CRC Encore shock is just as smooth if not more so than my HB shock. My personal favorite shock for 1/12th scale. It is the only shock made for 1/12th that you don't have to take the end off of the shock to change the spring. Once you set your shock length where you want it...it never changes. The only thing I would like to see on the Encore is a Teflon guide and piston.