10 Best Hardened Pinion Gears for Smooth & Durable RC Performance

Looking for the best hardened pinion gears to upgrade your RC car?
I’ve tested dozens myself and narrowed down the top 10 that deliver smooth performance, long-lasting durability, and precise control.

Looking for the best hardened pinion gears for your RC car? You’re in the right place. These gears are built to last, run smooth, and stay quiet.

I’ve tested dozens of gear sets on my own RC buggy. The right gear makes a huge difference in speed and control.

This guide will help you find the perfect fit for your motor shaft. You’ll learn which gears give the best performance and durability. Let’s dive into the world of precision power.

List of Top 10 Hardened Pinion Gears

Image Title Best For Price
32P Hardened Pinion Gear Set 1/8 inch Hole 12T 13T 14T 15T 16T with Hex Key (Compatible with 0.8 Metric Pitch) 32P Hardened Pinion Gear Set 1/8 inch Hole 12T 13T 14T 15T 16T with Hex Key (Compatible with 0.8 Metric Pitch)

This gear set is perfect for hobbyists who love building and customizing RC cars. It offers smooth performance and durability with different gear options for speed control.

OGRC 32P 5mm Pinion Gear 17T 18T 19T 20T 21T Hardened Metal Pinion Motor Gear Set for RC Buggy Car Monster Truck(Compatible with 0.8 Metric Pitch) OGRC 32P 5mm Pinion Gear 17T 18T 19T 20T 21T Hardened Metal Pinion Motor Gear Set for RC Buggy Car Monster Truck(Compatible with 0.8 Metric Pitch)

This gear set is perfect for anyone who loves RC cars, like buggies or monster trucks, and wants a smooth, quiet, and durable performance. It’s great for hobbyists who need multiple gear ratio options to fine-tune their vehicle’s speed and performance.

OGRC Steel Hardened 32P Pinion Gears 10T 11T 12T 13T 14T 3.175mm Shaft for Traxxas Arrma HSP HPI AXIAL Tamiya Losi 1/10 RC Car OGRC Steel Hardened 32P Pinion Gears 10T 11T 12T 13T 14T 3.175mm Shaft for Traxxas Arrma HSP HPI AXIAL Tamiya Losi 1/10 RC Car

This gear set is perfect for RC car lovers who want more speed or torque. If you enjoy tuning your car for better performance, this is for you.

5-Pack Black Steel Metal 32P 5mm Pinion Motor Gear Sets 17T 18T 19T 20T 21T Compatible with HPI Kyosho Losi Axial Tamiya 1/8 1/10 RC Car Monster Truck Buggy 5-Pack Black Steel Metal 32P 5mm Pinion Motor Gear Sets 17T 18T 19T 20T 21T Compatible with HPI Kyosho Losi Axial Tamiya 1/8 1/10 RC Car Monster Truck Buggy

This gear set is perfect for RC car lovers who want strong, long-lasting parts. If you race or bash your 1/8 or 1/10 scale RC truck or buggy, these metal pinion gears will keep your motor running smooth.

5Pack ShareGoo Steel 48P 3.175mm Pinion Gear Sets 23T 24T 25T 26T 27T fit 3.175mm (1/8-Inch) Shaft Compatible with Arrma HPI Kyosho Losi Axial Traxxas Tamiya Associated 1/10 RC Car Monster Truck Buggy 5Pack ShareGoo Steel 48P 3.175mm Pinion Gear Sets 23T 24T 25T 26T 27T fit 3.175mm (1/8-Inch) Shaft Compatible with Arrma HPI Kyosho Losi Axial Traxxas Tamiya Associated 1/10 RC Car Monster Truck Buggy

This gear set is perfect for RC car lovers who want a quick and strong upgrade. If you drive a 1/10 scale monster truck, buggy, or racing car, these gears will fit and perform great.

OGRC 2Pcs 32P 11T Hardened Steel Pinion Gear for Traxxas Slash 4x4 Rustler Hoss TRX4 TRX6 RC Car Replace #6747 OGRC 2Pcs 32P 11T Hardened Steel Pinion Gear for Traxxas Slash 4×4 Rustler Hoss TRX4 TRX6 RC Car Replace #6747

This gear set is perfect for RC car lovers who want strong, smooth, and easy-to-install upgrades. If you race, bash, or crawl, these gears keep your car running fast and steady.

Hardened Steel Upgrade Pinion Gear Set: 13T 14T 15T 16T fit 5mm RC Motor Shaft (Work with Steel Spur Gears) for RC Vehicles, Set of 4 Hardened Steel Upgrade Pinion Gear Set: 13T 14T 15T 16T fit 5mm RC Motor Shaft (Work with Steel Spur Gears) for RC Vehicles, Set of 4

This gear set is perfect for RC hobbyists who want strong, reliable performance. If you run 1/8 or 1/10 scale trucks or buggies with a 5mm motor shaft, these gears are a great fit.

ShareGoo Mod 1 Hardened Steel M1 Pinion Gear Sets 15T 16T 17T 18T fit 5mm RC Motor Shaft Compatible with Arrma Traxxas Axial HSP Redcat Losi 1/8 1/10 Scale RC Car Truck Buggy ShareGoo Mod 1 Hardened Steel M1 Pinion Gear Sets 15T 16T 17T 18T fit 5mm RC Motor Shaft Compatible with Arrma Traxxas Axial HSP Redcat Losi 1/8 1/10 Scale RC Car Truck Buggy

This gear set is perfect for RC car lovers who want more speed, control, and durability. If you enjoy tuning and racing your 1/8 or 1/10 scale RC car or truck, this set gives you the flexibility to match any track.

5Pack ShareGoo Steel 48P 3.175mm Pinion Gear Sets 13T 14T 15T 16T 17T fit 3.175mm (1/8-Inch) Shaft Compatible with Arrma HPI Kyosho Losi Axial Traxxas Tamiya Associated 1/10 RC Car Monster Truck Buggy 5Pack ShareGoo Steel 48P 3.175mm Pinion Gear Sets 13T 14T 15T 16T 17T fit 3.175mm (1/8-Inch) Shaft Compatible with Arrma HPI Kyosho Losi Axial Traxxas Tamiya Associated 1/10 RC Car Monster Truck Buggy

Perfect for RC car lovers who want a strong gear upgrade that fits just right. If your motor shaft is 3.175mm, this set makes it easy to install and run smoother.

5Pack ShareGoo Steel 48P 3.175mm Pinion Gear Sets 18T 19T 20T 21T 22T fit 3.175mm (1/8-Inch) Shaft Compatible with Arrma HPI Kyosho Losi Axial Traxxas Tamiya Associated 1/10 RC Car Monster Truck Buggy 5Pack ShareGoo Steel 48P 3.175mm Pinion Gear Sets 18T 19T 20T 21T 22T fit 3.175mm (1/8-Inch) Shaft Compatible with Arrma HPI Kyosho Losi Axial Traxxas Tamiya Associated 1/10 RC Car Monster Truck Buggy

This gear set is perfect for RC car lovers who want a strong, easy upgrade for their 1/10 scale vehicles. If your motor shaft is 3.175mm, this set fits like a glove.

Detailed Reviews

Discover the Best Hardened Pinion Gears with this expert-reviewed guide. We’ve selected the top 10 picks based on performance, durability, and value. Find the perfect gear set to upgrade your RC car with confidence and ease.

1. 32P Hardened Pinion Gear Set 1/8 inch Hole 12T 13T 14T 15T 16T with Hex Key (Compatible with 0.8 Metric Pitch)

32P Hardened Pinion Gear Set 1/8 inch Hole 12T 13T 14T 15T 16T with Hex Key (Compatible with 0.8 Metric Pitch)

Get smoother rides and quieter performance with this 32P Hardened Pinion Gear Set. It’s built tough and rolls clean.

Choose from five gear sizes—12T, 13T, 14T, 15T, and 16T. Each gear is made from hardened metal for long-lasting use. The set includes a hex key for easy installation.

These gears are compatible with 0.8 metric pitch. They reduce noise and improve motion. Just match the pitch with your spur gear for perfect fit.

Pros Cons
  • Runs smooth with less noise and better performance
  • Hardened metal gears for long-lasting durability
  • Five gear sizes for flexible speed control
  • Perfect pitch match for easy gear meshing
  • Includes hex key for quick and easy setup
  • Limited Compatibility: Not suitable for all gear systems.
  • Needs Expertise: Requires precise installation and adjustment.

Perfect For:

This gear set is perfect for hobbyists who love building and customizing RC cars. It offers smooth performance and durability with different gear options for speed control.

Ready to Purchase?

2. OGRC 32P 5mm Pinion Gear 17T 18T 19T 20T 21T Hardened Metal Pinion Motor Gear Set for RC Buggy Car Monster Truck(Compatible with 0.8 Metric Pitch)

OGRC 32P 5mm Pinion Gear 17T 18T 19T 20T 21T Hardened Metal Pinion Motor Gear Set for RC Buggy Car Monster Truck(Compatible with 0.8 Metric Pitch)

Get ready for smooth power and quiet performance. This OGRC 32P Pinion Gear Set is built with precision machining to reduce noise and friction. You’ll feel the difference every time your RC car hits the track.

Made from hardened metal, these gears are built to last. They stay strong even under tough conditions.

Choose from five gear sizes to match your speed needs. Fits motors with a 5mm shaft. Comes with a hex key for easy setup.

Pros Cons
  • Smooth performance with less noise and friction
  • Hardened metal gears for extra durability
  • Five gear sizes for flexible speed control
  • Perfect fit for 5mm motor shafts
  • Easy install with included hex key
  • Not compatible with motor shafts smaller than 5mm
  • Requires matching pitch spur gear for proper fit
  • No storage box included for organizing the gear set

Perfect For:

This gear set is perfect for anyone who loves RC cars, like buggies or monster trucks, and wants a smooth, quiet, and durable performance. It’s great for hobbyists who need multiple gear ratio options to fine-tune their vehicle’s speed and performance.

Ready to Purchase?

3. OGRC Steel Hardened 32P Pinion Gears 10T 11T 12T 13T 14T 3.175mm Shaft for Traxxas Arrma HSP HPI AXIAL Tamiya Losi 1/10 RC Car

OGRC Steel Hardened 32P Pinion Gears 10T 11T 12T 13T 14T 3.175mm Shaft for Traxxas Arrma HSP HPI AXIAL Tamiya Losi 1/10 RC Car

Upgrade your RC car with OGRC Steel Hardened 32P Pinion Gears. Built from strong hardened steel, these gears are made to last through tough races and rough terrain.

Choose from five gear sizes—10T, 11T, 12T, 13T, and 14T. Fit them on 3.175mm shaft motors with ease. Enjoy smooth power transfer and better control.

Each set includes five gears, five M4 set screws, and a 2mm hex wrench. No extra tools needed. Just install and drive.

Pros Cons
  • Hardened steel build for unbeatable strength and durability
  • Includes 5 gear sizes to fine-tune speed or torque
  • Fits 3.175mm shaft motors with a secure, snug grip
  • Works with multiple motor types for wide compatibility
  • Comes with tools included for fast, easy installation
  • Not compatible with motors over 3.175mm shaft size
  • Steel gears may add slight weight to lightweight builds
  • Limited tooth range—may not suit extreme speed setups

Perfect For:

This gear set is perfect for RC car lovers who want more speed or torque. If you enjoy tuning your car for better performance, this is for you.

Ready to Purchase?

4. 5-Pack Black Steel Metal 32P 5mm Pinion Motor Gear Sets 17T 18T 19T 20T 21T Compatible with HPI Kyosho Losi Axial Tamiya 1/8 1/10 RC Car Monster Truck Buggy

5-Pack Black Steel Metal 32P 5mm Pinion Motor Gear Sets 17T 18T 19T 20T 21T Compatible with HPI Kyosho Losi Axial Tamiya 1/8 1/10 RC Car Monster Truck Buggy

Upgrade your RC car with this 5-Pack Black Steel Pinion Gear Set. Built tough for high-speed fun and smooth control.

Each gear is made of hardened steel. Fits 5mm motor shafts. Works with 1/8 and 1/10 scale RC cars.

Choose from 17T to 21T for perfect torque and speed. These gears are durable, reusable, and easy to install. Just check your motor shaft and gear pitch before use.

Pros Cons
  • Hardened steel gears built for long-lasting durability
  • Includes five sizes for perfect gear tuning
  • Fits most 1/8 and 1/10 RC cars
  • Designed for 5mm motor shafts—no guesswork needed
  • Smooth 32 pitch teeth for reliable power transfer
  • Not compatible with motors under 5mm shaft size
  • Requires matching pitch—won’t work with mismatched gears
  • No instructions included for beginners

Perfect For:

This gear set is perfect for RC car lovers who want strong, long-lasting parts. If you race or bash your 1/8 or 1/10 scale RC truck or buggy, these metal pinion gears will keep your motor running smooth.

Ready to Purchase?

5. 5Pack ShareGoo Steel 48P 3.175mm Pinion Gear Sets 23T 24T 25T 26T 27T fit 3.175mm (1/8-Inch) Shaft Compatible with Arrma HPI Kyosho Losi Axial Traxxas Tamiya Associated 1/10 RC Car Monster Truck Buggy

5Pack ShareGoo Steel 48P 3.175mm Pinion Gear Sets 23T 24T 25T 26T 27T fit 3.175mm (1/8-Inch) Shaft Compatible with Arrma HPI Kyosho Losi Axial Traxxas Tamiya Associated 1/10 RC Car Monster Truck Buggy

This 5-pack of steel pinion gears is made for 1/10 scale RC cars. It fits motors with a 3.175mm (1/8-inch) shaft. The set includes 23T, 24T, 25T, 26T, and 27T gears.

Each gear is made from hardened steel, so it’s strong and lasts long. The 48 pitch teeth help with smooth driving. These gears are easy to install and come with grub screws.

They work with many brands like Traxxas, Arrma, Losi, and Tamiya. A great upgrade for your RC car, buggy, or truck.

Pros Cons
  • Durable hardened steel construction.
  • Easy to install with included grub screws.
  • Wide compatibility with major RC car brands.
  • Perfect fit for 3.175mm motor shafts.
  • Reusable and long-lasting pinion gears.
  • Not compatible with motors using different shaft sizes
  • Won’t mesh if pitch doesn’t match your spur gear
  • Requires checking fit before installation—no one-size-fits-all

Perfect For:

This gear set is perfect for RC car lovers who want a quick and strong upgrade. If you drive a 1/10 scale monster truck, buggy, or racing car, these gears will fit and perform great.

Ready to Purchase?

6. OGRC 2Pcs 32P 11T Hardened Steel Pinion Gear for Traxxas Slash 4×4 Rustler Hoss TRX4 TRX6 RC Car Replace #6747

OGRC 2Pcs 32P 11T Hardened Steel Pinion Gear for Traxxas Slash 4x4 Rustler Hoss TRX4 TRX6 RC Car Replace #6747

The OGRC 2Pcs 32P 11T Hardened Steel Pinion Gear is perfect for your RC car. It fits motors with a 3.175mm shaft. This ensures smooth and efficient power transfer.

Made from hardened steel, these gears are strong and durable. They resist wear and last longer.

The package includes 2 gears, 2 set screws, and a hex wrench. Installation is quick and easy with no extra tools needed.

Pros Cons
  • Hardened steel gears for unbeatable durability and strength
  • Fits 3.175mm shafts for smooth, secure power transfer
  • Includes tools for fast, easy installation
  • Perfect for Traxxas upgrades and gear replacements
  • Handles rough terrain with steady, reliable performance
  • Limited Compatibility: Only fits 3.175mm shaft motors.
  • Requires Precision: Installation may need careful alignment.

Perfect For:

This gear set is perfect for RC car lovers who want strong, smooth, and easy-to-install upgrades. If you race, bash, or crawl, these gears keep your car running fast and steady.

Ready to Purchase?

7. Hardened Steel Upgrade Pinion Gear Set: 13T 14T 15T 16T fit 5mm RC Motor Shaft (Work with Steel Spur Gears) for RC Vehicles, Set of 4

Hardened Steel Upgrade Pinion Gear Set: 13T 14T 15T 16T fit 5mm RC Motor Shaft (Work with Steel Spur Gears) for RC Vehicles, Set of 4

Upgrade your RC vehicle with strong, reliable, and precise power. This gear set includes 4 hardened steel pinions: 13T, 14T, 15T, and 16T. Each one fits a 5mm motor shaft and works perfectly with steel spur gears.

Made from hardened steel, these gears are built to last. They do not work with plastic or aluminum spur gears.

You’ll get 4 gears, 4 grub screws, and 1 L wrench in the package. Perfect for 1/8 and 1/10 scale RC trucks and buggies.

Pros Cons
  • Hardened steel gears built for extreme durability
  • Fits 5mm motor shafts on popular RC models
  • Includes four gear sizes for flexible performance
  • Works perfectly with steel spur gears
  • Comes with grub screws and L wrench for easy install
  • Not Compatible with plastic or aluminum spur gears.
  • Limited Size Range for 5mm motor shafts only.

Perfect For:

This gear set is perfect for RC hobbyists who want strong, reliable performance. If you run 1/8 or 1/10 scale trucks or buggies with a 5mm motor shaft, these gears are a great fit.

Ready to Purchase?

8. ShareGoo Mod 1 Hardened Steel M1 Pinion Gear Sets 15T 16T 17T 18T fit 5mm RC Motor Shaft Compatible with Arrma Traxxas Axial HSP Redcat Losi 1/8 1/10 Scale RC Car Truck Buggy

ShareGoo Mod 1 Hardened Steel M1 Pinion Gear Sets 15T 16T 17T 18T fit 5mm RC Motor Shaft Compatible with Arrma Traxxas Axial HSP Redcat Losi 1/8 1/10 Scale RC Car Truck Buggy

Upgrade your RC car with ShareGoo Mod 1 Hardened Steel M1 Pinion Gear Sets. These gears fit 5mm motor shafts and work with Mod 1 spur gears. Made from hardened steel, they’re built to last and easy to reuse.

You get four gears: 15T, 16T, 17T, and 18T. They’re easy to install and perfect for custom gear setups.

Pros Cons
  • Durable hardened steel for long-lasting use.
  • Universal fit for multiple RC car brands.
  • Easy to install with included grub screws.
  • Multiple gear options for different track conditions.
  • Not compatible with non-Mod 1 spur gears
  • Requires monitoring to prevent ESC/motor overheating
  • Limited to 5mm shafts—won’t fit smaller motors

Perfect For:

This gear set is perfect for RC car lovers who want more speed, control, and durability. If you enjoy tuning and racing your 1/8 or 1/10 scale RC car or truck, this set gives you the flexibility to match any track.

Ready to Purchase?

9. 5Pack ShareGoo Steel 48P 3.175mm Pinion Gear Sets 13T 14T 15T 16T 17T fit 3.175mm (1/8-Inch) Shaft Compatible with Arrma HPI Kyosho Losi Axial Traxxas Tamiya Associated 1/10 RC Car Monster Truck Buggy

5Pack ShareGoo Steel 48P 3.175mm Pinion Gear Sets 13T 14T 15T 16T 17T fit 3.175mm (1/8-Inch) Shaft Compatible with Arrma HPI Kyosho Losi Axial Traxxas Tamiya Associated 1/10 RC Car Monster Truck Buggy

The 5Pack ShareGoo Steel 48P Pinion Gear Sets are perfect for upgrading your 1/10 RC cars, monster trucks, and buggies. They fit motors with a 3.175mm (1/8-Inch) shaft size.

These hardened steel gears are durable and reusable. The set includes 13T, 14T, 15T, 16T, and 17T gears. Each gear has a 48 pitch and a 9mm height.

This set is compatible with Arrma, HPI, Kyosho, Losi, Axial, Traxxas, Tamiya, and Associated models. It comes with grub screws for easy installation. Upgrade your RC vehicle effortlessly with these reliable pinion gears.

Pros Cons
  • Fits perfectly with 3.175mm shaft motors.
  • Strong steel build for long-lasting performance.
  • Five gear sizes for flexible speed tuning.
  • Easy upgrade for 1/10 RC cars and trucks.
  • Quick install with included grub screws.
  • Not compatible with motors using different shaft sizes
  • Won’t mesh if pitch doesn’t match your spur gear
  • Requires checking fit before installation—no one-size-fits-all

Perfect For:

Perfect for RC car lovers who want a strong gear upgrade that fits just right. If your motor shaft is 3.175mm, this set makes it easy to install and run smoother.

Ready to Purchase?

10. 5Pack ShareGoo Steel 48P 3.175mm Pinion Gear Sets 18T 19T 20T 21T 22T fit 3.175mm (1/8-Inch) Shaft Compatible with Arrma HPI Kyosho Losi Axial Traxxas Tamiya Associated 1/10 RC Car Monster Truck Buggy

5Pack ShareGoo Steel 48P 3.175mm Pinion Gear Sets 18T 19T 20T 21T 22T fit 3.175mm (1/8-Inch) Shaft Compatible with Arrma HPI Kyosho Losi Axial Traxxas Tamiya Associated 1/10 RC Car Monster Truck Buggy

Upgrade your RC car with the 5Pack ShareGoo Steel 48P Pinion Gear Set. These gears are tough, precise, and built to last.

Each gear fits a 3.175mm (1/8-Inch) motor shaft. Made of hardened steel, they’re strong and reusable. You get five sizes: 18T, 19T, 20T, 21T, and 22T.

Installation is quick and easy. The set includes grub screws for a secure fit. Perfect for Arrma, HPI, Kyosho, Losi, Axial, Traxxas, Tamiya, and Associated 1/10 RC cars.

Pros Cons
  • Fits perfectly on 3.175mm motor shafts—no guesswork needed.
  • Durable steel construction stands up to tough RC action.
  • Five gear sizes for flexible speed and torque tuning.
  • Easy to install with included grub screws—no hassle.
  • Compatible with top RC brands like Traxxas and Tamiya.
  • Not compatible with motors using different shaft sizes
  • Won’t mesh if pitch doesn’t match your spur gear
  • Requires checking fit before install—no one-size-fits-all

Perfect For:

This gear set is perfect for RC car lovers who want a strong, easy upgrade for their 1/10 scale vehicles. If your motor shaft is 3.175mm, this set fits like a glove.

Ready to Purchase?

Buying Guide

Looking for the best hardened pinion gears for your RC car? You’ve come to the right place. These gears are tough, smooth, and quiet.

I’ve tested dozens of gear sets on my own RC buggy. The difference in speed and control with the right gear is amazing.

Factors to Consider When Buying:

  • Material: Look for hardened steel. It’s durable and lasts longer under stress.

  • Pitch: Match the gear pitch with your spur gear. Common pitches are 32P and 48P.

  • Shaft Size: Ensure the gear fits your motor shaft. Common sizes are 3.175mm and 5mm.

  • Tooth Count: Choose the right tooth count for your speed needs. More teeth can mean more speed, fewer teeth can mean more torque.

  • Compatibility: Check if the gear is compatible with your RC model. Brands like Traxxas, Arrma, and Tamiya often have specific requirements.

  • Installation: Look for sets that include hex keys or grub screws. This makes installation easier.

Selecting the right pinion gear can greatly enhance your RC car’s performance. Make sure to consider these factors for a seamless upgrade.