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Builder of the Month: Damrong Pradprueang (February 2026)

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For the February Builder of the Month feature, we invite Damrong Pradprueang, a Thai scale enthusiast whose journey from watching his father build full-size 4x4s has evolved into a passion for creating museum-quality rigs. Based in a country with one of the most vibrant RC communities in the world, Damrong not only builds award-winning vehicles but has also helped shape that community by co-founding tracks like the scenic RC Pattaya. True to his philosophy of "grinding an anvil into a needle," we discuss his meticulous process, his deep love for legendary 4x4s, and his ultimate dream build for the future.

Boom Racing:

Welcome, and congratulations on being Boom Racing’s Builder of the Month! Let’s kick things off at the beginning: How did you get your start in the RC world, and what was your very first vehicle?

Damrong Pradprueang:

My journey began in childhood, watching my father hand-build and maintain his own full-size 4x4 off-road rig. Seeing those big tires conquer any terrain left a lasting impression on me. That passion eventually led me to my first build: a Tamiya Clod Buster. After a long hiatus, I discovered the Axial SCX10.2, and seeing the incredible scale realism immediately drew me back into the hobby for good.

Boom Racing:

Being based in Thailand must bring some real advantages to trail running and possible locations for meets and events. What’s your favourite spot to run a rig or two?

Damrong Pradprueang:

Thailand has a vibrant RC community with diverse terrains. My top spots to run a rig are:

Scale Bangkhae: A hand-sculpted dirt track that perfectly mimics realistic off-road conditions. It’s the ideal balance of fun and focus; not too difficult, but requires full concentration to navigate.

Scale Sai 2: A newer, professionally designed track. It’s beautifully crafted with many tight, technical corners that truly challenge a driver’s precision and control.

RC Scale Thailand (Club 11 Bangkok): The hub for major events. Its versatile layout can be reconfigured for any challenge, providing invaluable experience for competitive scale driving.

RC Pattaya (at O-Kard Cafe): This one is special to me as I am one of the co-founders. Born from a passionate community of local drivers, we aimed to create one of the most beautiful and relaxing scale tracks in the country, nestled within a lush, shaded cafe atmosphere.

Boom Racing:

When did you first come across Boom Racing and what caught your attention?

Damrong Pradprueang:

I first discovered Boom Racing while searching for the most realistic Land Rover Defender 90 (D90) scale build. I was immediately captivated by the brand's attention to detail. What truly caught my attention was how the products were engineered—not just for looks, but with high-quality materials and functional designs that cater to both beginners and professional builders alike.

Boom Racing:

Can you tell us about your Boom Racing builds?

Damrong Pradprueang:

My primary Boom Racing build is the BRX02 88 Series II, which I poured my heart and soul into. I conducted extensive research to ensure every detail was period-correct, even using the authentic factory paint codes from that era. To push the realism further, I custom-designed and fabricated new door hinges to match the real vehicle's mechanism. I also scratch-built the roof structure and hand-stitched the canvas soft top, replicating the original design's stitching patterns and tie-down system exactly as it would appear on a full-scale Series II.

Boom Racing:

If we allowed you to choose any vehicle, from any era, and make it into a BRX-based kit, what would it be?

Damrong Pradprueang:

My absolute dream build on a BRX chassis would be the Land Rover Series III 109 Station Wagon (5-door). This vehicle holds a profound place in the hearts of all Thai people as it was the iconic rig used by our late King Rama IX during his tireless royal missions to reach and help his subjects in the most remote areas of the country. His dedication to his people is beyond comparison, and this vehicle symbolizes that legacy. I truly believe scale enthusiasts around the world are waiting for such a legendary model, and I hope Boom Racing can bring this dream to life.

Boom Racing:

What is the biggest tip you can give a new Boom Racing customer to aid their construction, or elevate their performance of a BRX-based rig?

Damrong Pradprueang:

My biggest tip is to 'Take your time and enjoy the engineering.' Boom Racing kits are designed with incredible precision. Don't just rush to finish it; study how each part functions together. Pay close attention to the shimming of the axles and the smoothness of the drivetrain. When you understand the mechanics behind the scale realism, the final build becomes much more rewarding to drive.

Boom Racing:

Explain your build process. Do you use real vehicles as inspiration and then translate them into an RC, or do you work a different way?

Damrong Pradprueang:

I usually start by finding a 1:1 reference vehicle that catches my eye, often from off-road expeditions or vintage catalogs. I study the chassis geometry and body details, then select a base RC chassis that matches those proportions. From there, it's a mix of custom fabrication and detail work to make the RC look like it could drive off a real dealership lot.

Boom Racing:

What’s more important: ‘Near scale looks and unrealistic performance’, or ‘Scale looks and scale performance?’

Damrong Pradprueang:

For me, 'Scale looks and scale performance' is the ultimate goal. The challenge lies in making a rig that not only looks like a real truck but also moves and reacts to the terrain like a multi-ton vehicle would. It forces you to drive more technically.

Boom Racing:

Who inspires you? Who is your favourite scale builder?

Damrong Pradprueang:

I draw inspiration from any builder who pays attention to the 'small things' weathering, interior details, and proper lighting. Anyone who can make a photo of an RC look like a real car is a winner in my book.

Boom Racing:

What’s the best piece of advice you can offer anyone wanting to get into building scale rigs?

Damrong Pradprueang:

Don't rush the process; building a scale rig is a marathon, not a sprint. Focus on one area at a time, and try to prioritize the details that bring out the true character of your build concept. Do your research thoroughly, and most importantly, don't be afraid to fail or redo a part—that’s where the best learning happens.

Boom Racing:

What’s on your workbench now, and what have you planned to incorporate into the build?

Damrong Pradprueang:

My current dream project on the workbench is the Toyota Land Cruiser 80. I am deeply inspired by its legacy as the 'King of Off-Road.' Just as Land Rover is often seen as the pinnacle of 4x4s in the West, the LC80 stands as a legendary icon from the East with an immortal charm. I plan to incorporate meticulous scale details that honor its rugged history, ensuring it captures the same timeless spirit and capability that made the original vehicle a world-renowned legend.

Boom Racing:

Lastly, what expression or saying in Thai really sums up how you feel about life, family, community and this hobby?

Damrong Pradprueang:

The Thai saying that perfectly captures my philosophy is "ฝนทั่งให้เป็นเข็ม" (Fon Thung Hai Pen Khem), which literally means 'to grind an anvil into a needle.' It represents the ultimate patience and perseverance required to turn something raw and heavy into a masterpiece of precision. This reflects how I approach life, my family, and this hobby—believing that through dedication, time, and attention to every tiny detail, we can create something truly extraordinary and lasting.