I believe hobbies can reveal a side of you that everyday routines often hide. When I came across Zak’s Hobbies, I found the idea interesting because hobbies are not just ways to pass the time,they can help you explore new interests, build skills, and enjoy something that is truly your own.
If you’re looking for inspiration or wondering which hobby might fit your personality, you can use this topic as a starting point. Whether you enjoy creative projects, collecting, learning, or simply trying something different, Zaks Hobbies can spark ideas that make your free time more enjoyable.
What Are Zak’s Hobbies?
Zaks Hobbies is an RC hobby store located at 366 Wheat Road, Suite A, Vineland, New Jersey 08360. The store is listed in Horizon Hobby’s current authorized-partner directory, which identifies it as a Horizon Certified Partner, Level 3, and lists RC products and support services associated with the business.
The store’s current listing identifies several major RC brands available there, including:
- ARRMA
- Axial
- Losi
- Spektrum
These brands cover different areas of the radio-control hobby, from off-road vehicles and trucks to electronics and related RC equipment.
Zaks Hobbies also has a substantial history within the South Jersey RC community. Older RC racing discussions document the store operating as Zak’s Hobbies & Raceway, with both indoor and outdoor racing activities and classes for different RC vehicle scales.
What Can You Do at Zaks Hobbies?
Zaks Hobbies is more than a place to purchase an RC vehicle. Its current Horizon Hobby listing specifically identifies three notable services:
- Off-road track
- On-road track
- Setup and repair service
That combination makes the store useful to both people buying their first RC vehicle and experienced hobbyists who need somewhere to run, tune, or repair their models.
RC Cars and Trucks
RC cars and trucks are at the center of the hobby supported by Zaks Hobbies. Depending on the vehicle and intended use, RC enthusiasts can get involved with:
- Off-road trucks
- On-road cars
- Racing vehicles
- Electric RC models
- Other radio-controlled vehicles and accessories
For beginners, an important distinction is whether you want an RC vehicle primarily for casual driving or for organized racing. A racing-oriented model may require more setup and maintenance than a ready-to-run vehicle intended for recreational use.
On-Road RC Racing
On-road RC vehicles are designed around relatively smooth surfaces and emphasize handling, cornering, acceleration, and consistent lap performance.
Historical records show that Zaks Hobbies hosted on-road racing in multiple scales and classes, including 1/12-scale and 1/10-scale vehicles.
Those historical schedules should not be treated as a current race calendar, but they demonstrate the store’s long-standing connection with organized RC racing.
Off-Road RC
Off-road RC introduces a different driving experience. Vehicles are designed to handle uneven surfaces, jumps, loose terrain, and other obstacles.
Historical event records associated with Zaks Hobbies describe 1/8-scale monster trucks and buggies competing in off-road events at the Vineland location.
The current Horizon Hobby listing also confirms that the location has an off-road track onsite.
Does Zaks Hobbies Have an RC Track?
Yes. The current Horizon Hobby listing identifies both an off-road track and an on-road track at Zaks Hobbies.
This is significant for RC hobbyists because an RC track provides a more structured environment than simply driving a vehicle in a driveway or parking lot.
A dedicated track can help you:
- Practice consistent driving lines
- Learn cornering techniques
- Test vehicle handling
- Compare setup changes
- Practice racing
- Meet other RC enthusiasts
- Develop driving skills without relying solely on casual driving areas
Older community records also show that Zak’s Hobbies operated organized racing programs across different vehicle scales and classes.
Because racing classes and schedules can change, prospective racers should verify the current schedule directly with the store before traveling.
Zaks Hobbies RC Repair and Setup Service
One of the most useful services for beginners is the store’s listed setup and repair service.
RC vehicles can require more maintenance than a casual buyer might initially expect. Depending on the model, owners may eventually need to deal with:
- Steering adjustments
- Suspension setup
- Gear and drivetrain issues
- Motor or electronic problems
- Damaged body components
- Tire replacement
- General tuning
- Post-crash repairs
Having access to knowledgeable hobby-shop assistance can be especially helpful when you are unsure whether a problem is caused by a damaged component, incorrect setup, or normal adjustment.
Why Setup Matters in RC
Two otherwise similar RC vehicles can behave very differently depending on their setup.
Suspension settings, tires, gearing, ride height, steering adjustments, and electronics can all influence how a vehicle responds. Beginners do not necessarily need to understand every adjustment immediately, but learning the basics becomes increasingly important if the goal is competitive racing.
RC Brands Associated With Zaks Hobbies
The current Horizon Hobby listing identifies four brands sold at the location:
| Brand | General RC Focus |
| ARRMA | High-performance RC cars and trucks, particularly off-road models |
| Axial | Off-road, crawling, and adventure-oriented RC vehicles |
| Losi | RC racing and performance-focused vehicles |
| Spektrum | RC electronics, transmitters, receivers, batteries, and related systems |
The exact inventory available in-store can change, so the brand listing should not be interpreted as a guarantee that every model or part is currently on the shelf.
Who Is Zaks Hobbies Best For?
Zaks Hobbies can be relevant to several types of RC hobbyists.
Beginners
A local hobby shop can be a useful starting point for someone who has never owned an RC vehicle.
Instead of choosing a model based only on an online product description, a beginner can ask questions about:
- Vehicle type
- Electric versus other power systems
- Parts availability
- Maintenance requirements
- Appropriate driving surfaces
- Track compatibility
- Necessary accessories
The most important beginner decision is usually not simply choosing the fastest vehicle. It is choosing something that matches your intended use and willingness to maintain it.
Experienced RC Hobbyists
Experienced hobbyists may be more interested in:
- Replacement parts
- Setup assistance
- Repairs
- Track use
- Performance tuning
- Racing
- Community interaction
The presence of both on-road and off-road facilities makes the location particularly relevant to people who want to use their RC vehicles rather than simply purchase them.
RC Racers
Zak’s Hobbies has a documented history of organized RC racing. Historical schedules included multiple scales, vehicle classes, road racing, oval racing, and off-road events.
However, old race classes should not be assumed to represent the current program. Anyone planning a race visit should confirm current classes, rules, fees, and scheduling before arriving.
What Should a Beginner Buy for RC?
If you’re visiting Zak’s Hobbies because you want to start an RC hobby, begin with your intended use rather than the most powerful vehicle available.
For Casual Driving
Look for a vehicle that is:
- Easy to operate
- Ready to run or relatively simple to assemble
- Supported by readily available parts
- Appropriate for your driving surface
- Within your maintenance comfort level
A ready-to-run model can be a straightforward introduction because many of the major components are already assembled.
For Racing
If racing is your primary goal, ask about the classes currently supported at the track before purchasing a vehicle.
This is one of the most important pieces of advice for a new racer: choose the class first, then choose the vehicle.
Buying a model that cannot participate in the racing class you want can turn into an unnecessary expense.
For Off-Road Driving
An off-road vehicle makes more sense if you want to drive over dirt, rough terrain, jumps, or uneven surfaces.
The appropriate model depends on the type of off-road driving you expect to do. A vehicle designed primarily for high-speed bashing is not necessarily the same as one optimized for technical crawling or organized racing.
What Equipment Do You Need for an RC Hobby?
The exact equipment depends on the vehicle, but a beginner may encounter several basic components.
RC Vehicle
This is the car, truck, buggy, or other model you control.
Transmitter
The transmitter is the handheld controller used to send commands to the vehicle.
Battery and Charger
Electric RC vehicles generally require an appropriate battery and charger. Battery compatibility matters, so beginners should use equipment specified for their particular model.
Spare Parts
Crashes and normal wear can result in broken or worn components. Keeping common replacement parts available can reduce downtime.
Basic Tools
RC maintenance commonly involves small fasteners and mechanical adjustments. A basic set of hobby-appropriate tools becomes increasingly useful as you spend more time with the vehicle.
How Much Does RC Hobbying Cost?
There is no single price for getting into RC because costs vary substantially by vehicle type, brand, scale, electronics, battery system, and whether you intend to race.
Your overall budget may include:
- RC vehicle
- Transmitter
- Battery
- Charger
- Spare parts
- Tools
- Tires
- Repair costs
- Track or race fees, where applicable
The most economical approach is usually to establish a realistic starting budget before shopping rather than purchasing a high-end vehicle and discovering later that additional equipment is required.
For current pricing, inventory, and availability, checking with the store is more reliable than relying on old online listings.
What Makes a Local RC Hobby Shop Valuable?
Online shopping can make it easy to compare RC vehicles, but a physical hobby shop offers something different: hands-on access to the hobby community.
A local shop can potentially help you understand:
- Which vehicle fits your goals
- Which parts fit your model
- How a repair should be approached
- What equipment you actually need
- Where you can drive
- Which racing classes are available
- How to get more involved locally
For an RC hobby that involves regular repairs and tuning, that local knowledge can be particularly useful.
Zaks Hobbies Hours and Location
The current Horizon Hobby listing gives the following store information:
Address:
366 Wheat Road, Suite A
Vineland, NJ 08360
Phone:
(856) 697-1300
Currently listed hours:
| Day | Hours |
| Monday | 5:00 PM–9:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 3:00 PM–9:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 3:00 PM–9:00 PM |
| Thursday | 3:00 PM–9:00 PM |
| Friday | 3:00 PM–9:00 PM |
| Saturday | 12:00 PM–5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM–5:00 PM |
These hours come from the current Horizon Hobby partner listing and can change, so it is sensible to call before making a longer trip, particularly if you need a specific repair, part, or track session.
Zaks Hobbies and the RC Community
Zaks Hobbies has a notably long history in RC racing discussions. Community posts from the early 2000s document indoor carpet racing, road-course classes, off-road events, and different scale categories at the Vineland location.
Later community posts also document indoor racing seasons and outdoor racing activities, including 1/18-scale, 1/12-scale, 1/10-scale, and other classes.
That history helps explain why the store is recognizable among RC enthusiasts in South Jersey and surrounding areas. It also shows that the business has been associated with more than conventional hobby retail: racing and track-based participation have been an important part of its identity.
Tips Before Visiting Zaks Hobbies
If you’re making your first visit, a little preparation can make the trip more useful.
If You’re Buying Your First RC
Know whether you want:
- On-road or off-road driving
- Casual driving or racing
- Electric or another power system
- A ready-to-run model or a build project
You do not need to know everything beforehand. A clear description of how you intend to use the vehicle is often enough to start a useful conversation.
If You Need a Repair
Bring the vehicle, transmitter, and relevant components when practical. Explain what happened immediately before the problem appeared.
For example, “the car stopped after a crash” is more useful than simply saying “it doesn’t work.”
If You Want to Race
Ask about the current:
- Race schedule
- Vehicle classes
- Track rules
- Registration requirements
- Fees
- Battery or motor regulations
- Practice opportunities
Older race schedules available online are useful historical references, but they should not be treated as current information.
Is Zak’s Hobbies Worth Visiting?
For an RC enthusiast in or around South Jersey, Zaks Hobbies is particularly worth considering if you want more than a basic retail purchase.
Its current listing confirms an RC-focused store with on-road and off-road tracks, setup and repair service, and several established RC brands. Its extensive history of documented racing activity also gives it a longstanding connection to the RC community.
The strongest reason to visit is therefore not simply the ability to buy an RC vehicle. It is the combination of products, technical support, track facilities, and RC-focused community involvement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Zaks Hobbies
Where is Zak’s Hobbies located?
Zaks Hobbies is located at 366 Wheat Road, Suite A, Vineland, New Jersey 08360. The current Horizon Hobby listing provides the same location and lists the store’s phone number as (856) 697-1300.
What does Zaks Hobbies specialize in?
Zaks Hobbies specializes in the radio-control hobby, including RC vehicles and related equipment. Its current listing also identifies on-road and off-road tracks and setup and repair services.
Does Zaks Hobbies have an RC track?
Yes. The current listing identifies both an on-road track and an off-road track onsite.
Does Zaks Hobbies repair RC cars?
The store’s current Horizon Hobby listing specifically includes setup and repair service among its services.
What RC brands does Zaks Hobbies carry?
The current Horizon Hobby listing identifies ARRMA, Axial, Losi, and Spektrum among the brands sold at the location. Availability of individual models and parts can change.
Is Zak’s Hobbies suitable for beginners?
Yes. Beginners can use an RC hobby shop to get advice about choosing a vehicle, understanding required equipment, and learning about maintenance and track use. If racing is your goal, ask about current racing classes before purchasing a vehicle.
Does Zak’s Hobbies still have the same racing programs documented online years ago?
Not necessarily. Historical sources document many different racing classes and schedules at Zak’s Hobbies, but those records are from earlier years. Current race schedules and rules should be confirmed directly with the store.
What should I ask before buying an RC vehicle at Zaks Hobbies?
Ask which models match your intended driving surface, experience level, budget, maintenance expectations, and—if applicable—the current racing classes. Also ask what battery, charger, spare parts, and tools you will need so there are no unexpected essentials after the purchase.
Final Thoughts
Zaks Hobbies is an RC-focused hobby store in Vineland, New Jersey, with current listings for on-road and off-road tracks, setup and repair services, and major RC brands including ARRMA, Axial, Losi, and Spektrum.
Its long history of RC racing activity makes it especially relevant to enthusiasts interested in driving and competition rather than simply collecting models. If you’re a beginner, the best starting point is to explain exactly what you want to do casual driving, off-road running, on-road racing, or learning RC maintenance—and choose your equipment around that goal.
I’m Olivia Bennett, a passionate writer who loves exploring ideas, learning new concepts, and sharing knowledge in a straightforward way. I write for Cognivoora with the goal of making useful topics easier to understand without unnecessary complexity. My approach combines research, clarity, and a reader-first perspective.
Books:
- Think Clearly, Live Better
- The Curious Reader’s Guide