Top 5 RC Crawlers for Beginners – Start Your Crawling Adventure

Getting into RC crawling is one of the most rewarding parts of the hobby. Instead of chasing top speed, crawling is about precision driving, climbing obstacles, and trail adventures. But if you’re just starting out, the number of choices can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the Top 5 RC Crawlers for Beginners—all available at The Thing Shop in Atlantic Canada.

1. Axial SCX24 (1/24 Scale Mini Crawler)

The Axial SCX24 is the most popular beginner crawler in the world. Small enough to run indoors yet capable on outdoor terrain, it’s affordable, portable, and packed with scale detail.

👉 Perfect for: New hobbyists, indoor courses, and anyone who wants a budget-friendly entry into crawling.

2. Axial AX24 (1/24 Scale with 4WS)

If you want more challenge and control, the AX24 takes mini crawling to the next level with four-wheel steering (4WS). That means tighter turns, crab-walking over obstacles, and crazy articulation.

👉 Perfect for: Beginners who want to learn advanced crawling techniques early on.

3. Traxxas TRX-M (1/18 Scale Crawler)

The Traxxas TRX-M is a compact version of the legendary TRX-4 platform. It’s portable, durable, and delivers true trail performance in a smaller package—making it great for both newcomers and seasoned hobbyists.

👉 Perfect for: Beginner crawlers who want Traxxas quality in a small, easy-to-run package.

4. Axial SCX10 III Base Camp (1/10 Scale)

The SCX10 III Base Camp is built on Axial’s proven 1/10 crawler platform, but simplified for beginners—no dig units, no 2-speed transmission, just pure crawling performance. It’s rugged, capable, and a fantastic starting point for those ready to go full-scale.

👉 Perfect for: Beginners who want a serious crawler platform with upgrade potential.

5. Traxxas TRX-4 Sport (1/10 Scale)

The Traxxas TRX-4 Sport trims down the TRX-4 platform to focus purely on crawling performance. With portal axles, extreme ground clearance, and the legendary TRX durability, it’s a great way for beginners to experience top-tier crawling without extra complexity.

👉 Perfect for: New drivers who want a rugged, out-of-the-box trail truck that can handle anything.

Final Thoughts: Which Crawler Should You Choose?

• Budget-friendly, indoor/outdoor fun? → Axial SCX24

• Want advanced features in mini scale? → Axial AX24

• Compact but capable? → Traxxas TRX-M

• Trail-ready full-scale platform? → Axial SCX10 III Base Camp

• Big crawler with simple performance? → Traxxas TRX-4 Sport

No matter which you choose, these crawlers all provide an easy entry point into the RC crawling world.

👉 Visit The Thing Shop today to explore our full selection of RC crawlers, parts, and upgrades—and we’ll help you find the perfect rig to start your adventure.