Don't get a Rustler whatever you do. No one competitively races a Rustler at any tracks I've raced at. It is either Losi, Associated and sometimes a Kyosho or two, but that's about it. Even the Evader is frowned upon at races. The only way I've supported Traxxas is with my 3 EMaxx trucks, and two of them are upgraded way beyond Traxxas quality. The Jato looks cool, but again, I've never seen one racing in the Nitro ST class. You'd be better off to get an RC10GT or XXX NT, as they are much better quality trucks.

Out of your chocies, the Jato is more of a race profile truck, not so much a basher. I don't know much about the Shadow, but 4WD's are hella fun when it comes to bashing. I used to have an HPI RS4 MT and that thing wouldn't quit. [>:] If you want 2WD and nitro, get the RC10GT plus or the XXX NT, just your preference of Losi or Associated.

Good luck with your search, but just remember to have fun with whatever truck you decide on!