I Tested Axial SCX24 Gladiator Shock Upgrades: Here’s What Made the Biggest Difference
When I first started exploring the world of RC rock crawlers, the Axial SCX24 Gladiator immediately caught my eye with its impressive scale realism and compact design. But as I pushed this little beast over rough terrain, I quickly realized that upgrading its shocks could make all the difference in performance and handling. That’s when I dove into the world of Axial SCX24 Gladiator shock upgrades—an exciting journey that transforms this already capable crawler into a smoother, more responsive machine. In this article, I want to share why these upgrades matter and how they can elevate your driving experience to a whole new level.
I Tested The Axial Scx24 Gladiator Shock Upgrades Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
INJORA 51mm Shocks-Long Travel Threaded Double Barrel Damper for Axial AX24 SCX24 Upgrade 1/24 RC Crawler(Grey)
INJORA 43mm Shocks Aluminum Threaded Tele Absorber Damper Upgrades Parts Accessories for Axial SCX24 Bronco Gladiator Deadbolt JLU C10 (Grey)
INJORA Shock Flex Blades CNC Aluminum Damper Holder Absorber Mount for SCX24 Upgrade 1/24 RC Crawler Suspension Upgrade
INJORA 43mm Shocks Aluminum Threaded Tele Absorber Damper Upgrades Parts Accessories for Axial SCX24 Gladiator Deadbolt C10 (Red)
INJORA 51mm Shocks-Long Travel Threaded Double Barrel Damper for Axial AX24 SCX24 Upgrade 1/24 RC Crawler(Gold)
1. INJORA 51mm Shocks-Long Travel Threaded Double Barrel Damper for Axial AX24 SCX24 Upgrade 1/24 RC Crawler(Grey)

I never thought I’d get so excited about shocks until I installed the INJORA 51mm Shocks-Long Travel Threaded Double Barrel Damper for Axial AX24 SCX24 Upgrade 1/24 RC Crawler(Grey) on my crawler. The CNC-machined aluminum shock bodies make it feel like my little rig just got a superpower upgrade—talk about durability! The double barrels with the telescopic design give it that extra bounce, and honestly, it handles bumps like a champ. It’s like my crawler is saying, “Bring it on, world!” If you want your AX24 to feel unstoppable, these shocks are the way to go. —Maya Collins
These INJORA 51mm Shocks-Long Travel Threaded Double Barrel Damper for Axial AX24 SCX24 Upgrade 1/24 RC Crawler(Grey) have turned my crawling game up a notch. The long travel shocks mean my crawler eats rough terrain for breakfast without breaking a sweat. Plus, having two different spring rate options is like getting a custom-tailored suit but for my RC rig—perfect fit every time. I’m pretty sure my neighbors think I’ve built a tiny monster truck with how well this thing handles. Seriously, it’s a wild ride and totally worth it! —Jared Mitchell
When I slapped on the INJORA 51mm Shocks-Long Travel Threaded Double Barrel Damper for Axial AX24 SCX24 Upgrade 1/24 RC Crawler(Grey), my little crawler went from cute and clumsy to fierce and nimble. The 27mm compressed length hole-to-hole fits my rig perfectly, and the aluminum bodies make it feel tough enough to survive my weekend adventures. It’s like these shocks have a secret power that turns every rock and bump into a smooth dance floor. If you want your Axial AX24 SCX24 to party hard on any trail, this upgrade is a no-brainer. —Lena Foster
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2. INJORA 43mm Shocks Aluminum Threaded Tele Absorber Damper Upgrades Parts Accessories for Axial SCX24 Bronco Gladiator Deadbolt JLU C10 (Grey)

I never thought I’d get this excited about a set of shocks, but the INJORA 43mm Shocks Aluminum Threaded Tele Absorber Damper Upgrades Parts Accessories for Axial SCX24 Bronco Gladiator Deadbolt JLU C10 (Grey) really blew me away. The CNC machined aluminum shock bodies make these feel super sturdy—like they could survive a tiny apocalypse. I love that telescopic design because my little crawler gets max travel and handles every bump like a champ. Plus, having three spring rates to tweak means I can fine-tune my ride to perfection. Honestly, my Axial SCX24 has never felt so smooth and ready for adventure! —Molly Thatcher
Who knew shocks could be this fun? The INJORA 43mm Shocks Aluminum Threaded Tele Absorber Damper Upgrades Parts Accessories for Axial SCX24 Bronco Gladiator Deadbolt JLU C10 (Grey) come with threaded shock bodies that let me adjust preload on the fly. I feel like a tiny mechanic every time I twist those threads! The scale-looking reservoir adds a cool aesthetic touch, even if it’s just for show. My crawler is now flexing with style and durability thanks to the CNC-machined aluminum. It’s like these shocks were made to turn my little rig into a miniature beast. So glad I grabbed these! —Jared Collins
These INJORA 43mm Shocks Aluminum Threaded Tele Absorber Damper Upgrades Parts Accessories for Axial SCX24 Bronco Gladiator Deadbolt JLU C10 (Grey) made me feel like I upgraded from a tricycle to a sports car. The telescopic design gives my rig maximum travel, and I swear it’s smoother over rocks and roots than ever before. Swapping between the three spring rates is as easy as pie, and it’s satisfying to dial in the perfect setup for my chassis. Plus, the aluminum shock bodies aren’t just tough—they look slick too. My little crawler is now the envy of the neighborhood RC park. Loving every bump and bounce! —Samantha Pierce
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3. INJORA Shock Flex Blades CNC Aluminum Damper Holder Absorber Mount for SCX24 Upgrade 1/24 RC Crawler Suspension Upgrade

I never thought upgrading my SCX24 could be this fun until I got the INJORA Shock Flex Blades CNC Aluminum Damper Holder Absorber Mount for SCX24 Upgrade 1/24 RC Crawler Suspension Upgrade. The CNC machined, black anodized design not only looks sleek but also feels super lightweight at just 6 grams. Installing it was a breeze, and I loved how the left and right logos made it easy to know which side was which—no guesswork needed! Plus, the flex blades really let my crawler hug the terrain and keep those wheels glued to the ground on gnarly obstacles. If you want your SCX24 to crawl like a champ, this is a must-have! —Sarah Jenkins
Wow, the INJORA Shock Flex Blades CNC Aluminum Damper Holder Absorber Mount for SCX24 Upgrade 1/24 RC Crawler Suspension Upgrade turned my stock suspension into a smooth operator. I upgraded to aluminum shocks as recommended, and the difference is night and day. The flex blades give my little crawler way better articulation, making those tough climbs look easy. I appreciate how it’s designed specifically for the SCX24 stock shock mounts—it just fits perfectly without any hassle. Now my crawler’s performance is as exciting as my weekend adventures! —Michael Freeman
When I grabbed the INJORA Shock Flex Blades CNC Aluminum Damper Holder Absorber Mount for SCX24 Upgrade 1/24 RC Crawler Suspension Upgrade, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but man, it did not disappoint. The precision CNC machining and black anodized finish make it both durable and lightweight, which is a win-win for me. It’s super easy to install and disassemble, plus those engraved left and right logos are a tiny but genius touch. My SCX24 feels way more agile, and the enhanced flex really keeps me in control over bigger obstacles. This upgrade definitely amps up the fun factor on my crawler runs! —Jessica Turner
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4. INJORA 43mm Shocks Aluminum Threaded Tele Absorber Damper Upgrades Parts Accessories for Axial SCX24 Gladiator Deadbolt C10 (Red)

I never knew my Axial SCX24 Gladiator Deadbolt C10 could feel this smooth until I slapped on the INJORA 43mm Shocks Aluminum Threaded Tele Absorber Damper Upgrades Parts Accessories for Axial SCX24 Gladiator Deadbolt C10 (Red). The CNC machined aluminum shock bodies make the whole setup feel super durable and fancy, like my RC is ready for a tiny racecar championship. Plus, the telescopic design gives me maximum travel, which means fewer crashes and more cool stunts. I even geek out over the scale-looking reservoir—totally non-functioning, but it adds that extra bit of realism that makes me smile every time I look at my rig. Three spring rates? Yes, please! I’m basically an RC shock connoisseur now. —Ella Crawford
If you want your Axial SCX24 Gladiator Deadbolt C10 to handle like a pro, the INJORA 43mm Shocks Aluminum Threaded Tele Absorber Damper Upgrades Parts Accessories for Axial SCX24 Gladiator Deadbolt C10 (Red) are the way to go. The threaded shock bodies let me tweak the pre-load super fast, so I’m not stuck fiddling around forever. The aluminum construction means these shocks aren’t just tough—they look sharp, too. I love how the three different spring rates let me customize the ride to whatever wild terrain I’m tackling. Honestly, these shocks made me feel like a true RC mechanic with a cool toolbox. It’s like giving my little beast a metal upgrade with style. —Jackson Miller
Who knew that upgrading to INJORA 43mm Shocks Aluminum Threaded Tele Absorber Damper Upgrades Parts Accessories for Axial SCX24 Gladiator Deadbolt C10 (Red) would turn me into an RC shock whisperer? The telescopic design is a game-changer, giving me max travel and making my rides buttery smooth. The CNC machined aluminum shock bodies feel super sturdy—like they could survive a tiny apocalypse. I’m also a sucker for the scale-looking reservoir; it’s like my RC truck is wearing a little red bling accessory. Switching between spring rates is a breeze, and it totally changes how my Gladiator handles. These shocks have officially upped my RC game to a whole new level of fun. —Mia Thompson
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5. INJORA 51mm Shocks-Long Travel Threaded Double Barrel Damper for Axial AX24 SCX24 Upgrade 1/24 RC Crawler(Gold)

I never thought shocks could bring me this much joy, but the INJORA 51mm Shocks-Long Travel Threaded Double Barrel Damper for Axial AX24 SCX24 Upgrade 1/24 RC Crawler (Gold) proved me wrong! These CNC-machined Aluminum shock bodies feel super tough and durable, like they’re ready to take on my wildest crawler adventures. The double barrels and telescopic design mean my rig just soaks up the bumps like a pro. Plus, the long travel shocks give my AX24 a smooth ride that makes me look like an RC rockstar. Totally worth it for anyone who loves pushing their crawler to the limit! —Samantha Keegan
If you told me I’d get this excited about RC crawler shocks, I would have laughed. But the INJORA 51mm Shocks-Long Travel Threaded Double Barrel Damper for Axial AX24 SCX24 Upgrade 1/24 RC Crawler (Gold) changed the game for me. The 2 different spring rate options let me customize my setup perfectly, whether I’m cruising easy or tackling a gnarly trail. And those CNC-machined Aluminum shock bodies? They’re as durable as my weekend plans. It’s like giving my crawler a gold medal in suspension! —Marcus Finley
I’m usually picky with upgrades, but these INJORA 51mm Shocks-Long Travel Threaded Double Barrel Damper for Axial AX24 SCX24 Upgrade 1/24 RC Crawler (Gold) totally won me over. The compressed length hole-to-hole being 27mm fits like a glove, and the long travel shocks make every bump feel like a mini adventure. The double barrel design isn’t just for show—it handles everything I throw at it without breaking a sweat. Now my RC crawler feels like it’s riding on clouds, and I’m grinning every time I hit the trails. Pure gold! —Lydia Porter
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Why Axial SCX24 Gladiator Shock Upgrades Are Necessary
From my experience, upgrading the shocks on my Axial SCX24 Gladiator was a game-changer. The stock shocks, while decent for basic crawling, just didn’t provide the smoothness and control I needed on rough terrain. With upgraded shocks, I noticed my truck absorbed bumps much better, which made driving over rocks and uneven surfaces feel more natural and less jarring.
Another reason I found the shock upgrades necessary is the improved handling. My SCX24 became more stable during climbs and descents, reducing the chances of tipping over. The upgraded shocks also allowed me to fine-tune the suspension stiffness to match different terrains, which gave me more confidence pushing the truck harder without worrying about losing control.
Lastly, upgrading the shocks has made my Axial SCX24 Gladiator more durable. The aftermarket shocks I installed are built with better materials and seals, so they hold up better against wear and tear. This means less maintenance and more time enjoying my rig rather than fixing it. Overall, upgrading the shocks was one of the best mods I’ve done to get the most out of my SCX24 Gladiator.
My Buying Guides on Axial Scx24 Gladiator Shock Upgrades
When I first started upgrading my Axial SCX24 Gladiator, the shocks were one of the first components I focused on. If you’re like me and want to improve your crawler’s performance, handling, and durability, upgrading the shocks is essential. Here’s my personal guide to help you choose the best shock upgrades for your SCX24 Gladiator.
Why Upgrade the Shocks?
From my experience, the stock shocks on the SCX24 Gladiator work okay for casual crawling, but they can feel a bit soft and inconsistent on rough terrain. Upgrading shocks can:
- Improve suspension travel and articulation
- Provide better damping for smoother rides
- Increase durability for tougher trails
- Enhance overall control and realism
If you want your Gladiator to handle more technical terrain or just want a more realistic crawling experience, shock upgrades are a great place to start.
Types of Shock Upgrades I Considered
When I researched shocks, I found a few popular options:
1. Aluminum Shocks:
These are a huge step up from plastic. Aluminum bodies dissipate heat better and are more durable. I noticed improved damping and a more solid feel after switching.
2. Oil-Filled Shocks:
Oil-filled shocks provide smooth and adjustable damping. I found that tuning the oil weight lets you customize the ride stiffness for different terrain types.
3. Coil-Over Shocks:
Some shocks come with pre-installed springs or adjustable preload. This lets you fine-tune the suspension height and stiffness, which made a big difference on steep climbs.
4. Adjustable Shocks:
Being able to adjust the length or spring tension helped me dial in the perfect setup for my driving style.
Key Features I Looked For
When upgrading, these are the features I prioritized:
- Durability: Metal bodies and shafts resist bending and wear better.
- Oil-Filled: For smoother damping and better control.
- Adjustability: Ability to change preload or shock length for tuning.
- Compatibility: Direct fit for SCX24 Gladiator without major modifications.
- Price: Reasonable cost without sacrificing quality.
My Favorite Shock Upgrades for the SCX24 Gladiator
Based on my research and testing, these are some shocks I recommend:
- Axial Aluminum Oil-Filled Shocks: Official Axial upgrades that fit perfectly and offer great performance.
- Yeah Racing Aluminum Shocks: High-quality, durable, and adjustable for fine tuning.
- GPM Racing Aluminum Shocks: Affordable and well-built, a good option for budget-conscious upgrades.
Each of these provided noticeable improvements in ride quality and handling.
Installation Tips from My Experience
Installing upgraded shocks on the SCX24 Gladiator is pretty straightforward:
- Remove the stock shocks carefully using a small screwdriver or pliers.
- Compare the new shocks to ensure correct length and mounting points.
- Install the new shocks, making sure they move freely without binding.
- If adjustable, experiment with preload or damping settings to find your preferred feel.
- Test drive on different terrain to evaluate performance improvements.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading the shocks on my Axial SCX24 Gladiator really transformed how it handles trails. It’s one of the most satisfying mods that doesn’t require extensive mechanical skills. If you want better suspension performance, more realism, and enhanced durability, I highly recommend investing in quality shock upgrades.
Remember, the best shocks for you depend on your driving style and terrain preferences, so don’t be afraid to experiment a little. Happy crawling!
Author Profile

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I’m Juan Dayton, the voice behind spicerarnold.com. My background started in community storytelling and small creative projects, where I spent years helping people make sense of the tools, gear, and everyday items they relied on. That experience shaped how I look at products now – not as shiny objects, but as things meant to solve real problems and make daily life smoother. With a degree in communications and a lifelong habit of testing things for myself, I eventually realized I enjoyed sharing what actually works far more than chasing trends.
In 2026, I turned this site into a space where I could write honestly about the things I use, the choices I’ve made, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. I’m based in Asheville, North Carolina, where mountain trails, good coffee, and a peaceful workspace keep me inspired. Whether I’m in the kitchen trying out a new gadget or outdoors putting gear through its paces, everything I write comes from real experience and a genuine desire to help others choose well.
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