The plastic in the Axial or Tamiya kit's is fine. Parts are readily available for the Axial's and they actually turn. Axial's work very well in stock form, RTR or kit versions. I have never seen a Komodo that I like or that I think works well.
Axles seem strong but who knows. Steering knuckles look weak. The design of the axles and steering knuckle allow of almost no turning. I'd be surprised if the wheel's turned 10* either way. The Axial RTR Defender is about $30 more in my local shop than the Komodo is and in my opinion gets you a better truck and more stuff, and more room for upgrades later.
I would go with the Axial or the Tamiya kit's personally.