Chris Hamilton
.
May 29, 2026
.
Features
.
AS SEEN IN OUR FEBRUARY 2026 ISSUE – Buy Now!
As we kick off 2026 with this January issue, the custom truck world feels more vibrant than ever—a testament to the builders, events, and innovations that keep our community rolling strong. From engine-swapped classics to full-custom late models, this month’s feature vehicles capture the grit and creativity that define our scene and were each specifically chosen to inspire your next garage session.
Our cover story dives into Ramiro Villarreal’s 2020 Chevrolet Silverado named Hustler, which sits on 28-inch Billet Specialties wheels and lays flat on the pavement. Also check out Chelsey Henning’s Haterproof 1986 Ford Bronco, a Canadian powerhouse with a 1998 3.9L Cummins swap, Eibach springs, and a vibrant Tropical Breeze powdercoated frame that turns heads while conquering trails. Then there’s Hersa Motors’ Texas Tradition, a 2025 Ford F-150 transformed with a Platinum front end, IHC suspension, and Raceline wheels for a luxury-meets-low stance that’s already dominating the show circuit. We also revisit the 2025 SEMA Show, highlighting over forty new parts, including Mickey Thompson’s MT Classic Forged wheels, which stole the show this year.
Robert Espino’s La Nemo, a 1979 Ford F-150 Lariat 4×4, blends factory charm with a rebuilt 351 V8, Rancho lift, and Wilwood brakes for a timeless cruiser that’s as capable as it is clean. Devan Ence reports from the F-100 Grand Nationals in Pigeon Forge, where over 1,200 Ford trucks, from mid-1950s patina’d originals to ‘90s show queens, created a family reunion vibe that’s impossible to forget. Chad Rapee’s Cat-I-gory 6, a 2006 Chevy Silverado born from hurricane recovery, features a body-dropped frame, US Mags Conroe 6 wheels, and hidden evacuation-route graphics that turn personal hardship into automotive art. Finally, Joe Acevedo covers the Atlanta Truck Invasion, where Sal, Adrian, Eduardo, and Acosta orchestrated a humidity-defying gathering of slammed OBS Chevys and lifted beasts that solidified the Dirty South’s truck supremacy.
These stories aren’t just about metal and mods; they’re about the people behind them, along with the late nights, the breakthroughs, and the unbreakable passion that fuels us all.
These stories aren’t just about metal and mods; they’re about the people behind them, along with the late nights, the breakthroughs, and the unbreakable passion that fuels us all. As Editor-in-Chief, I see 2026 as a year of bold evolution, with more sustainable swaps, smarter tech, and events that bring us together like never before.
What about you? What’s your goal for the year ahead—a full frame-off, a cross-country haul, or finally tackling that engine upgrade? Share your plans, and your story might just make our next issue.!
Chris Hamilton is an automotive journalist, editor, and lifelong truck enthusiast with extensive experience covering custom truck builds, fabrication, performance upgrades, aftermarket products, and a ...
F100 Builders
No, Not that Red Ranger AT SOME POINT IN LIFE, YOU BECOME exposed to a classic truck and it just stays with you. Whatever it… Continue reading
SOLOMON LUNGER . November 24, 2023
Department
A New Suit for Project Artemis If you remember from the last issue, we dropped off our 1998 GMC Sierra known as Project Artemis to… Continue reading
Chris Hamilton . August 11, 2021
Department
An Oasis in the Nevada Desert Forbidden Fantasy Show and Shine 2023 was held at the Laughlin River Lodge Hotel and Casino in Laughlin, Nevada, on… Continue reading
JONATHAN HAWKINS . August 03, 2023
Department
AZ Pro Performance Front and Rear Disc Brakes for GMT400 Trucks Let’s face it: These trucks have a perfect wheelbase, amazing body styling and, when they… Continue reading
Chris Hamilton . August 25, 2020
Blood Sweat and Gears
Just when you thought Halloween was over , we bring you Katelynn Holdens “Nightmare” Nightmare Chevy’s conception began at Mini Truckin Nationals 2018. Katelynn Holden… Continue reading
Adam Johnson . November 01, 2021
C10 Builders Guide
The Turkey Run is the largest combined Collector Car Show, Swap Meet and Car Corral in the USA. Car enthusiasts from across the US and… Continue reading
Chris Hamilton . June 23, 2021
We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalized ads or content, and analyze our traffic. By clicking "Accept All", you consent to our use of cookies. Visit our Cookie Policy for more info.
Share Link