What they mean by hardcore on Pirate4x4.com is that if you ask newbie questions, expect to get blasted. They fully expect that you have done your homework, already know what gear ratios you have, engine size, which transfer case you have and if it has twin stick, etc.
They have a forum for newbie questions and if you are not into tube frame buggies, stay quiet...
If you go there, I would register and then just search and lurk for a while. Excellent information there, if you can read through the banter that does get explicit.
I have been on Pirate for years...