The first step into the world of radio controlled toys can be fun, exciting, and adventurous. Now-a-days you can find RC planes, helicopters, tanks, gliders, boats, motorcycles, submarines, trucks, robots, and even UFO’s! There are many different categories with many different models within each making it almost impossible to NOT find something that catches your eye and peaks your interest. But on the same token, having so many choices can also leave you feeling a bit confused, stressed, and flat out overwhelmed. Well relax and take a deep breath! For that very same reason, in this article, let your mind focus on one category only: tanks.

Many people can recall playing with action figures and army vehicles as children. Things were much simpler back then as were the toys we played with. But alas times have changed, we have grown up, and so have our toys! Today’s RC Tanks are battery-operated and remotely controlled with a handheld transmitter that broadcasts radio signals to the on-board receiver. For those who are just starting out and are looking for something that is fun, easy to operate, and budget friendly, you may want to take at look at toy-grade tanks. Toy-grade tanks are simple in design and operation and require very little maintenance as there are no parts to work on or change out. Your biggest task will be making sure your batteries stay charged. Toy-grade tanks can start out for as little as $20 and make perfect gifts for young children. Toy-grade RC tanks are usually made of plastic with a few metal components here and there but are generally pretty tough and can handle some abuse. Many toy-grade models come with additional features such as fully operational turrets that can fire soft pellets as well as emulate sound and smoke effects which can be operated from the remote control.

Hobby-grade tank models are for enthusiasts that are a bit more experienced in the RC hobby. A good hobby-grade entry level tank can be purchased for around $50 but higher-end advanced models can go for upwards of $700. Hobby-grade tanks have many parts that can be replaced and upgraded which is ideal for those that prefer to be more hands-on but adds to the costs of owning and maintaining a hobby-grade tank. Hobby-grade tanks ARE made with better parts, however, such as upgraded metal tracks, rubber treads, and light- weight metallic bodies giving them more durability and a longer life than their toy-grade cousins. Most hobby grade tanks feature the same functional turrets and sound but can additionally come with other electronic gadgets such as cameras and infrared guns, as many enthusiasts will simulate mock battles against their friends whom also own an RC tank.

There are RC tanks for collectors and tank kits for custom builders who like to completely build there tank from scratch as well. Many collectable RC tanks carry high price tags because they are built to precise scale and feature the designs of full-sized historical war tanks such as old Tigers and Shermans of World War II, to the most modern mobile armor in the world today. Collectors of these tanks value high-quality materials and detail more than the fun provided by the toy.

Once you have picked the RC model tank that is right for you its time to go out and have some fun! Check into the availability of RC hobby groups in your area that you may be interested in. Most of these groups are free to join and hold battles or races from time to time. Not only will this allow you to perfect your tank driving skills, it will also allow you to make a bunch of new friends!