If you’re the kind of person who lives for horsepower, chrome reflections, and the unmistakable rumble of a built engine, this issue is going to feel like home. We’ve got a lineup that blends classic grit, modern muscle, and the kind of custom culture that keeps the scene alive and evolving.
Let’s start with a true piece of rolling history—“SPIKE,” a 1946 Ford truck owned by Joe Stallsworth. This thing doesn’t just sit pretty; it tells a story every time it fires up. Captured through the lens of John Mumaw, the truck carries that raw, post-war attitude with just enough custom flair to make people stop mid-sentence when it rolls by. It’s the kind of build that reminds you why old iron still matters.
Sliding into something a little more street-slick but just as bold, we’ve got “Land Lord,” a 1967 Chevy C10 owned by Shane Hancock. Shot by Dan Davis, this truck hits that sweet spot between vintage cool and modern edge. Whether it’s parked or cruising, it owns the pavement—hence the name. C10 fans already know the deal, but even if you’re new to the game, this one makes a strong case for why these trucks never go out of style.
Then we jump ahead a few decades with “Papa Smurf,” a 2018 Ford Mustang GT owned by Brandon Sparks. Photographed by Chris Gosda, this build brings loud personality and performance together in one eye-catching package. It’s modern muscle done right—clean, aggressive, and impossible to ignore. Whether you’re into late-model builds or just appreciate a car that stands out in a crowd, this Mustang delivers.
Of course, it’s not just about the features—it’s about the culture, and nothing captures that better than being on the ground at real events. The Certified Summer Car Show in Atlanta, Georgia on July 26, 2025 brought together an impressive mix of rides and enthusiasts, all documented by Chris Gosda. From polished show cars to gritty street builds, the energy was high and the variety didn’t disappoint.
Out on the West Coast, the Moon Eyes Open House in Santa Fe Springs, Southern California on July 12, 2025 delivered that unmistakable SoCal vibe. With photos by Cheri Delgadillo, this event showcased everything from traditional hot rods to wild customs, all tied together by a deep respect for automotive heritage.
Closer to the heartland, Camp-N-Drag in Waveland, Indiana from July 18–20, 2025 proved once again that you don’t need a big city to throw down a killer event. Captured by Double D, this weekend blended camping and car culture into one unforgettable experience.
And because no issue is complete without a little extra attitude, we’ve got Gauge Girl Elizabeth, photographed by Dan Davis. She brings that perfect mix of style and confidence that fits right in with the machines we love.
From classic steel to modern performance, from coast-to-coast events to the personalities that fuel the culture, this lineup is all about celebrating what makes the automotive world so addictive. Stick around—there’s always more just around the bend.
