Alright, guys, let's dive deep into the Traxxas Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S review. This beast of an RC truck has been making waves in the hobby world, and for good reason. We’re going to break down everything you need to know, from its performance and durability to whether it’s the right choice for you. So, buckle up and get ready for an in-depth look!

Overview of the Traxxas Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S

The Traxxas Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S is essentially the souped-up version of the classic Stampede. It's designed to be faster, tougher, and more versatile. The “VXL” designation means it comes with a brushless motor system, which is a game-changer compared to brushed motors. Brushless motors offer more power, longer run times, and significantly less maintenance. The “3S” refers to the fact that it can handle a 3-cell LiPo battery, unlocking even more speed and torque.

This RC truck is built for bashing, jumping, and tearing up various terrains. Whether you’re hitting the local skate park, bashing in your backyard, or racing on a dirt track, the Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S is engineered to handle it. Its high ground clearance and aggressive tires allow it to conquer obstacles that would leave other RC trucks stranded. Plus, it's known for being relatively durable, which is crucial when you're sending it off jumps or navigating rough terrain. Traxxas has built a solid reputation, and the Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S definitely lives up to that standard. The parts availability is great, meaning you can easily find replacements or upgrades when needed. This makes maintenance and repairs straightforward, ensuring you spend more time driving and less time wrenching. Overall, the Traxxas Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S is a versatile and powerful RC truck that’s designed to deliver a thrilling driving experience, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hobbyist. Its combination of speed, durability, and ease of maintenance makes it a popular choice for anyone looking to get into or upgrade their RC experience. So, if you're looking for a robust and fun RC truck, the Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S is definitely worth considering.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's get into the nitty-gritty details. The key features and specifications of the Traxxas Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S are what set it apart. First off, the Velineon 3500 brushless motor is the heart of this beast. It provides incredible power and efficiency, giving you blistering acceleration and top speeds. The VXL-3s electronic speed control (ESC) is waterproof and can handle various battery types, including NiMH and LiPo. This ESC also features Traxxas' patented Training Mode, which reduces power output by 50%, making it easier for beginners to learn the ropes before unleashing the full potential.

The Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S features full-time four-wheel drive, providing excellent traction and control on any surface. The Revo-Spec differentials are designed to handle the high power output of the brushless motor, ensuring reliable performance. The truck also comes with adjustable oil-filled shocks, allowing you to fine-tune the suspension to suit your driving style and terrain. These shocks absorb impacts and provide a smooth ride, even on rough surfaces. The tough, modular composite chassis is designed to be both lightweight and durable, providing a solid foundation for the truck. It’s engineered to withstand the abuse of hard landings and crashes, protecting the internal components. The Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S also includes waterproof electronics, meaning you can drive it in wet conditions without worrying about damage. This is a huge plus for those who enjoy bashing in all weather conditions. The truck comes with Traxxas High-Current Connector which allows high-capacity battery packs to deliver maximum voltage to the Velineon Brushless Power System. This ensures that you get the most out of your battery and motor, maximizing performance and run time. Overall, the Traxxas Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S is packed with features that make it a top performer. The combination of the powerful brushless motor, durable chassis, and adjustable suspension make it a versatile and capable RC truck that can handle anything you throw at it. These features not only enhance the performance but also contribute to the overall durability and longevity of the truck, making it a great investment for any RC enthusiast.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance and handling, the Traxxas Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S truly shines. The Velineon brushless power system delivers insane acceleration, allowing you to go from 0 to top speed in a matter of seconds. The truck's four-wheel-drive system ensures that you have plenty of traction, even on loose surfaces like dirt, gravel, or sand. This means you can confidently power through obstacles and maintain control at high speeds.

The Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S handles jumps like a champ. The adjustable oil-filled shocks absorb impacts and prevent the truck from bottoming out, allowing you to land smoothly. The high ground clearance also helps when navigating rough terrain, preventing the chassis from scraping on obstacles. On the track, the Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S is surprisingly nimble. The responsive steering and well-balanced chassis make it easy to navigate turns and maintain control. However, it's worth noting that the truck's high center of gravity can make it prone to rollovers, especially on high-speed corners. To mitigate this, you can adjust the suspension and ride height to improve stability. The Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S is also highly customizable, allowing you to fine-tune the performance to your liking. You can experiment with different tires, suspension settings, and gearing options to optimize the truck for specific terrains and driving styles. The TQi 2.4GHz radio system provides precise control and eliminates interference, ensuring a reliable connection between the transmitter and receiver. This allows you to focus on driving without worrying about signal loss or glitches. Overall, the Traxxas Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S delivers an exhilarating driving experience. Its combination of power, traction, and handling makes it a blast to drive on any surface. Whether you're bashing in the backyard, hitting the skate park, or racing on the track, this truck is sure to impress. The responsive steering, adjustable suspension, and customizable options make it a versatile and capable performer that can handle anything you throw at it. So, if you're looking for an RC truck that can deliver both speed and control, the Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S is definitely worth considering.

Durability and Maintenance

Okay, let's talk about durability and maintenance because, let’s face it, nobody wants an RC truck that breaks after a few runs. The Traxxas Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S is known for its ruggedness, but like any RC vehicle, it requires some TLC to keep it running smoothly. The Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S is built with high-quality materials and a robust design. The modular composite chassis is designed to withstand impacts and protect the internal components. The heavy-duty suspension arms and drivetrain components are also built to handle the stresses of high-speed driving and hard landings. However, no RC truck is indestructible, and the Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S is no exception. Over time, you may need to replace parts like the shocks, gears, and bearings. The good news is that Traxxas parts are readily available and relatively affordable. Maintaining the Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S is fairly straightforward. Regular maintenance tasks include cleaning the truck after each run, lubricating the moving parts, and checking the tightness of the screws and fasteners. You should also inspect the tires for wear and tear and replace them as needed. One of the best things about the Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S is its waterproof electronics. This means you can drive it in wet conditions without worrying about damaging the ESC or receiver. However, it's still a good idea to dry the truck off after each run to prevent corrosion. To extend the life of your Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S, it's important to avoid excessive abuse. While the truck is designed to handle jumps and rough terrain, repeatedly sending it off huge jumps or crashing it into hard objects will eventually take its toll. Driving within your limits and avoiding unnecessary risks will help prolong the life of your truck. The Velineon brushless motor is relatively low-maintenance, but it's still a good idea to clean it periodically to remove dirt and debris. You should also check the motor's bearings and replace them if they become worn or noisy. Overall, the Traxxas Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S is a durable and reliable RC truck that can provide years of enjoyment with proper care and maintenance. By following these simple tips, you can keep your Stampede running smoothly and avoid costly repairs.

Pros and Cons

Let's break down the pros and cons of the Traxxas Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S to give you a clear picture of what you're getting into.

Pros:

• High Speed and Power: The Velineon brushless motor delivers incredible acceleration and top speeds, making it a blast to drive.
• Durable Construction: The tough chassis and rugged components are designed to withstand the abuse of bashing and jumping.
• Waterproof Electronics: The waterproof ESC and receiver allow you to drive in wet conditions without worry.
• Easy to Maintain: Traxxas parts are readily available and relatively affordable, making maintenance and repairs straightforward.
• Versatile Performance: The Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S can handle a variety of terrains, from pavement to dirt to grass.

Cons:

• High Center of Gravity: The truck's high center of gravity can make it prone to rollovers, especially on high-speed corners.
• Battery and Charger Not Included: You'll need to purchase a battery and charger separately, which can add to the overall cost.
• Plastic Components: Some of the plastic components may be prone to breaking under extreme stress.
• Can Be Expensive: The Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S is more expensive than some other RC trucks on the market.
• Requires Some Maintenance: Like any RC vehicle, the Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly.

Is the Traxxas Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S Worth It?

So, after all this, is the Traxxas Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S worth it? The answer, in most cases, is a resounding yes. If you're looking for a fast, durable, and versatile RC truck that can handle a variety of terrains, the Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S is an excellent choice. It's a great option for both beginners and experienced hobbyists alike. The Velineon brushless power system delivers incredible performance, while the tough chassis and rugged components ensure that it can withstand the abuse of bashing and jumping. The waterproof electronics are a huge plus, allowing you to drive in wet conditions without worry.

However, it's important to consider the cons before making a purchase. The Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S can be expensive, especially when you factor in the cost of a battery and charger. It also requires some maintenance to keep it running smoothly. But if you're willing to invest the time and money, the Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S is sure to provide you with years of enjoyment. It's a well-built and reliable RC truck that can handle just about anything you throw at it. Plus, the Traxxas name is synonymous with quality and innovation, so you can be confident that you're getting a top-notch product. The Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S is a versatile and capable RC truck that can handle a variety of driving styles and terrains. Whether you're bashing in the backyard, hitting the skate park, or racing on the track, this truck is sure to impress. Its combination of speed, durability, and handling makes it a great value for the money. So, if you're in the market for a high-performance RC truck, the Traxxas Stampede 4x4 VXL 3S is definitely worth considering.