded influencing the falling overs at inclinations
The Axial SCX24 Jeep Gladiator RC Rock Crawler is the newest model available on the market. This RC rock crawler is a full-size, 1/24 scale replica of the 2020 North American Truck of the Year. It is fully assembled and ready-to-run, making it the perfect choice for anyone who wants to experience the thrill of RC crawling without any previous experience. The Axial SCX24 Jeep Gladiator is built on the proven Axial SCX24 chassis, so even the most dedicated RC crawling fan will be proud to have it in their lineup. And serious scale hobbyists will be excited to find that the SCX24 Jeep Gladiator not only looks great but performs well, too. With its NEW 2022 design.
Pros:
- Longer wheelbase positively influences driving capabilities
- Smooth and quiet transmission
- Officially licensed Nitto Trail Grappler M/T tires
- Detailed Jeep Gladiator body and interior
Cons:
- The battery may be defect
Not so long ago, the off-road market was divided into two camps: those preferring scale and realism, and the others – preferring climbing ability. Radio-controlled crawler Axial SCX24 2019 Jeep Wrangler was the solution for the first and second, as its small and detailed design does not stop the truck from overcoming the most incredible obstacles.The engineers of Axial SCX24 2019 Jeep Wrangler RC Rock Crawler managed to pull the greatest potential from its compact size! Now you can have fun at the office desk, living room or outdoors alike. You can choose between two colors: yellow and white. Two bright LED lights are included and are mounted in the front bumper. The truck is ready to run straight from the box, as even batteries for the transmitter, and a LiPo battery pack and USB charger are included.
Pros:
- Hinged body system for easy access to on-board components, like batteries etc
- Officially licensed KMC XD Machete wheels which are unpackable in the off-road world.
- The design prevents damages caused by the vibration
- Great suspension flexibility
Cons:
- The battery may be defect
In 1/6 scale the model is ready to run. SCX6 Jeep JLU Wrangler 4WD offers a fresh dimension in RC climbing as Axial engineers have done it well. No matter if you're a fan the full-sized Jeep vehicles and rock crawling, huge-scale models, or any mentioned above, you'll surely be awed by the high level of details and high-performance features that are available in this.
SCX6 Jeep JLU Wrangler 4WD is a step up in the Axial scaling. Based on the tested SCX10 III and the SCX6 chassis could be regarded as its big brother. It's designed to provide extreme durability and performance using AR90 axles. For the best control, the frame comes with three links Panhard front and rear suspension system with four links. The transmission has high and low gears straight out of the box, and comes with an Spektrum S614 Metal-Gear Servo that is fitted for the two-speed linkage.
The 1/6 scale gives more space for stunning details however, the SCX6 Jeep JLU Wrangler still easily fits in the back of your vehicle and also the majority of hike trails and rock paths are full of interesting obstacles to conquer. When you travel on the trail, it's easy to marvel how you can see how well the Jeep JLU Wrangler body replicates its larger counterpart. Even the toughest Jeep enthusiasts will be impressed by the precision of the details that are molded into. LEDs provide an even more realistic appearance.
Pros:
- The included Spektrum™ DX3™ radio features exclusive DSMR® technology for superior range, response, and interference resistance
- Battery trays adjust to fit a wide range of battery sizes
- Excellent crawling abilities
- Durable materials
Cons:
- Yet available only in two colors
Kit
- The kit is perfect for advanced RC rock crawler drivers. The power to customize the radio system, steering servo, tires, and paint for the body to your style and use. A dream comes true for hobbyists and enthusiasts!
- Choosing what portal axles to install, you have the option to improve your ground clearance for high-performance climbing. Take the liberty to upgrade your crawler for in-depth and highly precise controls.
- This customizable RC rock crawler is highly durable and ready to fit for upgrades, not giving you a hard time finding its original parts. Customize in interior and exterior design and power in speed and control!
- The unassembled kit is not suitable for beginners that have a little idea on which parts to purchase for building.
Buyer’s Guide
Hobbyists and enthusiasts have encountered challenges in surpassing tough terrains with rocky formation and other obstacles like dry river beds, steep hills, and indoor/outdoor obstacles. There is a list of things to consider for your first crawler to suit your driving skills and style perfectly.
The best AXIAL Rock Crawler is not the cheapest hobby to build, that’s why we’ve listed important things to consider when buying. Are you ready for your first purchase?
What To Consider Buying Axial RC Crawlers
Size
RC rock crawlers come in various sizes depending on what obstacles you’ll have it ride. The most popular sizes are 1/10 and 1/8 which are great for outdoor and challenging obstacles. They design these crawlers with more ground clearance to avoid getting stuck in trails or worse, damaged. The suspension in these crawler sizes has quick response shocks to maximize wheel capacity when climbing. Other sizes also come in 1/16 and 1/5 which are fairly small for typical outdoor obstacles. These types of crawler sizes have limited ground clearance, which makes it fit for indoor obstacle courses.
Steering
Most rock crawlers come as ready-to-run, but it is recommended to have your steering be upgraded to run gigantic wheels in confined spaces. Four-wheel steering (4WS) provides modes to steer both front and rear wheels, allowing you to execute challenging turns and maneuvers in trail obstacles.
Style
More than its features, it is best to have an RC rock crawler that represents your style as the driver. Outdoor hobbyists and enthusiasts may need waterproof electronics and all-metal gears for a fun-filled experience even with water and mud. Indoor hobbyists may focus more on showcasing the style of both interior and exterior parts.
Control Range
Consider getting an RC rock crawler with a wide control range for full performance even at a decent distance. A 30-meter control range is already considered pretty good.
Budget
To increase the performance of a best AXIAL Rock Crawler, you will need upgrades for performance improvement and to sustain power. The more you install upgrades, the more you need batteries to power and maximize its performance. They do not sell most crawlers with batteries, which require you to spend on it. It would be recommended to purchase extra batteries to extend the driving experience, especially when you’re on outdoor trails. Batteries also require chargers. A faster charger is a lifesaver, most especially on shows and races. You cannot have your RC rock crawler die on you while in the heat to get that gold.
Durability
The best axial Rock Crawler challenges obstacles, that’s why you need to consider purchasing units that are made of high-quality parts. You might be on a budget but it is cheaper to purchase an RC rock crawler with trusted features than to spend money for repairs or worse, replacements constantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the top speed of the RC rock crawlers?
The speed of the crawlers somehow depends on its battery power. It could roughly go from 8 to 15 mph depending on part upgrades. The rock crawler is not meant for speed.
What battery should I buy?
It is recommended to check first the dimensions of the battery compartment for battery size. Consider buying high capacity batteries if you’re more interested to ride outdoors. Most ready-to-run crawlers don’t come with a battery and charger. But you can always find the needed battery model mentioned in the specification.
Is RC Rock Crawler waterproof?
They design not all crawlers to be waterproof. Always check the item features for waterproof design. We recommend waterproof design for hobbyists and enthusiasts who wish to tackle challenging obstacles outdoors.
How much should I spend on RC Rock Crawlers?
The price increases as the features are upgraded. If you are a starting hobbyist, we recommend it to start with low-priced crawlers that have the flexibility for an upgrade when you’ve improved your driving.
Axial RC Rock Crawlers provide a sense of entertainment for people of all ages. Kids find joy in playing trucks dreaming of one day owning one. Adults also just don’t outgrow the love of fast and powerful toy cars. Therefore Axial is not a cheap product.
More than its exterior style, RC rock crawlers are also made to be tough that allows you to drive off for a beating through hard terrains and crazy big rocks. No need to worry about it breaking down! You can also upgrade its parts for a better performance suitable to your liking.
Summary
Axial Rock Crawlers cater to newbies and experts. They are designed each to suit skills and style in driving. You can purchase a ready-to-run unit when you’re just starting, and an unassembled unit for better upgrades as an advanced treat.
If your budget allows you might not still contemplate which crawler to buy, but you already have to buy an Axial one! Make your dream come true to drive through rough rock terrains and off-road with your very own best Axial Rock Crawler!