Are you the Gatekeeper? Element is the Keymaster!

[@douglaselliott8298]

I'm a 'RTR' consumer. I was never one for puzzles and blueprints, and my living situation does not lend itself to a hobby room with a workbench and all the appurtenances. I can see the 'kit' builders reasonings, but very glad the manufacturers are serving BOTH markets.

[@xtx8133]

Hey I live in a 2 bedroom apt with gf an kids an still build mine so can you just takes time an beer lol

[@surfside75]

Me too! I bought a rtr Losi Baja Rey king shocks raptor. 12runs later and no breakage on 3S batteries, I bought a second Raptor to build a $1,500+ parts show truck😍 -i may have went overboard on parts but it's the most fun I've had in a decade🤙

[@dannygonzalez0861]

I'm a kit person myself, like having the freedom to pick and choose my electronics as I see fit.

[@stpbasss3773]

That's what I did and the kit is awesome

[@northsandiegorc4248]

Kit 100%- high clearance links up front, metal pivots, hard plastics all around, bronze colored shocks bodies, all aluminum pan hard mount vs half plastic half aluminum on RTR

[@robbiebobster9672]

Can't wait for the release of the Key Master. If you're lucky enough to get both, you could possibly take over the world!!

[@jameslovasziii6917]

I’m so pumped, I just got an email from AMain saying I won the giveaway and I got the gatekeeper!

[@daveTV]

Matt, the long battery tray is included because it's on the same mold as the short one. It gets molded anyway and rather than just throw it away, it's put in the box.

[@scalebuildersguild]

Fully aware of that Dave, but seems moot if it can't be used, just an observation.

[@daveTV]

@@scalebuildersguild True, but you can always cut off the ends and use it as a tray to mount electronics on the rear tower if you decide to relocate them for scale accessories. I did that to mine so I could put the 3D printed engine up front to fill that empty space.

[@mikej8832]

Always save it for a custom build instead of having to buy one....

[@JeepsCafe]

Just built several kits this past two months, it feels great to take a break from kits and yes bought the rtr Gatekeeper.

[@notsam_flagdirt]

So much stuff on crawlers is developed in the rc racing world. I found a few things on this truck, like the shock tower inserts. Those first appeared on the associated B5 buggy

[@scalebuildersguild]

Interesting!

[@CoachD386]

I think it’s a good move by them to come out with an rtr for those who don’t like building kits, i like both myself 💪🏾💯

[@nielsmeer]

Kit for me. I built 2 of the Gatekeeper kits last weekend for my son & I. You are spot on with the Capra comparison. My Capra is better in the rocks, but the Gatekeeper is better at speed.

[@mew1216]

I am typically a kit guy for all the reasons other's have cited, but I'm considering the RTR with this rig. Primarily so that I can have it as a "loaner rig" for friends and family. All of my other rigs are bound to my Spektrum Tx, so it sucks when someone wants to drive my course with me and I don't have a rig for them to use.

[@jdsrcs8061]

I am liking this rig more and more. I picked up a Capra kit on Tuesday from the local hobby shop for my daughter, I might have to get one of these for me!!!!!

[@Warwick3511]

I have just got a kit as a xmas presnt to myself. I will try John Shults suggestion of leaving the fixing pins out for the front hinge to bumper mount so I can completly remove the body after removing the rear pins

[@davidjohnson6225]

Kit, as I am currently building my gatekeeper for endurance events this year. So far I am happy with this build.

[@Benjamin_Reese]

I'm a kit guy, I once thought I liked RTR better, but I kept upgrading every one I bought. Often the kit version comes with some of the things I upgrade anyway. I also don't have to disassemble and reassemble with a kit. Win/win

[@rcdriver]

I’ve seen the Gatekeeper kit and don’t call me Shirley.

[@scalebuildersguild]

Roger, Roger.

[@warriorkm3111]

AIRPLANE

[@moematos1785]

That was a good one, my wife kept asking me questions when I was watching... So, I am gonna watch again...

[@sgtlt]

use the short battery tray in the rear mounting position to mount all the electronics, then get a Bowhouse Lcg battery tray mounted in the front position to hold your batteries. 60wt oil in the shocks. it is a very good crawler if set up for it

[@Rokstardad82]

Not that I dislike kits at all,but working 7 days a week I appreciate a ready to run 👍

[@Triggered-RC]

Building is why I am into RC. I just got the kit. Gonna build it up as more of a racer and less of a crawler. That being the case, I may try to find axels that allow for open diffs...

[@Stickies72]

I like that they offered an RTR after the Kit, I prefer kits myself but there is a big market for RTR so it make sense to offer both. I did not like to hear the word "tippy", sounds like widening the stance might be important. I have to say that your running footage is stunning as always, absolutely love how you film and edit your work!

[@stpbasss3773]

It's not like a bomber or capra because it has a traditional rail chassis underneath the cage so it makes it tippy, I'm currently looking for a good extension I tried cheap Chinese ones but didn't like them lol.

[@Stickies72]

@@stpbasss3773 I like to use the SSD Wheel Spacers, they have a 6mm one with a Brake rotor that gives just enough. I put them on both my Capra and Bomber, just getting a little bit wider makes a pretty significant difference. I think I am going to do the same with the Gatekeeper and see if it helps.

[@stpbasss3773]

@@Stickies72 Thanks for the tip I'm going to go look for them and order some. I have some wheel weights coming that bolt up to my beadlocks "hopefully " and I'll order the extensions and see if that helps the tippy lol. Otherwise I love the rig so far.

[@rubiken06]

I have the kit version on my bench. I am digging the build so far.

[@shadow7796]

It looks like the SC480X speed control is in the rtr. If it is, Associated sells a program card for that esc. Not as many tuning options as the HW 1080, but decent as you can program the reverse, braking, punch ect. I wish that esc had come with my Trailwalker as the SC400X is not programmable aside from 2 battery and 3 braking options.

[@rileykairc]

Just bought this as a kit with a waterproof 32kg servo and the hw fusion ESC combo and a few other changes like low profile shock mounts and a front mounted longer battery tray should be fun

[@Prototype_celsius]

I have one question and one problem, the question is is there a way to make the gatekeeper faster? And the problem is when I put in the larger battery tray the lid doesn’t fit on

[@scalebuildersguild]

Sure, you can change the pinion size. A larger pinion will garner more wheelspeed, but watch your motor temps!

[@Prototype_celsius]

@@scalebuildersguild i have no idea what a pinon is to be honest

[@RC4X4]

I just ordered a RTR. I like the paint scheme on the RTR and the the fact it comes with tires and wheels. I'll probably swap out the radio to my spektrum.

[@markciesiolka5828]

Got the RTR today ..love it going brushless soon

[@paulschryer9571]

Thankyou Associated/"Element" for the virtual continuation of the Axial "Tube-Chassis style" where the.... REAL, AXIAL left off !! 😉🤔....😁- Proud to have a great quality company like Element, take the reigns, and drive forward ! 👍 And thankyou Mr. Matt for the coverage of this RTR ! (PS).... The link you gave us, does not take us to your "said" RTR ! It just gives us a $299 KIT version still. !?! ?? ⏳-wait, I am guessing.... OR possible error w/ the computer stuff ?!? - Thanx again, have a good one ! 😁✌️

[@Overland_RC]

I think they did great considering it's using trail truck frame rails

[@Rocketman442-RC]

I love it. Cant wait to get one. Will probably buy a rtr at first then get the kit. Just like i did with my other Enduro. Element has really stepped up to the scale trail rigs with some awesome box stock performance

[@dawson91b]

I got a capra myself. I think I'll get one of these for the kids.

[@thomasgross8289]

I'm a rtr kinda guy I just wanna run it. I'll upgrade as stuff breaks.

[@barceloni1984]

Wife got me the fire red trailrunner last March. Been loving it, with just a few upgrades. Always been a fan of team associated since I first got into the hobby 20 years ago. Been wanting one of these for a while, but I already have a wraith. This seems very similar and way easier to work on. I hate working on my wraith. It has to be most of the way disassembled to get to the electronics and route wires. Maybe just swap my ar60 axles over to one of these? 🤔

[@scalebuildersguild]

Sounds like a fun project!

[@simonkubacki9823]

While waiting for the gatekeeper kit to come to Canada I picked up a used Bomber and it needed a lot of work, so very much like a kit. I finally saw it in the store the other day and it looks cool, but the bomber is bigger and I can cram more junk into it to make it look scale. Either way I would have been happy with both. My enduro is still treating me well. End of rant

[@RCRitterFPV]

hey, the post made it to .CA looks great, I mangled the paint on my side panel.... redo...

[@RuudK.]

RTR or KIT? Depends, I'd say. I bought a TRX4 Sport RTR, which is upgraded with some parts. Great truck; my first and I still have- and enjoy it. I also bought a Capra RTR. Also a great truck. Ofcourse this one also received some goodies. Very capable and lots of fun. Another is a RedCat Gen8 AXE edition, which is, in my opinion, one of the best RTR's one can get at the moment, since it already has all the upgrades one would do to a standard Gen8. But I'm also building a ZIL-157, 3D printed and based on a SCX10.2 chassis. Next to that I also own a custom build 6x6, which is almost all metal (except the body). My last purchase is an 'uncle Ali' chassis with all kinds of bits and parts from all over with a Rubicon hardbody. It's not really a kit but build from the ground up (as was my 6x6). And to be honest: I do like the looks of this Gatekeeper but I assume the Capra is a more capable truck. I don't think I'll get one. Still very happy with the little goat :-)

[@Firewlkre]

I like it especially the clamshell type cage, dont like digging into closed style, aka capra, wraith.I do the kits when available, building imo just as much fun as driving especially when you live where theres winter months to deal with.

[@scottbosworth9005]

kit! Always love building the trucks over just the RTR. Maybe sell one as a KIT with all the electronics...

[@stevemdelacruz5602]

I have the trail walker. i finally took it out of the box the other day.!Wow now i see what every body is talking about..compared to some others out there the quality is outstanding.thebgatekeeper looks to be the same

[@powcar91]

Im waiting for the trailing arms to come out, so i can use them. On my prerunner Enduro.

[@northsandiegorc4248]

Extreme RC4x4 makes a trailing arm kit for the enduro already, and it utilizes yeti arms so they are longer then elements, giving you smoother travel with less change in pinion angle.

[@northsandiegorc4248]

@Queef Sniffer hmm I would think with the longer the arm And the less drastic angle the better it would slide over rock 🤷🏻‍♂️ both the GKS and the yeti setup work really well

[@chainsaw7887]

I plan on getting the kit. I need a winter project.

[@kirkmurray5431]

I would get the RTR

[@kennethwelty1190]

Kit 1080 HW 1080 ecs Ihave them in all 3 Senduro 1 rtr 2 kits but Gatekeeper has a Firma system in it and a rc4wd 27 turn motor a Spectrym S605 servo and Smart 5C radio.

[@ateaserc]

I enjoyed building the kit with my own twists on it, may pick up a RTR to compare it with and let others use it for trail running. Great review as always

[@averyhubatch139]

I think you guys should do a monthly mayhem with SCX24's or another micro. SCT? Monster Truck? Something else? Maybe even a mini dragbolt.

[@bobsrcadventures2137]

I just got my Gatekeeper kit about an hour ago! I figured an RTR would be available soon, but I'm getting more into kits since, number 1; I've been watching SBG 😉 and 2; I love the fact that the kits almost always seem to come with more gooder stuff! 😁 Better shocks, stronger chassis, plus I usually end up upgrading my RTR's anyways sooooooo.......yeah. can't wait to see what the price point is set at for the RTR. Great Vid brother, as always 😁

[@edsadventures3575]

Definitely want the kit. Great vid as usual!

[@KTMcaptain]

Yes the capra is harder to work on, but it has better axles, dig, is wider, doesn't have a vestigial metal C channel frame, and can square up obstacles since its front end doesn't hang over the wheels. Did I mention the axles are better and reduce torque twist?

[@DargoDog]

Don't know if it is a good move or not, but I am selling my Bomber and getting one of these, kit version, of course. The Bomber is an ok rig (kit version, of course), but EXTREMELY annoying for a geeker and tweeker like me, having to disassemble the truck to get to the electronics. I have an Enduro kit version (of course), and other its lousy driver, I have enjoyed it, so I am hoping the Gatekeep provides a similar experience, only with a better driver.

[@brettwallick4885]

Have yet to do one but I would love to do a kit

[@stpbasss3773]

I did the kit and I love it.

[@PorkinsTheWhite]

I know comparing this to the Bomber is kind of pointless but I'm torn on the two. I really want an Ultra 4 type basher that I can bash around with and do some crawling too. Is it even worth trying that with the kit version or should I just get the Bomber? I really want to build something and make it my own and thats why I am leaning towards this but dont know if it will do what I want. Still fantastic review and the video work is amazing and made me want one even more.

[@scalebuildersguild]

For all the things you’ve mentioned, it’s hard to beat the Bomber.

[@PorkinsTheWhite]

@@scalebuildersguild Thank you! I just miss building something. But given how much I will eventually replace it’s almost the same thing. 😂😂

[@AvianOptical]

It looks nice, reminds me more of an axial bomber rather than the capra

[@mtgoat4434]

Great video when will the rtr be released?

[@hossrc420]

If I get one it will be the kit version. I love my enduro kit build with a vs4-10 chassis, its an awesome truck.

[@gigawattrc]

I think this competes with the 1.9 wraith if anything....

[@MsHigheagle]

I like the size of this buggy and maybe get the independent front set up and build the kit to look like the Campbell's monster energy race rig

[@BlindGuyRc]

I am definetly a fan of this. But I'm such an axial..... haha, so I don't know if I'd buy one. Id like to create a similar truck but with an axial cage on a scx10.2 or something.

[@3gearrc]

I cant wait to pick one up, i think they would be a blast with an ifs swap, brushless and a full body for a nice desert truck setup.

[@shaneclipse97]

In that case might as well get the enduro w ifs and put a body on it

[@3gearrc]

@@shaneclipse97 but then you wouldnt get the trailing arms and swaybar in the rear, or the cage.

[@shaneclipse97]

@@3gearrc well if ur going a full body route then you don't need the cage, and as far as the sway bar and trailing arms you found just pick up aftermarket ones and then you are getting literally only what you need and want

[@CharlieFultonSC]

so torn... I haven't purchased a new kit / rtr since building an scx10.2 kit when it released, and then a trx4 bronco. Can't decide between capra kit / rtr, scx 10.3 kit / gladiator rtr, or this...

[@jonthomas8487]

When is the Keymaster coming out???

[@sergelebel3135]

Fantastic review and great video content all across the board! I just purchased this truck by using your link in the description. I wanted to install an independant suspension (Element RC kit) but for some reason, it is no longer available anywhere! If you know of a suitable replacement, please let us know!! Thanks again for all the time and efforts you put in these videos, they are of the highest value to a new RC enthusiast like me! Sincerely, Serge Lebel The great Quebec North Shore , Canada

[@scalebuildersguild]

That's awesome! Thanks for the support! Right now there is not suitable other option for IFS currently, I imagine Element is revising the design.

[@BlueDually4x4]

Probably would go with a kit myself, and put the IFS on it like Freashsqueezed RC did with his. Just an awesome looking set up.

[@alexhardwick2855]

Hay matt can't wait to see what it's like after you fine tune it, loving the paint job on it looks really good. Thanks for the vid 👍🤘

[@rc-ingaroundamerica8792]

I've gotten into building rigs more then just buying an off the shelf system, I feel I enjoy the rigs more when I build them then buy them, lol

[@some19872003]

All i got to say is how many other companies put upgraded parts on their rtr trucks? Can’t even think of any other rtr’s that even come with a metal servo horn. Element is really killing it right now. Only think I can ever hope for to come out would be a comp rig but that will never happen since that market is so tiny. Also the gatekeeper should be compared more with the 1.9 wraith. Maybe axial will come out with a 1.9 bomber and then that would be a great comparison.

[@scalebuildersguild]

The 1.9 wraith doesn't have frame rails, so I don't think there's much of a comparison, really.

[@some19872003]

@@scalebuildersguild I was thinking they are closer to each other because how wide the axles are and also both not having portals.

[@billsrcadventures8806]

I own the kit. Not sure if the RTR is for me after seeing all that isn't the same as the kit. All the hard plastics in the kit were the deal sealer for me.

[@scalebuildersguild]

Agreed!

[@moosejawrc]

Building is half the fun and getting the quality of plastic is ideal!

[@lsswaptheworld9092]

I'd probably get the kit version. I think the gatekeeper would be fun as a rock bouncer. Just put castle electronics in it.

[@LRSTUDIOCREATIONS]

Hi, I love this but can't find an on/off button on the car itself? Is there one please ?

[@scalebuildersguild]

No, plug in the battery and go.

[@DieselJLUJeep]

It’s awesome and at the price almost unbeatable

[@AUBREYTHOMAS1979]

I like RTR these days. I have too many scratch builds I need to finish already that doing a kit just seems a mission at the moment. And besides all the mods you would do to the kit you going to do to and RTR anyway but at least you can thrash it out box and then choose the mods more wisely. Wise decision about mods? hahahaha.... I meant wildly

[@ronhormann5676]

Who you going to call?

[@danielkonrad1444]

Ghostbusters!

[@motododo4626]

Hey can you tell me by any chance what the battery size should be LxHxW? I dont wanna go ordering the wrong battery. I'm going to order everything at once to build this thing.

[@shaneclipse97]

Am I the only one wondering how this as a kite would do as a decent platform to make a class 3 rig out of? Not so much scale wise but in he comps I am a part of we just do classes with tire size and no scale points. So I was thinking this might not be a bad idea compared to say a capra

[@TestECull]

Bustin' makes me feeeel gooooddd~!

[@blakemullins1903]

I like the kits way better. Great video sir👍🏼

[@검은필름]

I'm always looking for good stuff! Is it possible to install IFS Conversion Kit on Gatekeeper? Please advise.

[@scalebuildersguild]

Yes it is! I just did it!

[@검은필름]

@@scalebuildersguildThank you for your good comments .

[@Cougar2ei4]

Quick question! Have you thought about adding the IFS kit? Would it be possible to make it 4 wheel steering?

[@scalebuildersguild]

You could do 4WS with a bracket for servo on axle, and IFS could definitely be a thing, but I wouldn't recommend it for this truck, purely from a capability standpoint.

[@Cougar2ei4]

@@scalebuildersguild So now I see you added IFS to your Gatekeeper? What changed your mind?

[@zonegamma8197]

Thanks for the review

[@49thparallelCanuck]

a would want a kit cus building is good for ur soul

[@zaxpage9003]

What motor did they put in it? And what is the gearing ? Is it set up for a little more speed?

[@scalebuildersguild]

16T 5 slot. Same gearing as any other Enduro.

[@RyanRKJ]

@@scalebuildersguild oh wow, I thought for sure they would make their rock racer faster than their trail truck.

[@lennywyatt9345]

The kit! For sure. I like building better that operating.

[@scalebuildersguild]

I'd say that I spend about 80% building and 20% driving!

[@rcintro1489]

Looks great, funny intro once it made sense hahaha! Sadly tho I've tried everything to keep my Bomber from flipping over and hearing you say this does the same it's a no go for me Keymaster!

[@slimfatpat]

I prefer kits. One of my first kits was the legandary tamiya tlt kit😅 and it still have it after all these years.

[@tooltymer3281]

I would have to go with the Kit I gotta make it my own!!!

[@前田秀樹-d8k]

初めまして。日本のラジコンカーの初心者です。今度この車を購入しようと思います。ステアリングサーボと受信器は防水性ですか？

[@scalebuildersguild]

コメントありがとうございます！ スピードコントローラーとサーボは防水仕様です。 だから、水しぶきで大丈夫なはずです！

[@前田秀樹-d8k]

有難うございます。

[@cesarurrutia6128]

So it’s pretty much an enduro except the rear trailing arms and body?

[@purepr2010]

RTR can always upgrade, you a funny 😁 guy.

[@nicolasleroy3796]

Ifs compatible or not ?

[@GeeShocker]

Yes, there already quite a number showing off in some FB groups.

[@stpbasss3773]

You can put the IFS on any element model......well besides the trailrunner which already has it lol.

[@前田秀樹-d8k]

もう一つ教えて下さい。このRTRのバッテリーはリポバッテリーのショートタイプですか？2S(7.4V)ですか？それとも、3S(11.1V)ですか？コネクターはT型でいいのですか？

[@scalebuildersguild]

No battery included but they want you to use the short pack.

[@grey-adventures]

I'd lean towards the kit. The electronics aren't suited for a rock racer and the hard parts are needed. Not bad though.

[@datboi3494]

is it water proof

[@johndavid5627]

frame is xtremely weak at the body hinge breaks right away battery tray is in small only

[@naillonaaron]

Kit for sure!

[@richysrc2158]

I have 2 element rc vehicls a rtr and a kit and both came with metal gears . Yet this comes with plastic , why would you take a step backwards?

[@scalebuildersguild]

When did I say it came with plastic gears?

[@richysrc2158]

@@scalebuildersguild shows it in the packet buddy 👍

[@scalebuildersguild]

@@richysrc2158 Many of the gears in the transmission are plastic, and always have been. I suggest you open yours up and find out!

[@richysrc2158]

@@scalebuildersguild i do ,and I have metal gears . My rtr kit has the same metal gears like I have in my builders kit .

[@scalebuildersguild]

@@richysrc2158 you must have a unicorn! Kits and builders kits have steel gears, the RTR’s have plastic. Confirmed by Element!

[@steveguimarin3303]

Friends don't let Friends drive stock!!!!!

[@stevenmortensen1257]

How much skill, knowledge, and equipment/supplies does kit building require ?

[@scalebuildersguild]

Not very much! A few decent hex drivers, a pair of pliers, grease, should be all you need.

[@GhostRider-ii7tz]

I’d get the kit.as I like to do the building.then pic the electronics and such.

[@celticdrones9592]

Take it off a cliff like the capra. Let see what its made of hehe. 🤘 great review as always

[@scalebuildersguild]

HAHAHAHAHAAHA