One of the most enjoyable activities with any remote control (RC) vehicle is to push it to its limits. This is never more true than with RC bashers.
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These hardy vehicles are designed to navigate difficult ground, do jumps and flips, and stay intact even after crashes. They allow you to live out your best monster truck fantasies, but on a small scale.
In this RC basher review guide, we break down all the best RC bashers on the market in 2020. We include many different types, including monster trucks, 4X4, and buggies. We discuss all the pros and cons of each option so you can find the best basher RC for your budget.
We also address some common questions about bashers. By the end of this guide, you will know everything important about these fun and durable vehicles. So, let’s get into it!
The Best RC Bashers
We will now get into the most important part of this article: the reviews of the best RC bashers. We make sure to cover all the advantages and disadvantages of each model, so you can find the one best suited to your style of play.
1. ARRMA RC Monster Truck – Best Overall
Quick Specs:
- Type: Monster truck
- Weight: 8.6 pounds (3.9kg)
- Size: 16.5 inches (41.9cm)
The ARRMA RC Monster Truck is made to a 1:10 scale. This battery-powered unit is our pick for the overall best basher RC truck.
Product Specifications
The ARRMA RC Monster Truck has a design that supports intense, off-road bashing. This includes double-wishbone suspension with spring-loaded shocks at the front and rear of the truck, which stabilizes the vehicle even on bumpy ground.
It also has oversized, monster-truck style wheels with heavy-duty tires. This allows the vehicle to get grip on all surfaces, including grass, dirt, and sand. This is paired with heavy-duty construction that includes an integrated 3-in-1 unit with secure connections.
You can power the RC basher with different battery options. It includes a NiMH battery, which gives up to 8 minutes of continuous runtime at 20mi/h (32km/h). You can also use LiPo batteries without an adapter to extend runtime and play for longer.
All of these factors allow the ARRMA RC Monster Truck to handle heavy play without serious breakage. It’s also suitable for beginners because of simple controls that can fit any size of hand.
The only drawbacks of this unit relate to the servo gears and the batteries. The gears are plastic and therefore can break if you engage in heavy play. Some users have also reported issues with trying and failing to use lithium-ion batteries.
- It supports both NiMH and LiPo power sources which leads to a longer run time.
- It has superior suspension to allow better handling.
- The truck has a durable design.
- It’s suitable for beginners.
- The servo gears are plastic and breakable.
- There are some problems with battery compatibility.
Buying Advice
If you’re looking for a durable and fun RC basher with a monster truck design, you can’t go wrong with the ARRMA RC Monster Truck. It allows you to live out your monster truck fantasies from the comfort of your backyard.
2. ARRMA ⅛ TYPHON Mega 4X4 RC Speed Buggy – Best Speed Buggy Basher
Quick Specs:
- Type: Speed buggy 4WD
- Weight: 10.8 pounds (4.9kg)
- Size: 20.1 inches (51.1cm)
The ARRMA TYPHON Mega 4X4 RC Speed Buggy is a 1:8 scale replica of a four-wheel drive buggy. It is simultaneously fast and durable, allowing you flexibility over your playstyle.
Product Specifications
The main selling point of the ARRMA Speed Buggy is its powerful and speedy motor. It features a 12T Brushed 550 motor that is powered by a rechargeable NiMH battery pack. At maximum speeds, the basher RC car can reach an impressive 30mi/h (48km/h).
It can handle any kind of terrain with waterproof parts and durable construction. The buggy has multiple throttle functions and true 4WD transmission with powerful driveshafts. Equipped with heavy-duty shocks, it can take jumps at speed without destabilizing the vehicle.
It has a low center of gravity and a wide frame that keep it upright during bashing. The narrow tyres can speed around corners and reach the ultimate speed that this buggy is designed for.
One of the main benefits of the ARRMA Speed Buggy is that it has a modular design. You can easily access the chassis, which is essential for maintenance and replacing parts. This allows you to upgrade the buggy as needed.
Some users have complained that the buggy dips forwards during big jumps. This can be a problem because it can smash the front of the vehicle and damage it. You might want to consider focusing on speed rather than big jumps with this RC basher.
The basher is also in the higher price range. It is worth the investment, but might not be a good option if you want to stick to a budget.
- It can get up to 30mi/h (48km/h) from its 12T Brushed 550 motor.
- It has true 4WD and waterproof parts that can handle any difficult terrain.
- The buggy is durable and easy to upgrade.
- The front of the vehicle drops during big jumps.
- It is more expensive than other RC bashers.
Buying Advice
If you’re looking to invest in an RC basher with serious speed, you should consider the ARRMA TYPHON Mega 4X4 RC Speed Buggy. It leaves the competition in the dust.
3. Fistone RC Car High-Speed Spinning Stunt Car – Best Budget Basher
Quick Specs:
- Type: Stunt car
- Weight: 1.5 pounds (0.7kg)
- Size: 10.7 inches (27.2cm)
The Fistone RC Stunt Car has a unique design that is optimal for both water and land. It looks different to any other RC basher in this collection and is also a great budget choice.
Product Specifications
The Fistone RC Stunt Car has an amphibious design that can handle all kinds of terrain, including land, water, and snow. It has waterproof parts and a sealed battery that allows you to play with the stunt car in water. It also has oversized, rubber tyres that can gain traction on wet surfaces.
The main benefit of this basher is the amount of stunts that it can perform. It can do a full 360 degree flip, do tumbles, and move forwards and backwards. The RC stunt car can travel up to 9mi/h (15km/h). This allows you to speed around and make your vehicle jump everywhere.
The main drawback of this basher is that some parts are breakable. It is made of plastic and some users have reported that parts can snap off after big jumps. However, considering how affordable the basher is, it’s still great value for money.
- It can easily drive in water and on land.
- It is budget-friendly.
- The car can perform many stunts and tricks.
- The plastic construction is breakable.
Buying Advice
If you’re looking for value for money and a stunt-friendly basher, you should consider the Fistone RC Stunt Car. It is an RC mini basher that can handle any terrain, whether wet or dry.
4. Axial Wraith Spawn 4WD RC Rock Racer – Best 4WD Basher
Quick Specs:
- Type: 4WD basher
- Weight: 5.5 pounds (2.5kg)
- Size: 24.5 inches (62.2cm)
The Axial Wraith Spawn 4WD RC Rock Racer has a 1:10 scale. It’s also our pick for the best basher RC 4X4.
Product Specifications
The Axial Wraith RC Rock Racer has a design that can withstand heavy bashing in any environment. The frame chassis and axle are made from high strength composite that prevents the vehicle from breaking or snapping under pressure.
It can navigate any surface with its 4WD and high-traction tyres. It is like a true 4X4 that can speed and jump over hills, rocks, and uneven ground. The reinforced suspension helps the RC basher to avoid axle steer and torque twist during heavy use.
This basher can run off either LiPo or NiMH batteries. The transmitter has sophisticated controls that allow you to control steering, throttle, and take full control over the basher.
Our only criticism is the price. While the basher is excellent quality, it’s not suitable if you’re looking for a budget option.
- It has a superior tyre design with excellent grip on uneven surfaces.
- It is made from high strength composite, which protects the vehicle from damage.
- It has true 4WD and superior suspension for excellent handling.
- It is an expensive investment.
Buying Advice
If you’re looking to invest in a high quality 4WD basher, you can’t go wrong with the Axial Wraith Spawn RC Rock Racer. It is worth every penny for its durable design and superior handling.
5. Redcat Racing Blackout XTE Monster Truck – Best Basher Monster Truck
Quick Specs:
- Type: Monster truck
- Weight: 8 pounds (3.6kg)
- Size: 17.5 inches (44.5cm)
The Redcat Racing Blackout XTE Monster Truck has a 1:10 scale. It is also our pick for the best basher monster truck.
Product Specifications
The Redcat Racing truck has a ‘bashable’ design that can withstand rough play. It has a reinforced chassis, sturdy ball bearings, shocks, and other strong parts. The suspension is also adjustable so you can handle any surface.
This basher has true 4WD and waterproof components. This means you can take it over any terrain, including water, sand, and dirt. The powerful 16T RC550 electric brushed motor allows the basher to pick up some serious speed.
The parts are interchangeable, so you can switch them out if they break. This is essential for a basher because rough bashing can cause a lot of damage. However, this RC basher needs a lot of upkeep and maintenance. Some users have reported that the parts are too breakable and need to be switched frequently.
- It has a reinforced chassis that can withstand high impact.
- It has interchangeable parts that you can switch after heavy bashing.
- It has true 4WD and can handle any surface.
- It needs a lot of ongoing maintenance.
Buying Advice
If you’re looking for a mid-range RC basher that can handle rough surfaces, you might love the Redcat Racing Blackout XTE Monster Truck.
RC Bashers FAQ
What Is an RC Basher?
RC bashers are remote control vehicles that you use in a freestyle kind of play. You might bash your vehicle against walls or other objects. You may also play with two different bashers in a fighting game with your friends.
Because bashers are used to bounce off other objects, you need to choose a durable model. If the vehicle breaks apart on contact, then it defeats the purpose of bashing. You should look for a basher that has a sturdy construction, strong frame, and even barriers to protect the inner parts from damage.
You also don’t want to invest huge amounts of money in a basher. Because you will be using it without regard for damage, it would be a poor investment to treat an expensive vehicle in this way. That’s why most bashers are on the budget end of the price range.
You should also choose a basher with replaceable parts. It is inevitable that something is going to break. Therefore, you want a model that is common where you live. This will allow you to find new parts and keep playing with your RC basher.
The most common kind of basher looks like a monster truck. This is because real-life monster trucks are extremely durable and used for various tricks. They have large wheels and heavy-duty suspension that protects the vehicle from damage.
Other RC bashers imitate the style of a buggy. These vehicles also have large wheels and a stronger suspension. Overall, this design protects the engine and more breakable parts of the vehicle.
What Is the Difference Between Bashing and Racing?
Bashing and racing are two of the most popular activities with RC vehicles of all kinds. However, there are some distinct differences between these two styles of play.
Racing is a structured form of play. Usually, you have two or more players and the goal is to complete a certain amount of distance in the least amount of time.
There are many clubs that meet to have RC races. These races have stopwatches, judges, and as much structure as a regular car race. The purpose of the race is a competition and there are clear winners and losers.
Bashing is an unstructured form of play. It could look like unofficial races between friends, a solo play in the backyard, or fights between different vehicles. Bashing is more focused on fun and testing the limits of the vehicle.
Some hobbyists see themselves as either racers or bashers. However, you can have fun with both styles of play. Racing can be a good way to prove the capabilities of your vehicle and your control over it. Bashing allows you to explore your creativity and see what your vehicle is capable of.
What Does RC Scale Mean?
RC scale refers to the size of the vehicle. Many RC vehicles have the design of vehicles that exist in the real world, like cars, motorbikes, or monster trucks.
However, obviously the RC model is not the same size as the original vehicles. Many of the models are built to scale. This means that they have the same proportions as the original vehicle but in a smaller form.
For example, a 1:10 basher monster truck is 1/10th of the size of a regular monster truck. However, the size of its wheels relative to the body is comparable to the real-life monster truck.
RC scale is most important for models that imitate real vehicles. It is not as useful for RC bashers or cars that are for children or have unrealistic features.
Does RC 4X4 Actually Have a 4X4 Drive?
RC 4X4 refers to the movement of the vehicle’s wheels. If the RC basher uses all of its four wheels to drive, then it is a true four-wheel drive.
Four-wheel drive is an advantage for bashers because it allows better control on uneven terrain. The control over all of the tyres gives better traction on difficult surfaces. This allows the vehicle to maneuver and stay upright over hills and rocks.
Many 4X4 RC bashers do have true 4X4 drive. They have front and rear transmission, so the two sets of wheels are controlled separately.
This is a huge advantage in bashing. It allows you to push the basher to its limits without flipping the vehicle. You can perform many tricks and stunts, as well as take you basher outside into the world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many great options if you are looking for the best RC bashers in 2020. These options include monster trucks, buggies, 4X4 vehicles, and more. Each of the bashers has its pros and cons, so you should decide carefully before you buy.
The most important factor of a basher is durability. You want a model that can withstand damage and heavy play. You should also look for an RC basher that is affordable and with parts that are easy to replace.
More than anything, you should choose an RC basher that suits your personality. At the end of the day, bashing is all about having fun and exploring your creativity. Happy bashing!
