GETTING STARTED

Frequently Asked Questions

  • WHAT IS A COMBAT ROBOT?
    Combat robots are machines designed to destroy each other in an attempt to be the best. Battlebots is one of the most well known examples of combat robotics in the US. They fight 250lb robots with weapons up to 60lbs spinning as fast as 250mph.

  • WHAT IS AN INSECT WEIGHT COMBAT ROBOT?
    Insect weight combat robots are small, more budget friendly bots that are more accessible to everyone. They are split up into 150g fairyweights, 1lb antweights, and 3lb beetleweight classes. One thing to note, is these are the US weight classes. In the UK and many other places 150g bots are called antweights. The smaller sizes allow for smaller arenas and cheaper parts, without taking away from any of the carnage.

  • SO HOW DO I START?
    One of the best ways to start is in the 1-pound 3D printed class. These bots use 3D printed parts to form the bodies and weapons, keeping the cost low. If something breaks a new one can be printed instead of machined. The electronics are also generally widely available as drone parts. Generally the radio will be the most expensive part of the robot. The good news is, one radio can be used for multiple bots, just not at the same time. Feel free to join our discord server so we can help you out!
  • WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE?
    Come check out an event, chat with us on Discord or check out our Combat Robotics Resource List!

Recommended Gear

Welcome to RABID RVA's guide to essential parts for building your combat bot! Whether you're starting with a 1lb antweight or scaling up to beetleweights, these Amazon affiliate links feature high-quality components like 3D printing filaments, drone motors, batteries, ESCs, and tools. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases, which helps support our non-profit events and community.

Duramic 3D PLA+ Filament - The a durable and cost effective filament for plastic antweights.

Overture Super PLA+ Filament - Another very durable filament for plastic antweights.

FLYSKY FS-i6X RC Transmitter with FS-iA6B Receiver - A great starter radio and receiver!

FS2A AFHDS2A RC Receiver - A very tiny receiver that works with the FS-i6 transmitter.

WEP 882D Soldering Station and Hot Air Gun - A nice soldering station and hot air gun for heat shrinking!

Dys 2822 Brushless Motor - The 2822 has powered many antweight weapons!

Readytosky 35A Brushless ESC - These ESCs are cheap and will handle any antweight weapon!

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, RABID earns from qualifying purchases.

Supporters

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Connect With Us!


Join our discord server to discuss the next event or check out our current bot builds. Fill out the form at the link below to get in contact!

Sign up for our mailing list or message us HERE!

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