Traxxas Ford Raptor worth it? Looking for opinions

My local shop just got the Traxxas Ford Raptor back in stock, and I love how it looks. I’m thinking about picking one up, but since it’s a step up in price from my SCX24, I want to make sure it’s worth it.

I’ve read posts here, but most are about upgrades. I’m fine with upgrading later, but for now, I want to know if it’s solid out of the box. Would love to hear any thoughts or advice before I talk to the shop guys.

It’s a solid truck, but it only comes brushed. It’s basically a 2WD Slash with a cool-looking body.

Remington said:
It’s a solid truck, but it only comes brushed. It’s basically a 2WD Slash with a cool-looking body.

Good to know! I’ve had a few friends say the Slash is a good first 1/10 scale truck.

@Bayley
I own 19 RC models, including a 2WD Slash, and it’s one of my favorites. Even with all my other trucks, it stands out.

Remington said:
@Bayley
I own 19 RC models, including a 2WD Slash, and it’s one of my favorites. Even with all my other trucks, it stands out.

That’s awesome! Have you done any upgrades besides motor or battery? I’m curious about mods people recommend.

@Bayley
Traxxas isn’t my thing. They’ve got a history of being overly litigious, even suing over ridiculous stuff. There are better options out there like Losi, Team Associated, and Arrma.

My kid beat up his brushed 2WD Slash for over five years before upgrading to a Maxx. I was so impressed that I bought myself a Slash Ultimate. These trucks are tough and have tons of aftermarket options.

@Clay
That’s great to hear. Thanks for sharing your experience!

It’s built on the Slash platform, so it’s rock-solid. I bought mine in 2020, and it’s still nearly stock with no complaints. Calling it a beginner truck feels like an understatement—I own multiple Losi and Redcat models, and I still love it.

@Ashton
Good to know it’s still enjoyable even after years of use. Thanks!

The Slash is a great truck and honestly a gateway drug into the RC hobby.

Davin said:
The Slash is a great truck and honestly a gateway drug into the RC hobby.

Haha, that’s exactly how I feel about my SCX24. This will probably be my next step.

It’s overpriced. You’re paying extra for the Ford body and a bumper, but under the hood, it’s just a stock brushed Slash.

Morgan said:
It’s overpriced. You’re paying extra for the Ford body and a bumper, but under the hood, it’s just a stock brushed Slash.

That’s fair. Thanks for the honest input.

It’s basically a 2WD Slash with a fancy body and bumper. It’s a good truck overall.

I bought a 2WD Slash this year as my first ‘real’ RC truck, and I love it. It’s fast, durable, and easy to control. Definitely recommend it.

I’ve had a lot of fun with mine. It’s great on light snow and paved surfaces but can struggle in tall grass. It’s fast and handles well for a 2WD truck, but I recommend starting in trainer mode if this is your first fast RC. The body is durable and the runtime is decent (around 15 minutes per battery for me). Overall, it’s a great dirt track or trail truck.

I’d consider saving for the Losi Baja Rey Raptor instead. It’s got a live rear axle and handles really well.

Niko said:
I’d consider saving for the Losi Baja Rey Raptor instead. It’s got a live rear axle and handles really well.

I’m not tied to Traxxas. What do you like about the Losi Raptor?

I’ve got a 2WD Slash and a 2WD Raptor, both running brushless 3S LiPo. They’re durable and have tons of upgrade options. The Raptor body looks awesome too.