Tin Soldier Racecars just made its biggest move yet. The fast-rising Kentucky-based chassis builder has officially acquired Racecraft Inc., the legendary Minnesota fabrication shop known for its precision parts and championship-winning components. The deal, announced earlier this week from Tin Soldier’s Hebron, Kentucky, headquarters, brings together two respected names in the drag racing world – both built on hard work, craftsmanship, and deep racing roots.
Founded just over a decade ago by Jason Terrell and Brad Schnieders, Tin Soldier has become one of the sport’s most recognizable modern chassis and component brands. What started in a small Northern Kentucky garage has evolved into a full-service operation turning out record-setting turbo Mustangs, advanced suspension systems, and some of the most admired drag-and-drive builds in the country.
For Terrell, the company name – and spirit – comes straight from home. His father, Ron Terrell, a longtime NHRA Super Stock racer, was nicknamed “Tin Soldier” years ago, and his influence helped shape the brand’s mix of old-school grit and new-school innovation.
Over the years, Tin Soldier’s rise has been anything but ordinary. What began as a handful of guys with welders and a dream turned into a movement fueled by word of mouth and relentless drive.
“I can’t believe that in 10 years a team of hillbillies have made it this far,” Terrell laughed. “If you don’t think that God exists, look at our story. We are bad at plans but we are good at jumping when we are asked to jump. I can’t believe our wives put up with our shenanigans.”
Meanwhile, Racecraft Inc. has been a fixture in the drag racing landscape since 1997. From its Madison Lake, Minnesota, base, the company carved a reputation for quality and consistency – building chassis, suspension systems, and bolt-in solutions for everything from weekend warriors to Pro-level machines. Racecraft’s work has shown up everywhere, from small-tire shootouts to world-record radial passes, helping countless racers chase their next personal best.
As part of the acquisition, Racecraft’s operations will transition entirely to Tin Soldier’s Kentucky headquarters, consolidating production under one roof. Several of Racecraft’s key employees will assist in the move and integration process, helping maintain the precision and consistency that made the brand a favorite among racers.
“They built an incredible legacy and we cannot wait to continue that – to take it to the next level,” said Terrell.
Tin Soldier says the acquisition was a natural next step as the company continues to scale to meet the sport’s growing demands. With faster ETs, tighter safety standards, and a surge in drag-and-drive competition, the merger strengthens their ability to deliver the kind of performance parts racers rely on – from radial chassis kits to next-generation turbo components.
“This exciting step brings together two companies that share the same passion: building world-class race cars and delivering top-quality components to racers everywhere,” the announcement read.
More than a business move, the deal feels like another chapter in drag racing’s timeless story – where faith, hard work, and family keep the dream alive.
As Tin Soldier Racecars and Racecraft Inc. move forward together, one thing’s clear: they’re not just building cars. They’re building something bigger – proof that with vision, grit, and a little divine timing, the underdogs can rise to the top.
This story was originally published on October 15, 2025. 
