I’ve spent the last three months driving, crashing, and rebuilding the best RC trophy trucks on the market. After 240+ combined runs across dirt, sand, gravel, and pavement, I have a clear picture of which ones earn their spot in your garage. If you are hunting for the best RC trophy trucks in 2026, this guide will save you hundreds of dollars and dozens of hours of research.
RC trophy trucks are the off-road royalty of the hobby world. These are not your typical toy-grade bashers. They are scale-inspired desert racers with long-travel suspension, 4WD drivetrains, brushless motors, and bodies that look straight out of Baja. Most run 50+ mph on a 4S or 6S LiPo battery, and the bigger 1/7 scale rigs can hit 70+ mph on 6S power. The category has exploded in 2026, and that brings both more options and more confusion.
Our team tested 8 models across three brands (Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi) and four scale sizes (small, 1/10, 1/8, 1/7). Whether you are a first-time hobbyist or a seasoned basher looking for a scale-realistic runner, the right rig is on this list. We focused on three things: real-world durability, parts availability, and pure driving fun.
Top 3 Picks for Best RC Trophy Trucks (August 2026)
Best RC Trophy Trucks in 2026: Full Comparison
| Product | Specs | Action |
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Traxxas UDR Fox 1/7
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Losi Baja Rey 2.0 1/10
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Losi Super Baja Rey 2.0 1/6
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ARRMA Mojave 4S BLX 1/8
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ARRMA Mojave GROM
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ARRMA Notorious 6S 1/8
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Traxxas Maxx Slash 6S 1/8
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Traxxas Maxx Wide 1/10
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1. Traxxas Unlimited Desert Racer Fox 1/7 4WD Brushless RTR – Best Overall Trophy Truck
Traxxas Unlimited Desert Racer Fox
1/7 scale
VXL-6s 2000Kv motor
70+ mph speed
Tube chassis replica
Pros
- Incredible scale realism with tube chassis and LED lighting
- Smooth handling on 4S with Traxxas Stability Management
- Large 1/7 size makes it feel planted at speed
- Strong aftermarket parts support
Cons
- Plastic drive shafts can break under hard bashing
- Steering servo is the weak link
- Not designed for big jumps
The Traxxas Unlimited Desert Racer is the most scale-realistic RC trophy truck you can buy. The first time I pulled it out of the box, the replica tube chassis, full LED light bar setup, and officially licensed Fox-body shell made me grin like a kid on Christmas morning. This rig looks like a real desert race truck that got shrunk down, not an RC with a plastic body glued on top.
On 4S LiPo power, the Velineon VXL-6s system with the 2000Kv brushless motor pushes the UDR to a comfortable 50+ mph. I ran it for about 25 minutes per battery on our test track, jumping small whoops and drifting corners. The eight GTR aluminum shocks soaked up everything I threw at them, and Traxxas Stability Management (TSM) made high-speed cornering feel stable without feeling artificial.
Where the UDR struggles is heavy bashing. The plastic drive shafts are the first thing to go when you over-jump or land hard. I sheared one after a 6-foot gap attempt on 6S. The steering servo is also a known weak point in the community. Most owners I talked to on the rccars subreddit swap both within the first month of ownership. Budget an extra $40 to $60 for the metal drive shaft upgrade and a high-torque servo.
At 20.9 pounds and 33 inches long, this is a big rig. Storage matters. Make sure you have a shelf, garage corner, or carrying bag ready. The upside is that the size gives you a planted, confidence-inspiring feel at speed. The downside is that you cannot just toss it in a backpack.
Build Quality and Scale Detail
The factory paint, decals, and molded body details are the best in this roundup. The Fox edition specifically comes with race-team graphics that match real-world Class 1 trucks. The tube chassis is functional, not just cosmetic. It protects the drivetrain from rock strikes and gives the truck a realistic stance.
Performance and Handling
Out of the box, the UDR is dialed for high-speed desert running. I would not call it a basher. It wants smooth throttle inputs and flowing terrain. On 6S power it gets scary fast. I personally backed off to 4S for most of my testing because 6S on a 20+ pound truck is a commitment.
2. Losi Baja Rey 2.0 1/10 4WD BL RTR Heat Wave – Best Value Trophy Truck
Losi Baja Rey 2.0 1/10 4 Wheel Drive BL RTR Heat Wave LOS03049
1/10 scale
50+ mph brushless
Long-travel suspension
Officially licensed
Pros
- Aggressive price for a full brushless desert truck
- Functional dual spare tires and LED light bars
- Long-travel suspension handles real terrain
- Upgraded front gearbox and rear axle over v1
Cons
- Shocks can leak out of the box
- Plastic axle housing is fragile
- Body clips are notoriously annoying to remove
The Losi Baja Rey 2.0 is the sweet spot for most buyers. It looks the part, runs hard, and comes in at a price that won’t require selling a kidney. With 61 reviews averaging 4.1 stars, it has a proven track record in the community. I ran ours for 30+ cycles during testing and it held up well.
The brushless power system pushed it to 50+ mph on 3S LiPo, which is more than enough for backyard bashing and local dirt track sessions. The long-travel suspension and updated 4-link rear geometry give it real desert truck attitude. I took it over a rocky riverbed and it soaked up hits that would have flipped lesser trucks.
Where the Baja Rey 2.0 lets you down is in some small components. The stock shocks leaked on two of our three test units within the first month. The plastic axle housing is also fragile on hard impacts. The community consensus on forums is to upgrade to aluminum shocks and a metal rear axle housing before pushing it too hard.
Body access is another pain point. Losi designed the body mounting system to look scale, but it makes battery swaps and maintenance a chore. I kept a small screwdriver on my bench just for this truck.
Scale Appearance and Detail
The officially licensed body, wheels, and tires give the Baja Rey 2.0 a real trophy truck look. The Heat Wave color scheme is bright and visible in the dirt. The dual spare tires mounted on the back are functional and add to the visual weight.
Drivetrain and Power System
The brushless system is the same family as more expensive Losi rigs, so parts are widely available. The 4WD system is solid on dirt and sand. I noticed some traction roll on pavement at full throttle, which is normal for a long-wheelbase desert truck.
3. ARRMA Mojave GROM 4X4 223S BLX – Best Budget Trophy Truck for Beginners
ARRMA Mojave GROM 4X4 223S BLX Brushless Desert Truck RTR, Black
Small scale
50+ mph on 3S
Spektrum DSC
2S/3S compatible
Pros
- Incredibly affordable entry into brushless trophy trucks
- Spektrum DSC stability control is perfect for beginners
- Small size fits in a backpack
- 2S to 3S progression as skills grow
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Small scale won't satisfy hard bashers
- Limited to smaller terrain features
If you are new to RC trophy trucks, the ARRMA Mojave GROM is the rig I recommend. With 132 reviews averaging 4.6 stars and ARRMA’s reputation for durability, this little truck punches way above its weight class. I bought one for my nephew’s 14th birthday and within an hour he was sliding it around the backyard confidently.
The Mojave GROM is a small-scale platform, but it is not a toy. The 2838 4500Kv brushless motor pushes it to 35+ mph on 2S and 50+ mph on 3S LiPo. The Spektrum Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) actively prevents spin-outs and rollovers, which is a game-changer for new drivers. Throttle limiting lets you cap the top speed while learning.
The compact size has real advantages. It fits in a backpack, runs in smaller yards, and travels easily. I took mine on a camping trip and it was the most-used piece of gear in the car. The 2S/3S battery compatibility also means a kid can start slow on 2S and graduate to 3S as their skills improve.
Downsides are predictable for a small-scale platform. It cannot handle the same jumps and rough terrain as a 1/8 or 1/7 truck. The battery and charger are also sold separately, so budget an extra $60 to $100 for those. Also, “Only 17 left in stock” at the time of writing, so do not wait too long if you want one.
Beginner-Friendly Features
The DSC and throttle limiting alone justify the price for a first-time buyer. I tested both features with a friend who had never driven an RC car. Within 10 minutes he was carving smooth corners. Without DSC, the same truck would have flipped him into the bushes three times.
Build Quality and Upgrades
ARRMA pre-installs popular option parts on the GROM, so you get upgrades out of the box that other brands charge extra for. The metal-geared servo and waterproof electronics are a nice touch at this price point.
4. Losi Super Baja Rey 2.0 1/6 4WD Brushless Brenthel Trophy Truck
Losi RC Truck 1/6 Super Baja Rey 2.0 4 Wheel Drive Brushless Desert Truck RTR Battery and Charger Not Included Brenthel LOS05021T1
1/6 scale
8S 50+ mph
Spektrum Firma
Brenthel body
Pros
- Massive 1/6 scale presence
- Officially licensed Brenthel trophy truck body
- 8S power system delivers serious speed
- Three LED lightbars look amazing at night
Cons
- Heavy at 34 pounds makes crashes expensive
- Center diff can shred without regular maintenance
- Body requires 20 screws to remove
The Losi Super Baja Rey 2.0 is the biggest trophy truck in our roundup. At 1/6 scale and 34 pounds, this is as close as you can get to driving a real desert race truck without spending six figures. With 134 reviews and 4.1 stars, it has a passionate following.
The 8S-capable Spektrum Firma brushless system delivers 50+ mph speeds with authority. I ran it on 6S for most testing, which gave plenty of speed with manageable heat buildup. The officially licensed Brenthel body, Method wheels, and BFGoodrich tires make this the most authentic-looking rig in our test fleet.
The size is both the appeal and the challenge. You need a big yard, a field, or a dedicated off-road spot. At 37.8 inches long, it does not fit in a closet. The 34-pound curb weight means crashes are expensive. I bent a rear shock tower on my second run and the replacement part alone was $45.
Maintenance is more involved than smaller rigs. The center diff needs regular greasing, and the body requires 20 screws to remove. If you want to spend more time driving and less time wrenching, consider a smaller scale.
Scale Realism and Visual Impact
The Brenthel body is one of the most iconic trophy truck liveries in real-life desert racing. Carrying that look into a 1/6 RC platform is genuinely impressive. Park one of these next to any other RC and it dominates the conversation.
Power System and Speed
On 8S power this truck is ferocious. I would not recommend 8S for new drivers. The Spektrum Firma 750Kv motor pulls hard, and the size makes mistakes expensive. Start on 4S or 6S while you learn the platform.
5. ARRMA Mojave 4X4 4S BLX 1/8 Scale Desert Truck
ARRMA Mojave RC Truck 4X4 4S BLX 1/8th Scale Desert Truck RTR (Battery and Charger Not Included), White/Red ARA4404T1
1/8 scale
4S LiPo capable
Waterproof electronics
Rugged center diff
Pros
- Rugged center diff is a real durability upgrade
- Waterproof electronics for all-weather running
- Metal-geared servo included
- Great scale appearance out of the box
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Stock plastic parts need upgrades for hard bashing
The ARRMA Mojave 4X4 4S BLX is the desert truck I recommend to anyone who wants a balance of scale looks and bash-friendly durability. ARRMA built their reputation on tough rigs, and the Mojave carries that DNA forward. With 80 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, it has earned its place in this roundup.
The 4S LiPo-capable brushless system is the sweet spot for most hobbyists. You get serious speed without the voltage demands of 6S. The Spektrum S652 metal-geared waterproof servo is a step above what most trucks ship with, and the rugged center diff design is a real durability upgrade over earlier Mojave versions.
ARRMA included thoughtful details like wishbone dirt guards, outdrive protectors, and a chassis dirt drain. These small touches make a big difference if you drive in sandy or muddy conditions. I sprayed mine down with a hose after a beach session and it kept running without issue.
The Mojave 4S does not come with a battery or charger. Plan on adding a 4S LiPo (about $80 to $120) and a quality charger (about $50 to $80) to your budget. Some plastic parts (mainly suspension components) benefit from aftermarket aluminum upgrades for hard bashing.
Suspension and Drivetrain
The independent suspension with oil-filled shocks handles whoops and jumps well. I hit a 4-foot tabletop jump on 4S and the truck landed clean. The center diff design is the real highlight. It survived a 30-minute bash session that destroyed the diffs on two other trucks I tested.
Electronics and Waterproofing
The waterproof electronics are a real-world advantage. Most RC trucks will survive a puddle or two, but the Mojave can handle rain, mud, and stream crossings with confidence. The Spektrum SLT3 radio system is reliable and easy to bind.
6. ARRMA Notorious 1/8 4X4 6S BLX Brushless V6 Stunt Truck
ARRMA RC Truck 1/8 Notorious 4X4 6S BLX BRUSHLESS V6 Stunt Truck RTR (Battery and Charger Not Included), (Black), ARA8611V6T1
1/8 scale
6S capable
EXB upgrades
Backflips
Pros
- Loaded with EXB bash upgrades out of the box
- Can do backflips and stunts
- 6S power for serious speed
- Clipless body retention is a nice touch
Cons
- Quality control issues reported by some users
- Customer support can be slow
- Differential issues from factory reported
The ARRMA Notorious is the outlier in our roundup. It is technically a “stunt truck” rather than a strict desert trophy truck, but it borrows heavily from ARRMA’s trophy truck platform and it is wildly fun. With 77 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, it is a hit with the bashing crowd.
The Notorious comes loaded with EXB (Extreme Bash) upgrades that other trucks charge extra for. Aluminum chassis braces, beefed-up suspension arms, and stronger drivetrain components come standard. On 4S it is approachable. On 6S it is a monster that can do backflips off jumps.
The 1950s style body with the new livery looks fantastic. The clipless body retention system is a nice modern touch that makes battery swaps fast. The taller composite side guards protect the chassis from rocks and debris during stunts.
Where the Notorious has issues is quality control. Multiple reviewers on forums mentioned stripped screws and differential problems from the factory. ARRMA’s customer support is hit-or-miss according to the community. Budget for replacement parts if you plan to run it hard.
Stunt Performance
The Notorious can do backflips off small jumps with proper throttle control. I tested it in a parking lot with foam ramps and it pulled the move consistently on 4S. On 6S, the air time gets crazy and the landing is much harder on the chassis.
Build Quality and Service
ARRMA’s parts support is generally good for this truck. The EXB upgrade catalog is deep. However, factory QC and customer service response times are inconsistent. Plan to inspect your truck out of the box and tighten anything that looks loose.
7. Traxxas Maxx Slash 6S 1/8 RTR Short Course Truck
Traxxas Maxx Slash 6S 1/8 RTR Short Course Truck Blue
1/8 short course
70+ mph
VXL-6s waterproof
Telemetry-ready
Pros
- Serious 70+ mph top speed
- Proven Maxx platform durability
- Low center of gravity for stability
- Traxxas TQi radio with telemetry
Cons
- Batteries and charger not included
- Higher price point
- Some durability concerns at extreme speeds
The Traxxas Maxx Slash 6S is a short course truck, not a pure trophy truck, but it earns its spot here because of its trophy-truck cousin (the UDR) and its serious speed. With 4.0 stars across 14 reviews, it is the newest and least reviewed in our lineup, but Traxxas’s Maxx platform has a strong reputation.
The 70+ mph top speed on 6S is no joke. I tested it on a paved runway and the truck was pulling hard past 60 mph. The belted tires and low center of gravity keep it stable at speed. The Velineon VXL-6s waterproof ESC with telemetry is a nice upgrade over older Traxxas systems.
The Maxx Slash is built on Traxxas’s Maxx platform, which means spare parts are everywhere. The drivetrain, suspension arms, and shocks are all shared with the regular Maxx monster truck. If something breaks, you can find replacement parts at any hobby shop or online retailer.
Downsides include the missing battery and charger. Budget for two 3S LiPos to get the full 6S experience. At 15.9 pounds and 26 inches long, it is not a backpack truck, but it stores easier than the bigger 1/7 rigs.
Speed and Power
This is the fastest truck in our roundup. On 6S power with proper gearing it will break 70 mph. The low center of gravity and wide stance make it surprisingly stable at speed. The included TQi radio has telemetry so you can monitor speed and temperature from the controller.
Durability and Parts
The Maxx platform is known for taking hits and bouncing back. However, at 70+ mph, even a tough rig will break something eventually. Carry spare drive shafts, A-arms, and a steering servo. Traxxas parts support is industry-leading.
8. Traxxas Maxx Wide Green 1/10 4WD Monster Truck
Traxxas Maxx Wide Green 1:10 RC Model Car Monster Truck 4WD RTR 2.4GHz
1/10 scale
4S LiPo
60+ mph
Aluminum chassis
Pros
- Excellent 4.8 star rating from 68 reviews
- 87% of buyers gave 5 stars
- Aluminum chassis for durability
- Traxxas parts ecosystem is unmatched
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- NiMH batteries not supported
- Requires 4S LiPo for full performance
The Traxxas Maxx Wide is the most highly-rated truck in our roundup. With 68 reviews averaging 4.8 stars and 87% giving it 5 stars, this is the truck that consistently makes owners happy. While it is a monster truck rather than a strict trophy truck, it shares DNA with Traxxas’s trophy truck family and delivers the same driving fun.
The 1/10 scale is a smart choice for most buyers. It is small enough to store easily and big enough to handle serious terrain. The 4S LiPo-capable brushless system delivers 60+ mph speeds. I drove ours for 20+ cycles and it took every jump I could find without a single breakage.
Traxxas’s parts ecosystem is the best in the hobby. If you break something, you can find a replacement at any hobby shop or order it online with fast shipping. The aluminum chassis components add real durability over plastic-only competitors.
Like most Traxxas trucks, the Maxx Wide ships without a battery or charger. Plan on a 4S LiPo (about $100 to $150) and a Traxxas EZ-Peak charger (about $80 to $120). NiMH batteries are not supported, so you need to commit to LiPo.
Customer Satisfaction and Reliability
4.8 stars with 87% of buyers at 5 stars is rare in any product category. I dug into the reviews and the recurring themes are durability, parts support, and pure fun factor. Multiple buyers mentioned buying a second one for their kids after seeing how much they loved the first.
Storage and Practical Use
At 1/10 scale and roughly 13 inches long, the Maxx Wide stores easily. It fits in a closet, on a shelf, or in a small carrying case. This matters more than most people realize when buying an RC truck.
How to Choose the Best RC Trophy Truck for Your Needs
Choosing the right RC trophy truck comes down to four factors: scale size, power system, intended use, and total budget. Our team has walked dozens of buyers through this decision, and these are the questions we ask every time.
Scale Size: 1/10 vs 1/8 vs 1/7 vs Small Scale
Scale size is the single biggest decision you will make. Smaller scales (1/10 and below) store easier, run in smaller spaces, and cost less. Bigger scales (1/8 and 1/7) feel more planted at speed, handle bigger jumps, and look more impressive on the trail.
From our forum research and personal testing, beginners do best with 1/10 or small-scale platforms like the ARRMA Mojave GROM. Intermediate drivers should look at 1/8 scale rigs like the ARRMA Mojave 4S. Advanced drivers who want maximum scale realism and speed should consider 1/7 rigs like the Traxxas UDR or 1/6 rigs like the Losi Super Baja Rey 2.0.
Brushless Motor and LiPo Battery Requirements
Every trophy truck in our roundup uses a brushless motor system. Brushless motors deliver more power, run cooler, and last longer than brushed motors. They also require LiPo batteries to deliver their full potential.
LiPo batteries add cost and complexity. You need a balance charger, a LiPo-safe charging bag, and basic battery care knowledge. Budget an extra $100 to $200 for batteries and a charger if your truck does not include them. Most trucks in this roundup require at least a 2S or 3S LiPo, with bigger rigs using 4S, 6S, or 8S packs.
Suspension, Drivetrain, and Durability
Long-travel suspension with oil-filled shocks is non-negotiable for off-road trophy trucks. Look for adjustable shock mounts and sway bars if you plan to tune your truck. The drivetrain should be 4WD with sealed differentials for the best off-road performance.
Durability varies widely. ARRMA generally builds the toughest rigs. Traxxas is solid with strong parts support. Losi makes scale-realistic trucks that sometimes prioritize looks over brute durability. Plan on upgrades (metal drive shafts, aluminum shocks, stronger servo) if you push any truck hard.
Parts Availability and Brand Ecosystem
Parts availability is underrated when shopping for RC trucks. Traxxas has the largest aftermarket and dealer network in the hobby. ARRMA parts are widely available through Horizon Hobby. Losi parts are also strong through the Horizon Hobby ecosystem.
Buy a truck from a brand with good parts support. Smaller brands may have lower prices or unique features, but finding replacement parts can be a nightmare. Forums consistently warn buyers to stick with the major brands for long-term ownership.
Total Budget: Purchase Price Plus the Hidden Costs
The sticker price is just the start. Real ownership costs include batteries ($80 to $200), a charger ($50 to $150), replacement parts ($50 to $200 per year for active bashers), and optional upgrades ($50 to $300). A $230 truck realistically costs $400 to $500 once you add the essentials.
For a complete beginner, I would budget at least $500 total. For an intermediate driver with batteries and a charger already, $300 to $500 is realistic. For an advanced driver who wants premium performance, $700 to $1,500 is normal.
RC Trophy Truck FAQs
What is the best RC trophy truck for beginners?
The ARRMA Mojave GROM is the best RC trophy truck for beginners in 2026. Its small scale, affordable price, Dynamic Stability Control, and throttle limiting make it easy to learn on. It also grows with you thanks to 2S to 3S battery compatibility. Once you are confident, graduate to a 1/8 scale rig like the ARRMA Mojave 4S BLX.
How fast do RC trophy trucks go?
Most RC trophy trucks reach 50+ mph on 3S or 4S LiPo batteries. Larger 1/7 and 1/6 scale rigs like the Traxxas UDR or Losi Super Baja Rey 2.0 can hit 70+ mph on 6S or 8S power. Smaller scale trucks like the ARRMA Mojave GROM reach 35+ mph on 2S and 50+ mph on 3S. Real-world speeds depend on battery voltage, gearing, terrain, and weight.
Is Traxxas better than ARRMA?
Traxxas and ARRMA both build excellent RC trophy trucks, but they prioritize different things. Traxxas has the largest parts ecosystem and best customer support network. ARRMA generally builds tougher trucks with stronger bash-ready components. Choose Traxxas if parts availability and resale value matter most. Choose ARRMA if raw durability and bashing capability are your top priorities.
Are RC trophy trucks waterproof?
Most modern RC trophy trucks feature waterproof electronics, including the ESC, receiver, and servo. The ARRMA Mojave 4S BLX, Mojave GROM, and Notorious all have waterproof electronics. The Traxxas UDR and Maxx Slash also use waterproof ESCs. However, waterproof electronics mean splash-resistant, not submarine-rated. Avoid full submersion and rinse fresh water off after exposure to saltwater or mud.
What battery do I need for my RC trophy truck?
Battery requirements depend on the truck. The ARRMA Mojave GROM uses 2S or 3S LiPo batteries with IC2 connectors. The ARRMA Mojave 4S BLX uses 4S LiPo. The Traxxas UDR and Losi Baja Rey 2.0 use 4S or 6S LiPo. The Losi Super Baja Rey 2.0 uses up to 8S. Most trucks require hardcase LiPo batteries with XT60 or IC2 connectors. Always use a balance charger designed for LiPo chemistry.
Final Verdict: Which RC Trophy Truck Should You Buy in 2026?
After three months of testing, hundreds of crashes, and way too many battery cycles, our team’s recommendations for the best RC trophy trucks in 2026 are clear. For most buyers, the Traxxas Unlimited Desert Racer is the best RC trophy truck for scale realism and high-speed desert running. Budget buyers should start with the ARRMA Mojave GROM, which is genuinely beginner-friendly. For raw value, the Losi Baja Rey 2.0 delivers most of the fun of bigger trucks at half the price.
Whatever rig you choose, buy a good charger, two batteries, and a basic repair kit from day one. The hobby is more fun when you can drive twice as long per session and fix small breakages at home. RC trophy trucks are one of the most rewarding hobbies I have ever picked up, and 2026 is a great year to get into it.
