Andrew Buck, owner of Buckshot Racing just smiled and hit the throttle when I said, "Sure you wanna do this?" I gotta say I was impressed. We launched a healthy 50ft and landed on what felt like a feather bed. There just aren't enough O's in smooth to describe how plush his new 5 seater car is through the rough stuff. With 26" of travel up front, 24" in the rear, and top of the line King coil over and bypass shocks. This suspension will soak up the nastiest terrain the desert can dish up.

Coil over and bypass King Shocks are mounted both front and rear.

   The car we tested is his pre-runner model. Equipped with a brand new 32 valve aluminum Cadillac Northstar V-8 crate motor, this car hauls ass. Pumping out a whopping 380hp through a Mendeola transaxle, Porsche 930 CV's and 300M axles. The car is fast, very fast. Wheelies all the way up the face of Glamis' Oldsmobile hill are a simple matter of stepping on the gas. And if you are a total nut you can opt for a turbocharger.

   Every component is top notch, chromoly frame and suspension arms, Auto Meter gauges, Sand Tires Unlimited, Hella, CNC, you want the best? Here it is. Be sure to check out Buckshot's excellent website, there is more information there on the entire product line then this writer has the time to type. Buckshot has several models to chose from, as well as engine/transaxle combinations. Not to mention custom accessories, paint and all manner of exotic goodies.

   Every car is custom built to order. When you're plunking down the kind of money one of these new generation long-travel sand cars can cost you should expect special attention. Buckshot spends a great deal of effort in helping you design a car that will fit your needs and expectations. And involves their customers in the design and testing of their custom built car. Sure you can buy a "turn key" car off the rack. That is of course if you want to be an individual, just like everyone else!

Click any image to enlarge, or to get to ALL the photos! Click here: photo gallery.

A Cadillac Northstar 32 valve V-8 delivers 380hp. A turbocharger is optional for lunatics.	Hand built exhaust headers, Porsche CV's, Beard's limiting straps with pivoting clevis and King shocks.	The end of the car you're most likely to see!
Oil pressure, water temp and voltmeter by Auto Meter.	The drivers compartment is well laid out, roomy and businesslike. Beard Racing Seats are standard.	CNC pedals are set up for heel and toe braking, the clutch pedals outboard position allows for more comfortable stance.
Wings are the thing these days, not that they do much...	But on a Buckshot car they have a valuable function, plenty of room for a few sweatshirts, goggles, tool kit and some spares.	Hella's new Rally 4000 driving lamps handle the lighting chores.
With a 54" wide Beard rear seat you have plenty of room for 3 kids or your buddies to chip in on gas.	Front and rear suspension arms are TIG welded  4130 chromoly steel, axles on this car are 300M units with 930 CV's and race cages.	A Mendeola MD4S transaxle is almost indestructible.
Another car on hand was this one with a 420hp turbocharged VW Passat motor.	Enough said...	Custom paint, frame powder coating and chrome complete one of the finest cars on the market.

So what are you doing this weekend?

Video Clips:

Olds Double Jump   Whoops

More Air   More Whoops

   New generation long-travel cars are a major investment. with prices starting at $25,000 and climbing over $60,000 for an ultra trick car, you need to be a careful shopper. Plan your purchase wisely and make sure that the builder you choose will deliver your car on time and in budget. From what I've seen so far, Buckshot Racing's X-5 should definitely be on your list of cars to consider. Stay tuned when next month we put the car through it's paces at Glamis and give you our first hand driving impressions.

   Until then be sure to check out Buckshot's Website, its one of the best sites I've seen from a car builder, with dozens of photos, complete specs and prices. As well as the ability to order replacement parts! See you in the Dunes!

www.buckshotracing.com

Buckshot Racing
520 West Central Ave.
Brea, Ca 92821

(714) 255-1660

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