RobotCombatWiki - User contributions [en]

Test Boxes

2025-11-15T17:47:36Z

Chklnk: Add PBB box and safety note

Effective full-combat robots are too dangerous to be tested except in a properly constructed enclosure. A good enclosure is designed to protect people from injury and death, and property from damage and destruction. Common hazards are:

*Debris, which can fly great distances in moments
*Fire and flame from batteries, circuit failure, or miswiring
*Fragmentation of robots and test targets

==At Events==
Many builders only test their bots at competitive events, which allow access to a prepared combat arena at specified times, or by request. Large robots should only be tested in such circumstances. Some events also have one or more test boxes available. Strictly follow event rules for their use, including closing and locking the lid before each use, and opening only when safe.

==Outdoor Testing==
Historically some robots have been tested outdoors in the open air, a great distance from people and buildings alike. '''There is still huge danger from flying and falling debris, so this is not recommended.''' A shattered spinning-weapon blade is especially dangerous.

==Test Boxes==
In general, small robots (insectweight, 3 pound and under) can be checked in relatively small test boxes. Instructions for building some are linked below.

*'''[https://palmbeachbots.com/pages/build-your-own-combat-robot-test-box Palm Beach Bots]'''
*'''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdSkZc4kfAw Just 'Cuz Robotics video guide]'''
*'''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lw5YuJKg8vA Team Skorpios Builder Blog]''' with BattleBots stories
*'''[https://nearchaos.net/2024/03/building-a-compact-portable-test-box/ Near Chaos: Compact, Portable Test Box]'''
*'''[https://www.fingertechrobotics.com/safety.php FingerTech Safety Guide]''', test box is at the bottom

This list is not an endorsement of these designs. Follow arena construction guidelines at '''[https://sparc.tools/ SPARC.Tools]'''. Adequate thickness of the polycarbonate windows is crucial!

OnlineTools

2025-11-15T17:31:27Z

Chklnk: Add PBB calculators

A number of tools have been created for robot combat builders to be able to plan for and build effective bot weapons and drivetrains. Here are some community favorites:

==Design Suite==
Full combat robot design suite includes Drivetrains, Weapons, Center Distance, LiPo watt-hour equivalency at different voltage, even USA national tournament strategy. Built-in stats for common high-performance insectweight motors.

'''[https://ember.level5robotics.com/ ember Robot Calculator Suite]''' - Level 5 Robotics.

==Mechanical==
Handy for drivetrains.

'''[https://www.bbman.com/belt-length-calculator/ Belt Length Calculator]''' - B&B Manufacturing

'''[http://www.jgermita.me/crresources Belt Center Distance Calculator]''' - Jeremy Germita

'''[http://www.jgermita.me/crresources Chain Center Distance Calculator]''' - Jeremy Germita

'''[https://www.kjmagnetics.com/calculator.asp Magnet Pull Force Calculator]''' - Calculate pull force based on distance, size, and grade. By K&J Magnetics.

'''[https://palmbeachbots.com/pages/belt-pulley-calculator Toothed Belt Calculator]''' - Palm Beach Bots

==Motors==

'''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/motor_math.html Electric Motor Math]''' - Understanding the specs for PMDC (brushed) motors. By Team RoboForge, presented by Run Amok.

Also see '''[http://runamok.tech/AskAaron/constants.html Deriving Motor Constants]''' for surplus PMDC motors.

'''[http://www.jgermita.me/crresources Motor Speed and Pushing Power]''' - Choose brushed or brushless motors. By Jeremy Germita

'''[https://esc-configurator.com/ ESC Configurator]''' for programming (reflashing) ESCs online (Chrome/Chromium-type browser expected).

'''[https://github.com/frank26080115/EdgeTX-Scripts-and-FW-Collection/tree/main/Using-CRSF-and-ELRS-in-Combat-Robotics Using CRSF and ELRS in Combat Robotics]''' - get started with CRSF and update your ESCs from pulses to packets.

==Weapons==

Use these to find out not only how hard a spinning weapon will hit, but also whether it is compliant with maximum energy rules for the events you compete in.

'''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/spincalc.html Spinner Weapon Kinetic Energy Calculator]''' - SpinCalc by Run Amok. Read the help file! Mass, MOI, spin-up estimation, etc.

'''[http://www.jgermita.me/crresources Tip Speed Calculator]''' - Jeremy Germita

'''[https://bristolbotbuilders.com/tools/tipspeed/ Tip Speed and KE (Kinetic Energy) Calculator]''' - Bristol Bot Builders

'''[https://palmbeachbots.com/pages/weapon-speed-calculator Weapon Speed Calculator]''' - Palm Beach Bots

==Control==

'''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/mixfix4.html Mixer Fixer]''' for correcting problems with channel mixing on your transmitter. By Run Amok.

==for Event Organizers==

Here are places to post '''[[Events]]'''. Remember to coordinate with other '''[[Local Groups]]''' so that competitors don't have to choose between different events on the same day within a reasonable travel distance.

'''[https://ember.level5robotics.com/tournament Ember Tournament Calculator]''' by Level 5 - Estimates run time and fight count for a double-elimination bracket; shows [[Robot Combat League]] point schedule, including estimates for events already posted on '''[https://www.robotcombatevents.com RobotCombatEvents]''' website.

'''[https://challonge.com/ Challonge.com]''' - Well established web-based tool for competitive events and tournament brackets. Integrated ticketing and payment via Stripe. Numerous '''[https://challonge.com/features/tournaments features]''', free version heavily ad supported. RobotCombatEvents.com has Challonge integration to feed event results to USA national rankings.

'''[https://truefinals.com/ TrueFinals.com]''' - New site in beta for tournament brackets. Stats and dashboards, competitor list with next opponent listed, integrated check-in and call up, video overlays for match recording/streaming, all also web-based. Well-documented API and small robot combat community creating deep integration.

'''[https://www.rampagebots.co.uk/ Rampage]''' is a tournament bracket/management site for UK matches, featuring Bugglebots and similar match formats, streaming features and API support.

'''[https://bigtimer.net/ BigTimer.net]''' - Large-display, ad supported, touch-enabled timer.

GettingStarted

2025-10-25T07:15:01Z

Chklnk: /* Getting Started Guides */ New description for MM tutorial and move toward front

[[File:WAR_Arena_Seattle_Center.jpg|thumb|Robot Event at the Seattle Center]]

If you are ready to get started, use this guide. While the creative possibilities in robot combat are endless, we'll start with some simple options for everyone, even the absolute beginner.

=How to get started in combat robotics=

===Go to events===
Many builders get "hooked" by watching robots on TV or on YouTube. While you can learn from watching matches, it can be difficult to know how to get started from these sources. You might be able to find and connect with local robot builders using Discord or Facebook, but the first thing that every new builder should do is to go to '''[[Events]]''' and see how things are done in the real world. A typical small event is one day long, with check-in and preliminaries in the morning, and competition until every match has been completed. Some will even have restaurants or food trucks available, but in others you will need to prepare for your own needs.

Even if you don't bring a robot, you should ask the event organizer if it is OK to walk around the pits and talk to the builders. Watching them prepare for their matches and repair robot damage will help you figure out what you'll need for your first event. While builders are generally friendly and helpful, '''do remember to be courteous''', as some of them will be preparing for a battle with very limited time, and often will not be able to talk to you while they work.

===Learn the rules===
Each robot combat event is governed by '''[[Rules|rules]]''' that specify such things as bot size and weight, allowable weapons, and safe behavior for both you and your bot. Learn what you are allowed to bring, how the event is scored, and how matches are structured. Listen in during the Driver's Meeting before the first match for a summary of requirements for participants.

Before you compete, read the event rules carefully; even if an event adopts SPARC rules or another standard, local changes are not uncommon. Check with the event organizers if you have any doubts about whether your bot will be accepted.

===Borrow a robot===
If you aren't very familiar or comfortable with building things, and you want to experience robot combat without spending much money, ask about "loaner bots" at your local event. Some enthusiasts have a "stable" of several robots used for small gatherings, lectures and demonstrations. Some even rent their bots out for parties! You might be able to compete for just the cost of the entry fee. These bots will usually be small nondestructive types that are fairly durable.

After a little experience driving a bot, think about owning your own. If it sounds interesting, read on!

=Building your own robot=
[[File:Tornado Strong 1200.jpg|thumb|right|150 gram combat robot]]

If you have a great idea for a design, and the skills to make it happen, follow that dream! Most people, however, will want to start with a robot that has already been designed. There are two ways to do this. One is to buy a factory-made kit, and the other is to follow an existing design.

Either way, in the process of assembly, you'll learn everything that goes into building your own bot. As you become familiar with the pieces, you'll not only begin to understand how it works, you will also better understand the ways it will fail. When you walk away from a match with a broken bot, you either need to have a plan to fix it, or you will need to call on the help of the other teams.

===Pick a weight class===
Once you've been to an event and decided to build a robot, you need to '''[[RobotClasses|pick a weight class]]''' for your first build. Take into consideration which weight classes are supported in the event(s) you plan to attend, your budget, and your building skills. Most builders start with "insect-weight" bots (the smallest and lightest classes) because they are the cheapest to build and maintain. Generally things get more expensive as they get bigger; the larger the weight class, the more destructive your opponents' bots will be, and the higher the likelihood that your bot will be damaged and require repair. Also, the building / fabrication requirements are very different for a 1-pound robot vs. a 30-pound robot. Start with something that you think you'll be able to complete, and if you have fun then you might go ahead and build a second and third robot.

===Building from a kit===
If you've decided to go with a '''[[Kits|factory-made kit]]''', you'll assemble a robot using instructions. Many will include a simple radio for control; others require you to buy one. Read the '''[[Radios]]''' section for suggestions. A few simple hand '''[[Tools For Beginners|tools]]''' are all you will need to get started.

Ask your local event organizer if there are any robot-building classes available. You might be able to join a small group where everyone builds their own bot from a kit of parts.

You should buy replacement parts along with your kit. For example, many kits have exposed wheels, and tires and wheels frequently are damaged by aggressive opponents.

===Building following a design===
If you're feeling more adventuresome, you can construct a bot according to plans you can get online. In almost every case these plans are free, but it can be tricky to judge which ones are worthwhile. Your local builders will have recommendations for you. See the '''[[3D Printing|3D printer]]''' page for a long list of available designs. Access to a 3D printer is required to make some of the parts for nearly every available design.

A beginner's best bet is often to build in the 150 gram '''[[RobotClasses|weight class]]''', since these bots are small, inexpensive, and easy to repair when damaged. Local events almost always have a 150g competition.

As you compete, you might come up with changes to the design you're using, like better armor or improved weapons. Experiment and learn, and don't be afraid to try wild ideas or to use scrap materials -- just stay within the weight limit and the rules. If you can do 3D design on a computer, you can also modify the plastic components of your kit.

Side note about parts: Robot combat is an unusual hobby that is not well served by most hobby shops. Your local hobby or radio-control supply house probably specializes in trucks and racing, flying and sailing models, or multirotor aircraft. Even if they have a great selection of parts, they won't know what equipment is suitable or allowed by the rules, and they may be reluctant to sell to someone who intends to risk damage of their products. As a result, specialty '''[[Suppliers|robot combat suppliers]]''' have been created to meet the needs of people engaged in the sport.

=Designing your own robot=
If you want to go your own way, building robots of your own design is the pinnacle of competition and success. Whether you carefully engineer a plastic chassis for '''[[3D Printing|3D printing]]''', or rummage in the junkyard for bits and bobs, the goals are yours to set.

Building and competing with your robot is supposed to be fun. Know yourself and pick a design that you will enjoy, but be sure to do something within your capabilities. Building a pneumatic flipper with no prior experience isn't a good choice for your first bot. Many in the hobby recommend starting with a simple pusher or lifter design, because more complicated designs require some knowledge of engineering, mechanical design, and materials science.

===Picking components===
Some people spend a ton of time picking motors and batteries and all the things that go into your first robot. It pays to take some time and make informed choices, but even advanced builders iterate and discover new components to improve their bots. Don't let 'perfect be the enemy of good'. Pick things that work, then iterate and make improvements over time as you go. If you are new to fabricating things take a look at the '''[[NameThatPart]]''' page to learn about different materials and some of the basic things you'll need to create your robot.

===Build and test your robot===
Before you start your build you want to make sure you have the '''[[Tools_For_Beginners|right tools]]'''. Nothing is more frustrating than setting aside time to build your robot only to find that you are missing a tool needed to build it.

Safety is always important when building and testing your bot. If you have active weapons, begin with the weapons completely disconnected or removed. Do a "wheels-up" test of your drive system to make sure it is working as expected. Ensure that the failsafe is working correctly using just the driving motors first. If everything works, take the bot for a test drive before enabling the weapon, if you can do it safely.

Once the driving motors are tested, you can install and connect the weapon. '''Weapons tests should be performed using a reinforced test box.''' Some builders will set up a camera to observe and record the bot while they and others remain safely out of the way. Get into the habit of performing tests in safe environments, as this is frequently a requirement in competitions.

===Optimizing your robot===
Beginning builders may not be aware of all the ways that the transmitter, receiver, and motor controls can be customized. After you've had some "stick time" driving the bot you may find it isn't as easy to control as you expected. Here are a few tips:

*If you can't predict where the bot will steer, you may be having radio issues, but often it's poor traction; try a different driving surface.
*If it steers to one side, you might have one motor faster than another; you can set your radio or ESC to limit the speed on one motor or boost another.
*If your ESC offers braking, try it; you might find it easier to precisely position your bot before an attack.
*You might be able to gain an edge when using your weapon. Setting endpoints and/or rate curves for servo motion on a flipper, for example, could position it for faster response to your stick movements.

=Getting Started Guides=
*Robert Cowan's '''[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1tXSzwzEM2jNGjZ2KYn00ldeHvEru0y3_zlNkVw-F9iI/edit?usp=sharing Combat Robot Resource Guide]''' is packed with useful links and tips.
*Maker's Muse '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvNRtRuOALw introductory tutorial]''' does a great job covering the basics, and even shows some things beginners get wrong.
*Peter Garnache's '''[https://drive.google.com/file/d/12gA-8xjnxF9-k8PxmurhnEiuI-fv-Lz7/view Beetleweight Combat Robot Design Handbook]''' is aimed at builders of smaller bots and is a great resource for design tips, manufacturing techniques, and avoiding damage that is common in robot combat. Don't miss the classifications and naming conventions used in combat robotics.
*'''[https://www.wikihow.com/Build-an-Antweight-Combat-Robot Build an Antweight]''' is a great visual guide to the process.
*'''[https://combatrobotics.co.nz/build-guides/general/ New Zealand guide to getting started]''' connects "kiwis" with the local scene.
*'''[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1u2wszjPiJOVeC017CCnXBpdU2_T24qVbukyguQFecx4/edit# The Box is Locked]''' helps you prepare for your first competition.
*'''[https://www.reddit.com/r/battlebots/comments/3euojn/what_now_getting_started_in_robot_combat/ Reddit on getting started]''' has more great links.
*'''[https://www.sparkfun.com/news/2763 SparkFun]''' had a rundown article by Cowan with great photos.
*The most comprehensive is the '''[http://meggi.usuarios.rdc.puc-rio.br/docs/riobotz_combot_tutorial.pdf RioBots tutorial]''', a full sized book packed with engineering know-how and real life experience. Beginners with small bots don't need to read this to succeed, but at least skim it to learn the basics and gain inspiration.
*The '''[https://www.teamwitchdoctor.com/build-a-robot Witch Doctor Junior Video Series]''' is an easy to understand resource for new builders.
*'''[https://youtu.be/-fyxuHzDUaY Just 'Cuz Robotics]''' provides a guide on what to expect at your first event.
*'''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lw5YuJKg8vA How to build a test box]''' will keep you safe! A guide from team Scorpios.
*'''[https://build4the.win/ Build 4 The Win]''' is a free site to help you organize the parts list for a bot, including looking at other bot designs and a searchable parts database.

=Preparing yourself=
After the bot is built, it must be operated. Combat robots need drivers to succeed. Two keys to success in the bot arena are '''driving skills''' and '''strategy'''.

===Master driving skills===
First, you must become a master of your own bot. Find or make a safe place to test your bot without chance of injury to yourself, family, pets, and others, and get plenty of practice driving it as often as possible. Learn how long the battery will hold out before it must be charged. If possible, adjust your controls so that the bot moves and performs as your hands expect it to; for example, adjust the bot or the radio so that when the stick is pushed straight forward, the bot will go straight ahead, and not veer to one side. All of the bot's motions should be predictable and reliable. Then you can practice your moves, just as with any sport, even if all you have is a wood-block dummy to push around.

===Study and engage===
You will need to effectively engage your rivals in the battle arena, identifying their strengths and seeking out and exploiting weaknesses in their bot designs and in their own driving. You might be able to watch videos of your opponent bots in prior matches to learn about their behavior. However, only in real combat will you learn all the instincts needed to adapt to ever-changing situations. Robot combat is a true sport, and its techniques can be learned and studied not only by watching videos, but by going to events and fighting.

===Pit strategy===
While at each event, you will have your own spot in the "pits" for repairs and adjustments. Take the time to visit as many competitor's pit tables as possible during the competition, and see what they're up to. It's not uncommon for your opponent's bots to be refitted from one competition to the next, or even modified for individual matches, and you should be prepared with new tactics against potential new threats.
Imagine the advantage in knowing your next competitor has a stronger weapon than before, or that they have replaced their armor with fresh plates angled to deflect your bot... or maybe they have taken too much damage, and had to switch to their old, slightly cracked bot frame in order to remain in competition. There is no formal [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homologation_(motorsport) homologation] in combat robotics; anything that meets the weight limit and the rules is fair game, and it's best not to be surprised just at the moment your match starts.

===Strong spirit===
Finally, steel yourself for failure. Parts will fail, things will break, batteries run low, circuits overheat, gears jam, belts fall off, connectors come unplugged, and mighty opponents may cut your bot to ribbons. "The general rule of thumb in any robot competition regardless of weight class is not to put a bot in the arena you aren't comfortable having destroyed."[https://old.reddit.com/r/battlebots/comments/8ogjpe/choosing_a_controller_rather_costprohibitive/e046ct1/] If defeat comes, congratulate your opponent, return to the pits, rebuild, and return to the arena and triumph.

ESCs

2025-10-25T06:53:24Z

Chklnk: Link livery

'''Electronic Speed Controllers''', or '''ESCs''', are circuits that let you control '''[[Motors|motor]]''' speed and direction remotely, using a signal from the radio receiver. One circuit board may have one or more motor controllers, and some small ESCs are integrated with a receiver to minimize size and weight for small bots. They are called "Electronic" speed controllers to distinguish from an obsolete electro-mechanical type which were used in RC models long ago (1980s?).

[[File:Scorpion_Mini.jpg|thumb|Scorpion Mini Dual motor ESC by RobotPower]]

=How ESCs work=
An ESC plugs into the receiver. It changes the pulses that would have moved a servo, and makes them into a variable motor voltage instead. ESCs have a connection to draw power from the battery, and another to attach to the motor(s).

=Selecting an ESC=
[[File:BotBitzESC.png|thumb|Dual motor ESC by BotBitz]]
'''Note''': Beginners may be quickly overwhelmed at the selection of ESCs available. It is convenient to choose ESCs that are designed for use in combat robotics from the many '''[[Suppliers]]''' available. A wide range of other ESCs are available for model hobby purposes, but you must select carefully. When in doubt, ask other builders.

Considerations in selecting a suitable ESC include:
==Motor type==
There are two completely different types.
*'''Brushed ESCs''' only drive brushed DC motors.
*'''Brushless ESCs''' only drive brushless motors.
*'''Hybrid controllers''', like some from '''[https://home.castlecreations.com/ Castle Creations]''', can be set to either brushed or brushless mode.

==Safety==
An ESC must stop running the motor if it stops receiving a signal; otherwise, this could result in a runaway bot, or a bot that can't stop its weapon or prevent self-damage. If your bot doesn't "fail safe" with no signal from your transmitter, it will not qualify for competition.

==Battery voltage==
ESCs are rated for a maximum voltage. Exceeding this voltage may lead to immediate failure of the ESC.

==Current rating==
ESCs are given a current rating, for example "30A" for a 30 amp ESC. High-quality ESCs will have separate ratings for continuous current flow, and peak or maximum current flow. Cheap ESCs are often advertised by the maximum current rating, which they can output for only a few seconds. You can still use them to save money, but be conservative about their capabilities; a basic "30 amp" ESC might be fine for a motor requiring 5 amps.

===Continuous current===
An ESC must be able to provide the full speed motor current of the motor it controls for the full length of a match. If it can't, it will stop working or burn out from thermal overload.

===Peak current===
If a motor is jammed or brought to a stop ("stalled"), it will demand much more current than normal. For some applications this won't happen much, but in combat robots, it happens all the time! If you get into a pushing match, get stuck, or your motor-spun weapon strikes your opponent and comes to a dead stop, peak current will come into play.

Your motor will have a published "stall current" or "locked rotor amperage" indicating the demand that will be placed on your ESC in this situation. Select an ESC that will not be damaged by that current level, at least not immediately. Try to be aware of your motors while driving, and shut off the power if a motor is jammed to preserve the ESC and wiring. Again, be wary of current ratings given for inexpensive hobby ESCs.

Consider using belt slip, a shaft clutch, or other methods to physically avoid stalling the motor. Combat damage may of course increase loading or cause a jam even if the bot was designed to avoid it.

==Size / Weight==
Physical size and weight is always a consideration when choosing components for combat robots, especially in insect-class robots where every gram counts. If you allow extra mass and volume for your ESC, you can choose one with a larger heat sink which will be less likely to overheat and therefore more tolerant of overload.

==Sensor capabilities==
Advanced builders may want to use brushless '''[[motors]]''' with shaft sensors and matching ESCs to better control speed, acceleration, or torque, making the bot easier to operate with precision. These units are more costly and require programming or tuning to achieve the desired performance.

==Additional features==
*'''[[Battery_eliminator_circuit_(BEC)|Battery Elimination Circuit (BEC)]]''' - this takes the voltage from the battery down to a lower level that is more typically used in receivers and servos which eliminates the need for a second receiver battery. BECs on speed controllers typically don't provide a lot of current, so if you are using a 5 volt servo in your bot you should consider a stand alone BEC.
*'''[[Radios/Mixing|Channel Mixing]]''' - Lets you operate multiple drive motors with just one control stick, even with the simplest radio transmitters. Applicable only to dual-channel ESCs that can control two motors.
*Reversible - If you are using the ESC to operate any motor that has to spin both ways (drive wheels, for example), the ESC must be "reversible" — that is, capable of bidirectional operation.
*Battery Monitoring and Protection - Shuts off the motor to save the battery from damage due to excessive discharge. Consider if you want your ESC to cut off power to your motor and leave you vulnerable late in a match -- it may be worth risking battery damage to keep fighting!
*Thermal Monitoring and Protection - Shuts off the motor to keep the ESC from being damaged by overheating.
*Tuning Settings - May help you better control the bot or make the most out of your motors. Particularly useful for brushless ESCs.
*The ability to reflash (reprogram) the ESC; see below.

=Firmware and Reflashing ESCs=
We've reached a time in history (and in hobbies) where it seems like every small device is run most cheaply by a tiny computer chip, including ESCs. They operate according to built-in programming, or firmware. Reflashing the firmware changes the program in the ESC's computer, and therefore how the motor is driven and powered.

This section will be a short introduction only, as the world of ESCs is ever-changing and far larger than just robots. If you're a beginner, buy ESCs from '''[[Suppliers]]''' that specialize in robot combat parts and use their community, documentation, and tech support to help make the most of this technology.

==Firmware==
'''[https://github.com/bitdump/BLHeli BLHeli]''' is a free and popular replacement firmware package. '''BLHeli_S''' is a separately developed alternative (fork).

'''[https://am32.ca/ AM32] ([https://github.com/am32-firmware Firmware])''' is an increasingly common firmware option. '''[https://oscarliang.com/am32-esc-firmware-an-open-source-alternative-to-blheli32/ This article]''' gives a brief introduction to its rise in popularity.

'''Warning:''' Note that as of 2024, '''BLHeli32''' is no longer being supported, and ESCs with BLHeli32 can't be flashed with new BLHeli32 settings. If you own, buy or inherit an ESC with BLHeli32, it will continue to work with the settings previously installed. It can be repurposed for AM32, but it will require some hacking to overwrite the firmware loader in the ESC. Once that is done, it can accept AM32 or other compatible options.

==Reflashing Tools==
'''BLHeliSuite''' is a computer program made to reprogram brushless ESCs and adjust exactly how the motor is controlled. One common reason to do this is to take brushless ESCs made for other purposes, and make them fit for robot combat.

A popular online alternative is '''[https://esc-configurator.com/ ESC Configurator]'''. A Chromium-based browser like Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge is required.

==Repurposing ESCs==
It may be possible to reflash the firmware on an ESC meant for other uses to make it reversible. Fortunately, nearly all ESCs now fall into common design categories, using well-known chips and circuits which all work pretty much the same electrically. Here are some examples of ESCs that could be repurposed for robot combat.

*ESCs for '''car and truck''' applications have reversing ability, unless they have the very simplest of radio controls.
*ESCs made for '''quadcopters and drones''' are normally brushless and originally programmed to spin propellers for lift only.
*ESCs designed for '''airplane''' flight are also intended to spin a propeller one way only. Note that to save weight, airplane ESCs may also have smaller, lighter heat sinks intended for air cooled operation; these should be avoided or modified.
*ESCs for '''boat''' duty may not be able to reverse, and some are designed to be water cooled and have no heat sink at all.

ESCs

2025-10-25T06:48:07Z

Chklnk: /* Selecting an ESC */ Link to Suppliers

'''Electronic Speed Controllers''', or '''ESCs''', are circuits that let you control [[Motors|motor]] speed and direction remotely, using a signal from the radio receiver. One circuit board may have one or more motor controllers, and some small ESCs are integrated with a receiver to minimize size and weight for small bots. They are called "Electronic" speed controllers to distinguish from an obsolete electro-mechanical type which were used in RC models long ago (1980s?).

[[File:Scorpion_Mini.jpg|thumb|Scorpion Mini Dual motor ESC by RobotPower]]

=How ESCs work=
An ESC plugs into the receiver. It changes the pulses that would have moved a servo, and makes them into a variable motor voltage instead. ESCs have a connection to draw power from the battery, and another to attach to the motor(s).

=Selecting an ESC=
[[File:BotBitzESC.png|thumb|Dual motor ESC by BotBitz]]
'''Note''': Beginners may be quickly overwhelmed at the selection of ESCs available. It is convenient to choose ESCs that are designed for use in combat robotics from the many [[Suppliers]] available. A wide range of other ESCs are available for model hobby purposes, but you must select carefully. When in doubt, ask other builders.

Considerations in selecting a suitable ESC include:
==Motor type==
There are two completely different types.
*'''Brushed ESCs''' only drive brushed DC motors.
*'''Brushless ESCs''' only drive brushless motors.
*'''Hybrid controllers''', like some from [https://home.castlecreations.com/ Castle Creations], can be set to either brushed or brushless mode.

==Safety==
An ESC must stop running the motor if it stops receiving a signal; otherwise, this could result in a runaway bot, or a bot that can't stop its weapon or prevent self-damage. If your bot doesn't "fail safe" with no signal from your transmitter, it will not qualify for competition.

==Battery voltage==
ESCs are rated for a maximum voltage. Exceeding this voltage may lead to immediate failure of the ESC.

==Current rating==
ESCs are given a current rating, for example "30A" for a 30 amp ESC. High-quality ESCs will have separate ratings for continuous current flow, and peak or maximum current flow. Cheap ESCs are often advertised by the maximum current rating, which they can output for only a few seconds. You can still use them to save money, but be conservative about their capabilities; a basic "30 amp" ESC might be fine for a motor requiring 5 amps.

===Continuous current===
An ESC must be able to provide the full speed motor current of the motor it controls for the full length of a match. If it can't, it will stop working or burn out from thermal overload.

===Peak current===
If a motor is jammed or brought to a stop ("stalled"), it will demand much more current than normal. For some applications this won't happen much, but in combat robots, it happens all the time! If you get into a pushing match, get stuck, or your motor-spun weapon strikes your opponent and comes to a dead stop, peak current will come into play.

Your motor will have a published "stall current" or "locked rotor amperage" indicating the demand that will be placed on your ESC in this situation. Select an ESC that will not be damaged by that current level, at least not immediately. Try to be aware of your motors while driving, and shut off the power if a motor is jammed to preserve the ESC and wiring. Again, be wary of current ratings given for inexpensive hobby ESCs.

Consider using belt slip, a shaft clutch, or other methods to physically avoid stalling the motor. Combat damage may of course increase loading or cause a jam even if the bot was designed to avoid it.

==Size / Weight==
Physical size and weight is always a consideration when choosing components for combat robots, especially in insect-class robots where every gram counts. If you allow extra mass and volume for your ESC, you can choose one with a larger heat sink which will be less likely to overheat and therefore more tolerant of overload.

==Sensor capabilities==
Advanced builders may want to use brushless [[motors]] with shaft sensors and matching ESCs to better control speed, acceleration, or torque, making the bot easier to operate with precision. These units are more costly and require programming or tuning to achieve the desired performance.

==Additional features==
*[[Battery_eliminator_circuit_(BEC)|Battery Elimination Circuit (BEC)]] - this takes the voltage from the battery down to a lower level that is more typically used in receivers and servos which eliminates the need for a second receiver battery. BECs on speed controllers typically don't provide a lot of current, so if you are using a 5 volt servo in your bot you should consider a stand alone BEC.
*[[Radios/Mixing|Channel Mixing]] - Lets you operate multiple drive motors with just one control stick, even with the simplest radio transmitters. Applicable only to dual-channel ESCs that can control two motors.
*Reversible - If you are using the ESC to operate any motor that has to spin both ways (drive wheels, for example), the ESC must be "reversible" — that is, capable of bidirectional operation.
*Battery Monitoring and Protection - Shuts off the motor to save the battery from damage due to excessive discharge. Consider if you want your ESC to cut off power to your motor and leave you vulnerable late in a match -- it may be worth risking battery damage to keep fighting!
*Thermal Monitoring and Protection - Shuts off the motor to keep the ESC from being damaged by overheating.
*Tuning Settings - May help you better control the bot or make the most out of your motors. Particularly useful for brushless ESCs.
*The ability to reflash (reprogram) the ESC; see below.

=Firmware and Reflashing ESCs=
We've reached a time in history (and in hobbies) where it seems like every small device is run most cheaply by a tiny computer chip, including ESCs. They operate according to built-in programming, or firmware. Reflashing the firmware changes the program in the ESC's computer, and therefore how the motor is driven and powered.

This section will be a short introduction only, as the world of ESCs is ever-changing and far larger than just robots. If you're a beginner, buy ESCs from a '''[[Suppliers|supplier]]''' that specializes in robot combat parts and use their community, documentation, and tech support to help make the most of this technology.

==Firmware==
'''BLHeli[https://github.com/bitdump/BLHeli]''' is a free and popular replacement firmware package. '''BLHeli_S''' is a separately developed alternative (fork).

'''AM32[https://am32.ca/][https://github.com/am32-firmware]''' is an increasingly common firmware option. '''[https://oscarliang.com/am32-esc-firmware-an-open-source-alternative-to-blheli32/ This article]''' gives a brief introduction to its rise in popularity.

'''Warning:''' Note that as of 2024, '''BLHeli32''' is no longer being supported, and ESCs with BLHeli32 can't be flashed with new BLHeli32 settings. If you own, buy or inherit an ESC with BLHeli32, it will continue to work with the settings previously installed. It can be repurposed for AM32, but it will require some hacking to overwrite the firmware loader in the ESC. Once that is done, it can accept AM32 or other compatible options.

==Reflashing Tools==
'''BLHeliSuite''' is a computer program made to reprogram brushless ESCs and adjust exactly how the motor is controlled. One common reason to do this is to take brushless ESCs made for other purposes, and make them fit for robot combat.

A popular online alternative is '''[https://esc-configurator.com/ ESC Configurator]'''. A Chromium-based browser like Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge is required.

==Repurposing ESCs==
It may be possible to reflash the firmware on an ESC meant for other uses to make it reversible. Fortunately, nearly all ESCs now fall into common design categories, using well-known chips and circuits which all work pretty much the same electrically. Here are some examples of ESCs that could be repurposed for robot combat.

*ESCs for '''car and truck''' applications have reversing ability, unless they have the very simplest of radio controls.
*ESCs made for '''quadcopters and drones''' are normally brushless and originally programmed to spin propellers for lift only.
*ESCs designed for '''airplane''' flight are also intended to spin a propeller one way only. Note that to save weight, airplane ESCs may also have smaller, lighter heat sinks intended for air cooled operation; these should be avoided or modified.
*ESCs for '''boat''' duty may not be able to reverse, and some are designed to be water cooled and have no heat sink at all.

Test Boxes

2025-10-25T06:35:37Z

Chklnk: /* Test Boxes */ Fix sloppy links

Effective full-combat robots are too dangerous to be tested except in a properly constructed enclosure. A good enclosure is designed to protect people from injury and death, and property from damage and destruction. Common hazards are:

*Debris, which can fly great distances in moments
*Fire and flame from batteries, circuit failure, or miswiring
*Fragmentation of robots and test targets

==At Events==
Many builders only test their bots at competitive events. Generally events will allow access to a prepared combat arena at specified times, or by request. Large robots should only be tested in such circumstances. Some events also have one or more test boxes available. Strictly follow event rules for their use, including closing and locking the lid before each use, and opening only when safe.

==Outdoor Testing==
Historically some robots have been tested outdoors in the open air, a great distance from people and buildings alike. '''This is not recommended due to the likelihood of flying and even falling debris in case of a failure or loss of control.''' Spinning weapons and robots are especially dangerous, but even hitting a crack in concrete may trigger damage or cause parts to go flying.

==Test Boxes==
In general, small robots (insectweight, 3 pound and under) can be checked in relatively small test boxes. Instructions for building some are linked below.

*'''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdSkZc4kfAw Just 'Cuz Robotics video guide]'''
*'''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lw5YuJKg8vA Team Skorpios Builder Blog]''' with BattleBots stories
*'''[https://nearchaos.net/2024/03/building-a-compact-portable-test-box/ Near Chaos: Compact, Portable Test Box]'''
*'''[https://www.fingertechrobotics.com/safety.php FingerTech Safety Guide]''', test box is at the bottom

RobotClasses

2025-10-25T06:25:07Z

Chklnk: /* Non-Destructive Class */ full-combat

To keep matches fair, robots compete against others that are in a similar "class." The most common distinction is the weight class. Builders must be aware of which classes are allowed in the '''[[Events|events]]''' they participate in. Some robot classes are very popular while others are very rare; before you build a 6lb Mantisweight bot be sure that your chosen event runs that weight class.

[[File:Robot_Weight_Classes.jpg|thumb|1 pound Antweight to 60 pound Lightweight]]
=Weight Classes=

Weight class restricts the maximum fighting weight allowed for a robot.

'''Caution:''' Terms such as "Antweight" and "Beetleweight" differ across event regions as shown below.
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Robot Weight Classes
|-
! Class !! [https://sparc.tools/ SPARC] (USA) !! [https://www.fightingrobots.co.uk/ FRA] (UK) !! Special
|-
| Fleaweight || 75g || -- || --
|-
| Fairyweight || 150g || -- || --
|-
| Antweight || 1lb || 150g (0.33 lb) || --
|-
| Beetleweight || 3lb || 1.5kg (3.3 lb) || --
|-
| Mantisweight || 6lb || -- || --
|-
| Hobbyweight || 12lb || -- || Also [https://www.nhrl.io/ NHRL]
|-
| Dogeweight || 15lb || -- || [https://gonrl.org/ National Robotics League]
|-
| Featherweight || 30lb || 13.6kg (30lb) || --
|-
| Lightweight || 60lb || 30kg (66.1 lb) || --
|-
| Middleweight || 120lb || 55kg (121lb) || --
|-
| Heavyweight || 220lb || 110kg (242.5 lb) || --
|-
| TV-Heavyweight || 250lb || -- || [https://battlebots.com/ BattleBots®]
|}

Often weight bonuses will be offered for specific design features. For example, SPARC rules allow for bots to be up to 25% heavier for bots which shuffle instead of roll, or double weight for bots which fully qualify as Walker (able to walk without rolling or cam-operated mechanics). Likewise, BattleBots heavyweights can currently be up to 500.0 pounds if they can walk using articulated legs, and meet a number of other design criteria. Sometimes autonomous features may qualify for weight bonus.

Weight classes may include size restrictions; for example, 150g Antweight (UK) is generally required to fit within a 100x100x100mm cube. Read the event '''[[Rules|rules]]''' for details.

=Weapon Restricted Classes=
These robot classes align with an existing weight class, but have further restrictions on what [[Weapons|weapons]] can be used as well as other possible restrictions on things like using ground-scraping wedges. These are often chosen for events where they don't have an arena that can safely contain a full-combat robot; for example, spinning weapons may be forbidden, or limited in kinetic energy.

Before entering this type of competition, please read your event's rules to understand the restrictions.

==Non-Destructive Class==
Robots in non-destructive classes are not allowed to use saws, piercing weapons, fire, etc. to damage other bots. Flipping, throwing, and impact damage are permitted. There is normally a pit available so that robots without active weapons (wedges) can knock their opponents out of the arena. This is ideal for builders who don't want their creations so easily destroyed.

Other classes may be labeled "full combat" or "destructive" for clarity.

==Sportsman Class==
Robots qualifying for '''[[Sportsman Classes|Sportsman class]]''' according to SPARC rules must have an active weapon. Wedges may be restricted in number or type. Spinning weapons are limited in tip speed except when the tooth pitch is fine enough to qualify them as saws or saw-like weapons; drills are also permitted. These rules, as well as any additional restrictions that may apply, serve to limit weapon energy and force, and therefore limit damage to the arena and injury to participants and the audience. Event rules may vary according to the arena itself, and must be studied by all competitors in this class.

=Construction Restricted Classes=
These classes place restrictions on construction materials and methods.

==Plastic Ant==
In an effort to make robot building more accessible the '''[[Plastic_Antweights|plastic antweight]]''' class was started by '''[https://westernalliedrobotics.com Western Allied Robotics]'''. These robots are primarily 3d printed but can be fabricated out of approved plastics. The robot class became popular and the rules were adopted by '''[https://sparc.tools/ SPARC]'''.

==Termiteweight==
There are kits to construct combat robots from laser-cut wood pieces. They have all the parts needed to construct the robot and the transmitter, but no spares in case of damage. This type of bot is humorously known as "termite weight," and while they could in theory be entered into organized competition in the 1lb class, they have many serious disadvantages compared to normal 1lb opponents, such as plastic motor gears, lower battery capacity, and slower battery charging (or non-rechargeable batteries). Termite kits are fun, but are unlikely to succeed against more robust bots.

==Lego==
You can also build combat robots with Lego® bricks, motors, and remote controls. (Select non-Lego components such as BuWizz parts may be permitted.) Brick fan and builder community events such as BrickFair showcase Lego combat bots with most of the common combat robot weapons, each designed with structures for optimal defense against hard impacts.

These events have their own rules (for example, the BattleBricks rules, or the CRBL or '''[https://discord.com/invite/yyZHyqXS8M Combat Robotics Brick League]''' rules). Since weight classes, weight bonuses, parts selection, etc. are so different, and because they are unlikely to survive an encounter with a regular combat robot of a similar weight, these won't be covered in this wiki.

=Technology Restricted Classes=

==Autonomous==
This very unusual restriction requires builders to compete with robots that can find their opponents, drive themselves where needed, and make their own decisions about how to attack. Remote control of the robot is not allowed while the match is in progress. This can be done with simple sensors that cause the robot to travel all over the area and attack whatever they bump into. It is more effective using open-source machine vision, combined with either basic algorithms, machine learning, or even AI. Robotic mapping can be used to either use or avoid the arena boundaries to best effect.

=Historic Weight Classes=
120 lb was the competition class for high school and collegiate educational program '''BattleBots IQ'''. Later the program added a 15 lb Mini Class bot competition; 120 lb became Large Class.

Heavyweight bots have historically varied from 100-110kg, and there was once a 340 pound Super Heavyweight Battlebots class.

'''[https://robotwars.fandom.com/wiki/Weight_Classes This article]''' covers much of the history of weight classes in robot combat.

'''[https://www.teamdelta.com/roboglad/index.html Learn about the original 1999 Lego Robogladiators]''' from Dan at Team Delta.

Rules

2025-10-25T06:19:09Z

Chklnk: /* Outcome variant */ Better tie

=Robot Combat Rules=
Robot combat has several organizations that develop rules of play. The rules cover both robot construction and match procedures. However, in the USA there is no national league or governing body defining local rules. The sport is still young, and each event can choose its own rules, experiment, and innovate.

Good rules ensure fair fights, impartial judging decisions, and most of all, uniform standards of safety.

==Standardized rules==
Here are some of the organizations which have published rules and guidelines for robot combat events. You can freely download and read any of these rules.

*'''[https://sparc.tools/ Standard Procedures for the Advancement of Robot Combat]''', publisher of numerous resources for arena construction, competitors, judges, and more. SPARC has the most commonly used reference guides for robot construction and match Procedures. Event organizers discuss SPARC rules changes regularly.
*'''[http://www.nerc.us/ Northeast Robotics Club]''', a prominent competitive organization - [http://www.nerc.us/rules.html NERC Rules]
*'''[https://midwestrobotcombat.com/ Midwest Robot Combat Association]''', an expanding network of USA Midwestern events - [https://midwestrobotcombat.com/rules/ MRCA Rules]
*'''[https://www.fightingrobots.co.uk/ Fighting Robot Association]''' is centered in the UK - most events in Europe use their [https://www.fightingrobots.co.uk/content/23-rules-and-safety_1 FRA Rules]
*'''[https://www.nhrl.io/ National Havoc Robot League]''' have their own [https://www.nhrl.io/rules NHRL Rules]
*'''[https://battlebots.com/ BattleBots]''' is a TV show with 250 pound fighting robots - [https://battlebots.com/rules/ BattleBots Rules] are reviewed yearly

(National Robotics League is not on this list because only students on authorized teams may participate.)

==Local rules==
For many bot builders, travel to multiple locations to compete isn't practical. Multi-city leagues are unusual, and unlike football, the arena of play is not standardized. So when building your robot, decide which '''[[events]]''' you plan to compete in, and check for changes to the rules from one event to another. Most events are '''[[Local Groups|locally run]]''', and their rules adapt to the local requirements and situations:
* '''Arenas''' - Some arenas have metal floors, some wood; some will have pits or fences, while others do not; some arenas have thick, heavy polycarbonate windows while others can safely contain only bots with lower total weapon energy.
* '''Venues''' vary as well; in many event spaces, open flame isn't allowed, preventing the use of fire weapons. The use of power tools may be restricted to a safe area or even banished to the outdoors.
* When '''Volunteers''' are scarce or unavailable, the event may be streamlined in various ways, such as simplified judging (see below).
* '''Match time''' is most typically 3 minutes; however, if there are many competitors or other event time restrictions, two-minute matches are common.

=Judging Systems=
There are several different methods to judge a robot combat match.

Generally, if a robot is disabled, thrown out of bounds, or unable to travel normally on the arena floor, that the robot has lost the match.

If neither bot is disabled or disqualified, judges must render a decision. This is usually done with a point system weighted to bring out the best in bot designers and drivers, but designed never to result in a tie. For example, judges under newer SPARC rules give points for Damage (4 points) and Engagement (5 points), with each shared between two opponents.

Suppose both robots appear to have suffered equal damage; each would receive 2 points using the SPARC rules. The judges must then weigh which driver better controlled the flow of the match to break the tie.

==Edge cases==
Event organizers may make exceptions for specific issues caused by the arena itself. For example, if bots gets jammed against the walls due to a design flaw or normal arena wear and tear, judges may direct opponents to stop the match and free a bot that gets stuck instead of counting that bot out of play. The bot's driver is expected to avoid that situation in the future.

A "one free unstick" rule may also apply to bots that have become entangled or locked together.

==Damage, Control, and Aggression variant==
Older SPARC rules score control of the match situation separately from aggressive behavior toward the other bot, with Aggression, the willingness to pursue and engage the other bot, being the tie-breaking factor.

==Judge's Call variant==
Many events have done away with the detailed scoring system and simply have each judge indicate which bot they felt won the overall match. While this may lead to more consistent results, some builders get frustrated without scores to indicate why they won or lost the match. Different events also have different allowances for judges to talk with each other when making decisions. Some events want each judge to come to their own conclusions independently, while others think it better to have judges compare notes and discuss the results.

==Outcome variant==
Matches can also be judged by a simplified system based solely by the state of the robots at the end. For example:

*2 points awarded to the survivor when the other bot is knocked out, disabled, or falls into a pit ('''Win''')
*2 points awarded if the opponent is disqualified or forfeits the match before it starts ('''Bye''')
*1 point awarded to each bot remaining in play after time expires and the match is over ('''Tie''')
*0 points for a bot that is knocked out, disabled, or falls into a pit ('''Loss''')
*0 points awarded to a bot that is not ready for combat or is disqualified ('''Forfeit''')

This system is fine for informal matches and usually doesn't require impartial judgment. However, it's important that the term "disabled" is clearly defined and understood by all participants.

Since all types of bots must be able to disable their opponent, it's best if this variant is played in an arena with pits or other hazards that will potentially allow wedge bots and partially damaged bots a chance to win.

Rules

2025-10-25T06:16:10Z

Chklnk: /* Local rules */ Simplify/edit

=Robot Combat Rules=
Robot combat has several organizations that develop rules of play. The rules cover both robot construction and match procedures. However, in the USA there is no national league or governing body defining local rules. The sport is still young, and each event can choose its own rules, experiment, and innovate.

Good rules ensure fair fights, impartial judging decisions, and most of all, uniform standards of safety.

==Standardized rules==
Here are some of the organizations which have published rules and guidelines for robot combat events. You can freely download and read any of these rules.

*'''[https://sparc.tools/ Standard Procedures for the Advancement of Robot Combat]''', publisher of numerous resources for arena construction, competitors, judges, and more. SPARC has the most commonly used reference guides for robot construction and match Procedures. Event organizers discuss SPARC rules changes regularly.
*'''[http://www.nerc.us/ Northeast Robotics Club]''', a prominent competitive organization - [http://www.nerc.us/rules.html NERC Rules]
*'''[https://midwestrobotcombat.com/ Midwest Robot Combat Association]''', an expanding network of USA Midwestern events - [https://midwestrobotcombat.com/rules/ MRCA Rules]
*'''[https://www.fightingrobots.co.uk/ Fighting Robot Association]''' is centered in the UK - most events in Europe use their [https://www.fightingrobots.co.uk/content/23-rules-and-safety_1 FRA Rules]
*'''[https://www.nhrl.io/ National Havoc Robot League]''' have their own [https://www.nhrl.io/rules NHRL Rules]
*'''[https://battlebots.com/ BattleBots]''' is a TV show with 250 pound fighting robots - [https://battlebots.com/rules/ BattleBots Rules] are reviewed yearly

(National Robotics League is not on this list because only students on authorized teams may participate.)

==Local rules==
For many bot builders, travel to multiple locations to compete isn't practical. Multi-city leagues are unusual, and unlike football, the arena of play is not standardized. So when building your robot, decide which '''[[events]]''' you plan to compete in, and check for changes to the rules from one event to another. Most events are '''[[Local Groups|locally run]]''', and their rules adapt to the local requirements and situations:
* '''Arenas''' - Some arenas have metal floors, some wood; some will have pits or fences, while others do not; some arenas have thick, heavy polycarbonate windows while others can safely contain only bots with lower total weapon energy.
* '''Venues''' vary as well; in many event spaces, open flame isn't allowed, preventing the use of fire weapons. The use of power tools may be restricted to a safe area or even banished to the outdoors.
* When '''Volunteers''' are scarce or unavailable, the event may be streamlined in various ways, such as simplified judging (see below).
* '''Match time''' is most typically 3 minutes; however, if there are many competitors or other event time restrictions, two-minute matches are common.

=Judging Systems=
There are several different methods to judge a robot combat match.

Generally, if a robot is disabled, thrown out of bounds, or unable to travel normally on the arena floor, that the robot has lost the match.

If neither bot is disabled or disqualified, judges must render a decision. This is usually done with a point system weighted to bring out the best in bot designers and drivers, but designed never to result in a tie. For example, judges under newer SPARC rules give points for Damage (4 points) and Engagement (5 points), with each shared between two opponents.

Suppose both robots appear to have suffered equal damage; each would receive 2 points using the SPARC rules. The judges must then weigh which driver better controlled the flow of the match to break the tie.

==Edge cases==
Event organizers may make exceptions for specific issues caused by the arena itself. For example, if bots gets jammed against the walls due to a design flaw or normal arena wear and tear, judges may direct opponents to stop the match and free a bot that gets stuck instead of counting that bot out of play. The bot's driver is expected to avoid that situation in the future.

A "one free unstick" rule may also apply to bots that have become entangled or locked together.

==Damage, Control, and Aggression variant==
Older SPARC rules score control of the match situation separately from aggressive behavior toward the other bot, with Aggression, the willingness to pursue and engage the other bot, being the tie-breaking factor.

==Judge's Call variant==
Many events have done away with the detailed scoring system and simply have each judge indicate which bot they felt won the overall match. While this may lead to more consistent results, some builders get frustrated without scores to indicate why they won or lost the match. Different events also have different allowances for judges to talk with each other when making decisions. Some events want each judge to come to their own conclusions independently, while others think it better to have judges compare notes and discuss the results.

==Outcome variant==
Matches can also be judged by a simplified system based solely by the state of the robots at the end. For example:

*2 points awarded to the survivor when the other bot is knocked out, disabled, or falls into a pit ('''Win''')
*2 points awarded if the opponent is disqualified or forfeits the match before it starts ('''Bye''')
*1 point awarded to each bot remaining after time expires and the match is over ('''Tie''')
*0 points for a bot that is knocked out, disabled, or falls into a pit ('''Loss''')
*0 points awarded to a bot that is not ready for combat or is disqualified ('''Forfeit''')

This system is fine for informal matches and usually doesn't require impartial judgment. However, it's important that the term "disabled" is clearly defined and understood by all participants.

Since all types of bots must be able to disable their opponent, it's best if this variant is played in an arena with pits or other hazards that will potentially allow wedge bots and partially damaged bots a chance to win.

Events

2025-10-25T06:03:20Z

Chklnk: Enlarge thumb

[[File:WAR_Sportsman.jpg|thumb|400px|Sportsman Rumble at WAR]]
==Robot Event Clubs==
The '''[[Local Groups]]''' has local robot combat groups for you to visit or join!

==Finding Robot Combat Events==
Most events are listed on one of these sites:

*The '''[https://www.robotcombatevents.com RobotCombatEvents]''' website has Search and [https://www.robotcombatevents.com/event_map Map View] features to find events by location; perhaps there's one near you! If you don't see any close by, search for past events to learn which organizations operate nearby, and watch for their next event to be listed.

*The '''[https://www.buildersdb.com/ Builder's Database]''' site has been beautifully refreshed and has many of the same features. Check both sites to make sure you aren't missing any events in your area.

*The '''[https://bristolbotbuilders.com/events/ BBB Events Listing]''' features both UK and EU events.

*The '''[https://www.rampagebots.co.uk/events Rampage Events]''' page shows a variety of UK-based events.

==Hosting Your Own Robot Combat Events==
So you've got the robot combat bug and you want to host an event. You should attend one and volunteer to help to learn how they are run. If you are sure you want to make a poor life choice and host your own event, head over to '''[https://sparc.tools/ SPARC]''' for a treasure trove of information for Event Organizers, including Tournament Procedures, Match Rules, Judging Guidelines, Arena Construction and more. Once you've read everything then you need to think about where you'll store the arena, how it will be transported, where you will hold your events, and how will you get help running them. It's a big commitment and if you are ready to do it the rewards can be terrific but know what you are getting yourself into.

There are a lot of best-practices for Event Organizers on how to prepare for events, set things up so they run smoothly, and avoid common pitfalls. If you are serious about starting an event (it doesn't need to be a big event), send an email to robotcombatevents@gmail.com to be put into contact with other organizers.

File:WAR Sportsman.jpg

2025-10-25T05:57:42Z

Chklnk: Chklnk uploaded a new version of File:WAR Sportsman.jpg

== Summary ==
Sportsman rumble at Western Allied Robotics.

Events

2025-10-25T05:47:13Z

Chklnk: Visitors first

[[File:WAR_Sportsman.jpg|thumb|Sportsman Rumble at WAR]]
==Robot Event Clubs==
The '''[[Local Groups]]''' has local robot combat groups for you to visit or join!

==Finding Robot Combat Events==
Most events are listed on one of these sites:

*The '''[https://www.robotcombatevents.com RobotCombatEvents]''' website has Search and [https://www.robotcombatevents.com/event_map Map View] features to find events by location; perhaps there's one near you! If you don't see any close by, search for past events to learn which organizations operate nearby, and watch for their next event to be listed.

*The '''[https://www.buildersdb.com/ Builder's Database]''' site has been beautifully refreshed and has many of the same features. Check both sites to make sure you aren't missing any events in your area.

*The '''[https://bristolbotbuilders.com/events/ BBB Events Listing]''' features both UK and EU events.

*The '''[https://www.rampagebots.co.uk/events Rampage Events]''' page shows a variety of UK-based events.

==Hosting Your Own Robot Combat Events==
So you've got the robot combat bug and you want to host an event. You should attend one and volunteer to help to learn how they are run. If you are sure you want to make a poor life choice and host your own event, head over to '''[https://sparc.tools/ SPARC]''' for a treasure trove of information for Event Organizers, including Tournament Procedures, Match Rules, Judging Guidelines, Arena Construction and more. Once you've read everything then you need to think about where you'll store the arena, how it will be transported, where you will hold your events, and how will you get help running them. It's a big commitment and if you are ready to do it the rewards can be terrific but know what you are getting yourself into.

There are a lot of best-practices for Event Organizers on how to prepare for events, set things up so they run smoothly, and avoid common pitfalls. If you are serious about starting an event (it doesn't need to be a big event), send an email to robotcombatevents@gmail.com to be put into contact with other organizers.

Local Groups

2025-10-25T05:36:47Z

Chklnk: -UH Robotics +WAR +WRC +RoboWars QLD

=Local Groups, Clubs, and Organizations=
Here is a partial list of robot combat clubs, organizations, groups and individuals putting on events worldwide. Most hold multiple events each year. In all cases they should be thanked! If you are '''[[GettingStarted|planning on competing]]''', check with each event's organizer for the specific '''[[rules]]''' they will use.

'''Tip:''' Click arrows on the column headings to sort by name or location.
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+ Event Organizations
|-
! Organization !! State !! City !! Country !! Supported [[RobotClasses|Classes]] !! Discussion / Social
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/AdelaideRobotCombat/permalink/2049861968618530/ Adelaide Robot Combat] || South Australia || Adelaide || AU || 150g ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/alburywodogarobotbattles/ Albury Wodogaro Robot Battles] || New South Wales || Albury || AU || 150g ||
|-
| '''[http://www.angryroosterrobotics.com/ Angry Rooster Robotics]''' || Alabama || Huntsville || USA ||1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://www.facebook.com/pg/angryroosterrobotics/events
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/people/Antweight-World-Series/61567008475192/ Antweight World Series] || England (or touring) || Various || UK (touring) ||150g ||
|-
| [http://azroboticcombat.com/ Arizona Robotic Combat] || Arizona || Phoenix || USA ||150g, 1lb 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://www.facebook.com/groups/ArizonaRoboticCombat/
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2172601139696740 Backwoods Combat Robots] || Tennessee || Chapel Hill || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.battlebots.com/ Battlebots] || Nevada || Las Vegas || USA || 250lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057054446012 Bay Area Robotic Combat] || California || Richmond || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/Bayside-Robotics-104627878106463/ Bayside Robotics] || Delaware ||Newark || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/Beetleweight/ BeetleBelt] || England || Burgess Hill || UK || 3lb ||
|-
| [https://botgeddon.com/ Bot'Geddon] || California || Rocklin || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [http://www.botbrawl.ca/ Bot Brawl] || Ontario || Mississauga || CA || 1lb, 3lb, 30lb-Sumo, 150-Sumo ||
|-
| '''[https://bristolbotbuilders.com/events.html Bristol Bot Builders]''' || England || Bristol || UK || 150g, 3lb, 30lb || https://www.facebook.com/BristolBotBuilders/
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/Budget-Bot-Builders-112263420944455 Budget Bot Builders] || Colorado || Colorado Springs || USA || 150g ||
|-
| [https://bugglebots.com/ BuggleBots] || England || Bristol || UK || 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.carolinacombat.com/ Carolina Combat Robots] || North Carolina || Hickory || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.circpeoria.org/ Central Illinois Robotics Club] || Illinois || Peoria || USA || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/ColoradoCombatRobotics Colorado Combat Robotics] || Colorado || Denver || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/CombatRobotNZ Combat Robotics NZ] || Auckland || Grafton || NZ || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/437521800412767/ Combat Robots of Oklahoma] || Oklahoma || Tulsa || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://athena.ecs.csus.edu/~comprobo/Events.html Competitive Robotics at Sacramento State] || California || Sacramento || USA || 1lb ||
|-
| [http://www.dutchrobotgames.nl/ Dutch Robot Games] || Gelderland || Ulft || NL || 30lb ||
|-
| '''[https://www.evac-az.com/ East Valley Attack Combat (EVAC) Robotics]''' || Arizona || Tempe || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://discord.gg/aJmTKqssNm
|-
| '''[https://gscrl.org/ Garden State Combat Robotics League (GSCRL)]''' || New Jersey || Various || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://discord.gg/UtJQ3grksE
|-
| [https://mad-metal-machines.de/ German Roboteers Association] || Lower Saxony || Hannover || DE || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| '''[https://www.innovation-spark.org/ High Adrenaline Combat Robotics (HACR)]''' || Texas || Houston || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://discord.gg/654dyZzjVE https://www.facebook.com/groups/hacrusa/
|-
| [https://ipswichroboticssportsgroup.wordpress.com Ipswich Robotics Sport Group] || Queensland || Brisbane || AU || 150g, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://makerspacect.com/makerbattle/ MakerspaceCT] || Connecticut || Hartford || USA || 3lb ||
|-
| '''[https://macrobot.org/ Maryland Area Combat Robotics Organization (MACRO)]''' || Maryland || Baltimore || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb Sportsman || https://discord.gg/SXwArmv
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/events/216270486988808/ Melbourne Combat Robotics] || Victoria || Melbourne || AU || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.mtras.com/ Middle Tennessee Robotics Art Society] || Tennessee || Nashville || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| '''[https://midwestrobotcombat.com/ Midwest Robot Combat Association (MRCA)]''' || Milwaukee || Wisconsin || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb || https://discord.com/invite/Cdcdg4dFnq?ref=robotcombatwiki.com
|-
| Minnesota Combat Robotics || Minnesota || Eagan || USA || 150g, 1lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/missourirobotfights/ Missouri Robot Fights] || Missouri || Joplin || USA || 1lb ||
|-
| [https://gonrl.org National Robotics League] || Various || Various || USA || 15lb ||
|-
| [https://www.nerc.us North East Robotics Club] || Pennsylvania || Harrisburg || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2211361815847314/ North Texas Bot Battles] || Texas || Dallas/Fort Worth || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.nhrl.io/ National Havoc Robot League] || Connecticut || Norwalk || USA || 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [http://www.ohiorobotclub.com/ Ohio Robotics Club] || Ohio || Sandusky || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 6lb ||
|-
| [https://www.osubattlebots.org/ Oregon State Combat Robotics] || Oregon || Corvallis || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/QueenslandRoboticsSportsClub Queensland Robotics Sports Club] || Queensland || - || AU || - ||
|-
| [https://events.robocore.net/ RoboCore] || Minas Gerais || Santa Rita do Sapucaí || BR || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 30lb, 60lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/RobodojoUK/ RoboDojo] || England || York || UK || 150g, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [http://www.robotbattles.com/ Robot Battles] || Georgia || Atlanta || USA || 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [https://www.makemia.com/robot-riot Robot Riot] || Florida || West Palm Beach || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.rabidrva.com/ RABID - Richmond Area Bot Instigated Destruction] || Virginia || Richmond || USA || || https://discord.com/invite/H5wQnJXAVh
|-
| [http://robogames.net/ RoboGames] || California || Pleasanton (SF Bay Area) || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 60lb, 120lb, 250lb ||
|-
| [https://robotruckus.org/ Robot Ruckus] || Florida || Orlando || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 220lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| '''[https://www.robowars.org/ Robowars Australia]''' || Queensland || Brisbane || AU || 30lb || https://discord.gg/dPHYVa85fT
|-
| [https://kilobots.com/ Saskatoon Combat Robotics Club] || Saskatchewan || Saskatoon || CA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/smashbotz Smashbotz] || California || Los Angeles || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/640098953444052 Southern California Attack Robotics] || California || Walnut || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 15lb ||
|-
| [https://texasrobotcombat.com/ Texas Robot Combat] || Texas || Dallas || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.utahcombatrobotics.com/ Utah Combat Robotics] || Utah || Salt Lake City || USA || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://vegascombatrobotics.com/ Vegas Combat Robotics] || Nevada || Las Vegas || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| '''[https://westernalliedrobotics.com Western Allied Robotics]''' || Washington || Seattle || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb-Sportsman || https://www.facebook.com/groups/512154462223892/
|-
| '''[https://sites.google.com/view/wisconsin-robot-combat/ Wisconsin Robot Combat]''' || Wisconsin || Oconomowoc || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://www.facebook.com/WisconsinRobotCombat/
|}

==Defunct Robot Combat Events==
These events are no longer active.
* [https://botblast.webs.com/ Bot Blast]: 1lb and 3lb in Bloomburg Pennsylvania
* [https://tamurobomasters.com/ Texas Aimbots]: 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb in Bryan-College Station, Texas - adjunct program of Texas A&M Robomasters Robotics, combat series 2022-2024
* [http://antlog.garya.org.uk/ Bot Fest]: Liverpool, UK, 150g - 2018?
*[https://discord.gg/zefrc3BA Robotics @UH (University of Houston)]: Houston, Texas, 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb - Cougar Cup series 2023-2025

Sportsman Classes

2025-10-13T03:59:49Z

Chklnk: +Sportman vs. ND and links

What are Sportsman Robots? 
[[File:Sportsman.jpg|thumb|Sportsman Robot Storm Rider]]
Sportsman-class robots require an an active weapon, but limit the destructive power of the weapon to make them easier to build and easier to contain within arenas, and to increase the chances that the robots won't be completely destroyed in their matches. Requiring a weapon discourages slow wedge-on-wedge matches and is meant to make matches more exciting and entertaining. Lifters, hammers, and low KE (kinetic energy) saw blades are common in the class, but pneumatic flippers and crushers are also allowed.

The most common weight class for Sportsman robots is 30 pounds, but some events run 12 pound versions of the class and other heavier weights have been tried as well. The Sportsman class can be a great entry point to building your own large robot! Take a look at the '''[[Events]]''' page to steer you to events that run Sportsman class competitions.

"Sportsman" may sometimes be confusingly used to describe a non-destructive class (no chopping, sawing/cutting or crushing), but a non-destructive combat class match normally allows a bot to have wedge(s) without an active weapon. Be sure to talk to your '''[[Local Groups]]''' to see if they have variations on the standard rule set at '''[https://sparc.tools/ SPARC]'''. The event organizer's ultimate goal is to provide a safe and fun place for people to play with their robots.

RobotClasses

2025-10-13T03:35:06Z

Chklnk: /* Sportsman Class */ Link to orphan article

To keep matches fair, robots compete against others that are in a similar "class." The most common distinction is the weight class. Builders must be aware of which classes are allowed in the '''[[Events|events]]''' they participate in. Some robot classes are very popular while others are very rare; before you build a 6lb Mantisweight bot be sure that your chosen event runs that weight class.

[[File:Robot_Weight_Classes.jpg|thumb|1 pound Antweight to 60 pound Lightweight]]
=Weight Classes=

Weight class restricts the maximum fighting weight allowed for a robot.

'''Caution:''' Terms such as "Antweight" and "Beetleweight" differ across event regions as shown below.
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Robot Weight Classes
|-
! Class !! [https://sparc.tools/ SPARC] (USA) !! [https://www.fightingrobots.co.uk/ FRA] (UK) !! Special
|-
| Fleaweight || 75g || -- || --
|-
| Fairyweight || 150g || -- || --
|-
| Antweight || 1lb || 150g (0.33 lb) || --
|-
| Beetleweight || 3lb || 1.5kg (3.3 lb) || --
|-
| Mantisweight || 6lb || -- || --
|-
| Hobbyweight || 12lb || -- || Also [https://www.nhrl.io/ NHRL]
|-
| Dogeweight || 15lb || -- || [https://gonrl.org/ National Robotics League]
|-
| Featherweight || 30lb || 13.6kg (30lb) || --
|-
| Lightweight || 60lb || 30kg (66.1 lb) || --
|-
| Middleweight || 120lb || 55kg (121lb) || --
|-
| Heavyweight || 220lb || 110kg (242.5 lb) || --
|-
| TV-Heavyweight || 250lb || -- || [https://battlebots.com/ BattleBots®]
|}

Often weight bonuses will be offered for specific design features. For example, SPARC rules allow for bots to be up to 25% heavier for bots which shuffle instead of roll, or double weight for bots which fully qualify as Walker (able to walk without rolling or cam-operated mechanics). Likewise, BattleBots heavyweights can currently be up to 500.0 pounds if they can walk using articulated legs, and meet a number of other design criteria. Sometimes autonomous features may qualify for weight bonus.

Weight classes may include size restrictions; for example, 150g Antweight (UK) is generally required to fit within a 100x100x100mm cube. Read the event '''[[Rules|rules]]''' for details.

=Weapon Restricted Classes=
These robot classes align with an existing weight class, but have further restrictions on what [[Weapons|weapons]] can be used as well as other possible restrictions on things like using ground-scraping wedges. These are often chosen for events where they don't have an arena that can safely contain a full-combat robot; for example, spinning weapons may be forbidden, or limited in kinetic energy.

Before entering this type of competition, please read your event's rules to understand the restrictions.

==Non-Destructive Class==
Robots in non-destructive classes are not allowed to use saws, piercing weapons, fire, etc. to damage other bots. Flipping, throwing, and impact damage are permitted. There is normally a pit available so that robots without active weapons (wedges) can knock their opponents out of the arena. This is ideal for builders who don't want their creations so easily destroyed.

Other classes in the same event may be labeled "destructive" for clarity.

==Sportsman Class==
Robots qualifying for '''[[Sportsman Classes|Sportsman class]]''' according to SPARC rules must have an active weapon. Wedges may be restricted in number or type. Spinning weapons are limited in tip speed except when the tooth pitch is fine enough to qualify them as saws or saw-like weapons; drills are also permitted. These rules, as well as any additional restrictions that may apply, serve to limit weapon energy and force, and therefore limit damage to the arena and injury to participants and the audience. Event rules may vary according to the arena itself, and must be studied by all competitors in this class.

=Construction Restricted Classes=
These classes place restrictions on construction materials and methods.

==Plastic Ant==
In an effort to make robot building more accessible the '''[[Plastic_Antweights|plastic antweight]]''' class was started by '''[https://westernalliedrobotics.com Western Allied Robotics]'''. These robots are primarily 3d printed but can be fabricated out of approved plastics. The robot class became popular and the rules were adopted by '''[https://sparc.tools/ SPARC]'''.

==Termiteweight==
There are kits to construct combat robots from laser-cut wood pieces. They have all the parts needed to construct the robot and the transmitter, but no spares in case of damage. This type of bot is humorously known as "termite weight," and while they could in theory be entered into organized competition in the 1lb class, they have many serious disadvantages compared to normal 1lb opponents, such as plastic motor gears, lower battery capacity, and slower battery charging (or non-rechargeable batteries). Termite kits are fun, but are unlikely to succeed against more robust bots.

==Lego==
You can also build combat robots with Lego® bricks, motors, and remote controls. (Select non-Lego components such as BuWizz parts may be permitted.) Brick fan and builder community events such as BrickFair showcase Lego combat bots with most of the common combat robot weapons, each designed with structures for optimal defense against hard impacts.

These events have their own rules (for example, the BattleBricks rules, or the CRBL or '''[https://discord.com/invite/yyZHyqXS8M Combat Robotics Brick League]''' rules). Since weight classes, weight bonuses, parts selection, etc. are so different, and because they are unlikely to survive an encounter with a regular combat robot of a similar weight, these won't be covered in this wiki.

=Technology Restricted Classes=

==Autonomous==
This very unusual restriction requires builders to compete with robots that can find their opponents, drive themselves where needed, and make their own decisions about how to attack. Remote control of the robot is not allowed while the match is in progress. This can be done with simple sensors that cause the robot to travel all over the area and attack whatever they bump into. It is more effective using open-source machine vision, combined with either basic algorithms, machine learning, or even AI. Robotic mapping can be used to either use or avoid the arena boundaries to best effect.

=Historic Weight Classes=
120 lb was the competition class for high school and collegiate educational program '''BattleBots IQ'''. Later the program added a 15 lb Mini Class bot competition; 120 lb became Large Class.

Heavyweight bots have historically varied from 100-110kg, and there was once a 340 pound Super Heavyweight Battlebots class.

'''[https://robotwars.fandom.com/wiki/Weight_Classes This article]''' covers much of the history of weight classes in robot combat.

'''[https://www.teamdelta.com/roboglad/index.html Learn about the original 1999 Lego Robogladiators]''' from Dan at Team Delta.

Local Groups

2025-10-09T02:16:09Z

Chklnk: /* Past Event Pages */ stray bracket

=Local Groups, Clubs, and Organizations=
Here is a partial list of robot combat clubs, organizations, groups and individuals putting on events worldwide. Most hold multiple events each year. In all cases they should be thanked! If you are '''[[GettingStarted|planning on competing]]''', check with each event's organizer for the specific '''[[rules]]''' they will use.

'''Tip:''' Click arrows on the column headings to sort by name or location.
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+ Event Organizations
|-
! Organization !! State !! City !! Country !! Supported [[RobotClasses|Classes]] !! Discussion / Social
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/AdelaideRobotCombat/permalink/2049861968618530/ Adelaide Robot Combat] || South Australia || Adelaide || AU || 150g ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/alburywodogarobotbattles/ Albury Wodogaro Robot Battles] || New South Wales || Albury || AU || 150g ||
|-
| '''[http://www.angryroosterrobotics.com/ Angry Rooster Robotics]''' || Alabama || Huntsville || USA ||1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://www.facebook.com/pg/angryroosterrobotics/events
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/people/Antweight-World-Series/61567008475192/ Antweight World Series] || England (or touring) || Various || UK (touring) ||150g ||
|-
| [http://azroboticcombat.com/ Arizona Robotic Combat] || Arizona || Phoenix || USA ||150g, 1lb 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://www.facebook.com/groups/ArizonaRoboticCombat/
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2172601139696740 Backwoods Combat Robots] || Tennessee || Chapel Hill || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.battlebots.com/ Battlebots] || Nevada || Las Vegas || USA || 250lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057054446012 Bay Area Robotic Combat] || California || Richmond || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/Bayside-Robotics-104627878106463/ Bayside Robotics] || Delaware ||Newark || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/Beetleweight/ BeetleBelt] || England || Burgess Hill || UK || 3lb ||
|-
| [https://botgeddon.com/ Bot'Geddon] || California || Rocklin || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [http://www.botbrawl.ca/ Bot Brawl] || Ontario || Mississauga || CA || 1lb, 3lb, 30lb-Sumo, 150-Sumo ||
|-
| '''[https://bristolbotbuilders.com/events.html Bristol Bot Builders]''' || England || Bristol || UK || 150g, 3lb, 30lb || https://www.facebook.com/BristolBotBuilders/
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/Budget-Bot-Builders-112263420944455 Budget Bot Builders] || Colorado || Colorado Springs || USA || 150g ||
|-
| [https://bugglebots.com/ BuggleBots] || England || Bristol || UK || 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.carolinacombat.com/ Carolina Combat Robots] || North Carolina || Hickory || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.circpeoria.org/ Central Illinois Robotics Club] || Illinois || Peoria || USA || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/ColoradoCombatRobotics Colorado Combat Robotics] || Colorado || Denver || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/CombatRobotNZ Combat Robotics NZ] || Auckland || Grafton || NZ || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/437521800412767/ Combat Robots of Oklahoma] || Oklahoma || Tulsa || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://athena.ecs.csus.edu/~comprobo/Events.html Competitive Robotics at Sacramento State] || California || Sacramento || USA || 1lb ||
|-
| [http://www.dutchrobotgames.nl/ Dutch Robot Games] || Gelderland || Ulft || NL || 30lb ||
|-
| '''[https://www.evac-az.com/ East Valley Attack Combat (EVAC) Robotics]''' || Arizona || Tempe || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://discord.gg/aJmTKqssNm
|-
| '''[https://gscrl.org/ Garden State Combat Robotics League (GSCRL)]''' || New Jersey || Various || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://discord.gg/UtJQ3grksE
|-
| [https://mad-metal-machines.de/ German Roboteers Association] || Lower Saxony || Hannover || DE || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| '''[https://www.innovation-spark.org/ High Adrenaline Combat Robotics (HACR)]''' || Texas || Houston || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://discord.gg/654dyZzjVE https://www.facebook.com/groups/hacrusa/
|-
| [https://ipswichroboticssportsgroup.wordpress.com Ipswich Robotics Sport Group] || Queensland || Brisbane || AU || 150g, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://makerspacect.com/makerbattle/ MakerspaceCT] || Connecticut || Hartford || USA || 3lb ||
|-
| '''[https://macrobot.org/ Maryland Area Combat Robotics Organization (MACRO)]''' || Maryland || Baltimore || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb Sportsman || https://discord.gg/SXwArmv
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/events/216270486988808/ Melbourne Combat Robotics] || Victoria || Melbourne || AU || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.mtras.com/ Middle Tennessee Robotics Art Society] || Tennessee || Nashville || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| '''[https://midwestrobotcombat.com/ Midwest Robot Combat Association (MRCA)]''' || Milwaukee || Wisconsin || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb || https://discord.com/invite/Cdcdg4dFnq?ref=robotcombatwiki.com
|-
| Minnesota Combat Robotics || Minnesota || Eagan || USA || 150g, 1lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/missourirobotfights/ Missouri Robot Fights] || Missouri || Joplin || USA || 1lb ||
|-
| [https://gonrl.org National Robotics League] || Various || Various || USA || 15lb ||
|-
| [https://www.nerc.us North East Robotics Club] || Pennsylvania || Harrisburg || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2211361815847314/ North Texas Bot Battles] || Texas || Dallas/Fort Worth || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.nhrl.io/ National Havoc Robot League] || Connecticut || Norwalk || USA || 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [http://www.ohiorobotclub.com/ Ohio Robotics Club] || Ohio || Sandusky || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 6lb ||
|-
| [https://www.osubattlebots.org/ Oregon State Combat Robotics] || Oregon || Corvallis || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/QueenslandRoboticsSportsClub Queensland Robotics Sports Club] || Queensland || - || AU || - ||
|-
| [https://events.robocore.net/ RoboCore] || Minas Gerais || Santa Rita do Sapucaí || BR || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 30lb, 60lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/RobodojoUK/ RoboDojo] || England || York || UK || 150g, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [http://www.robotbattles.com/ Robot Battles] || Georgia || Atlanta || USA || 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [https://discord.gg/zefrc3BA Robotics @UH (University of Houston)] || Texas || Houston || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.makemia.com/robot-riot Robot Riot] || Florida || West Palm Beach || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.rabidrva.com/ RABID - Richmond Area Bot Instigated Destruction] || Virginia || Richmond || USA || || https://discord.com/invite/H5wQnJXAVh
|-
| [http://robogames.net/ RoboGames] || California || Pleasanton (SF Bay Area) || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 60lb, 120lb, 250lb ||
|-
| [https://robotruckus.org/ Robot Ruckus] || Florida || Orlando || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 220lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [http://www.robowars.org/ Robowars Australia] || Queensland || Brisbane || AU || 30lb ||
|-
| [https://kilobots.com/ Saskatoon Combat Robotics Club] || Saskatchewan || Saskatoon || CA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/smashbotz Smashbotz] || California || Los Angeles || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/640098953444052 Southern California Attack Robotics] || California || Walnut || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 15lb ||
|-
| [https://texasrobotcombat.com/ Texas Robot Combat] || Texas || Dallas || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.utahcombatrobotics.com/ Utah Combat Robotics] || Utah || Salt Lake City || USA || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://vegascombatrobotics.com/ Vegas Combat Robotics] || Nevada || Las Vegas || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://westernalliedrobotics.com Western Allied Robotics] || Washington || Seattle || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://https://discord.gg/hzvM5zQURg Wisconsin Robot Combat] || Wisconsin || Oconomowoc || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|}

==Past Event Pages==
These events are no longer active.
* [https://botblast.webs.com/ Bot Blast]: 1lb and 3lb in Bloomburg Pennsylvania
* [https://tamurobomasters.com/ Texas Aimbots]: 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb in Bryan-College Station, Texas - adjunct program of Texas A&M Robomasters Robotics, combat series 2022-2024
* [http://antlog.garya.org.uk/ Bot Fest]: Liverpool, UK, 150g - 2018?

Local Groups

2025-10-09T02:15:45Z

Chklnk: -Bot Fest +BBB

=Local Groups, Clubs, and Organizations=
Here is a partial list of robot combat clubs, organizations, groups and individuals putting on events worldwide. Most hold multiple events each year. In all cases they should be thanked! If you are '''[[GettingStarted|planning on competing]]''', check with each event's organizer for the specific '''[[rules]]''' they will use.

'''Tip:''' Click arrows on the column headings to sort by name or location.
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+ Event Organizations
|-
! Organization !! State !! City !! Country !! Supported [[RobotClasses|Classes]] !! Discussion / Social
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/AdelaideRobotCombat/permalink/2049861968618530/ Adelaide Robot Combat] || South Australia || Adelaide || AU || 150g ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/alburywodogarobotbattles/ Albury Wodogaro Robot Battles] || New South Wales || Albury || AU || 150g ||
|-
| '''[http://www.angryroosterrobotics.com/ Angry Rooster Robotics]''' || Alabama || Huntsville || USA ||1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://www.facebook.com/pg/angryroosterrobotics/events
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/people/Antweight-World-Series/61567008475192/ Antweight World Series] || England (or touring) || Various || UK (touring) ||150g ||
|-
| [http://azroboticcombat.com/ Arizona Robotic Combat] || Arizona || Phoenix || USA ||150g, 1lb 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://www.facebook.com/groups/ArizonaRoboticCombat/
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2172601139696740 Backwoods Combat Robots] || Tennessee || Chapel Hill || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.battlebots.com/ Battlebots] || Nevada || Las Vegas || USA || 250lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057054446012 Bay Area Robotic Combat] || California || Richmond || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/Bayside-Robotics-104627878106463/ Bayside Robotics] || Delaware ||Newark || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/Beetleweight/ BeetleBelt] || England || Burgess Hill || UK || 3lb ||
|-
| [https://botgeddon.com/ Bot'Geddon] || California || Rocklin || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [http://www.botbrawl.ca/ Bot Brawl] || Ontario || Mississauga || CA || 1lb, 3lb, 30lb-Sumo, 150-Sumo ||
|-
| '''[https://bristolbotbuilders.com/events.html Bristol Bot Builders]''' || England || Bristol || UK || 150g, 3lb, 30lb || https://www.facebook.com/BristolBotBuilders/
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/Budget-Bot-Builders-112263420944455 Budget Bot Builders] || Colorado || Colorado Springs || USA || 150g ||
|-
| [https://bugglebots.com/ BuggleBots] || England || Bristol || UK || 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.carolinacombat.com/ Carolina Combat Robots] || North Carolina || Hickory || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.circpeoria.org/ Central Illinois Robotics Club] || Illinois || Peoria || USA || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/ColoradoCombatRobotics Colorado Combat Robotics] || Colorado || Denver || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/CombatRobotNZ Combat Robotics NZ] || Auckland || Grafton || NZ || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/437521800412767/ Combat Robots of Oklahoma] || Oklahoma || Tulsa || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://athena.ecs.csus.edu/~comprobo/Events.html Competitive Robotics at Sacramento State] || California || Sacramento || USA || 1lb ||
|-
| [http://www.dutchrobotgames.nl/ Dutch Robot Games] || Gelderland || Ulft || NL || 30lb ||
|-
| '''[https://www.evac-az.com/ East Valley Attack Combat (EVAC) Robotics]''' || Arizona || Tempe || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://discord.gg/aJmTKqssNm
|-
| '''[https://gscrl.org/ Garden State Combat Robotics League (GSCRL)]''' || New Jersey || Various || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://discord.gg/UtJQ3grksE
|-
| [https://mad-metal-machines.de/ German Roboteers Association] || Lower Saxony || Hannover || DE || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| '''[https://www.innovation-spark.org/ High Adrenaline Combat Robotics (HACR)]''' || Texas || Houston || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://discord.gg/654dyZzjVE https://www.facebook.com/groups/hacrusa/
|-
| [https://ipswichroboticssportsgroup.wordpress.com Ipswich Robotics Sport Group] || Queensland || Brisbane || AU || 150g, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://makerspacect.com/makerbattle/ MakerspaceCT] || Connecticut || Hartford || USA || 3lb ||
|-
| '''[https://macrobot.org/ Maryland Area Combat Robotics Organization (MACRO)]''' || Maryland || Baltimore || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb Sportsman || https://discord.gg/SXwArmv
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/events/216270486988808/ Melbourne Combat Robotics] || Victoria || Melbourne || AU || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.mtras.com/ Middle Tennessee Robotics Art Society] || Tennessee || Nashville || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| '''[https://midwestrobotcombat.com/ Midwest Robot Combat Association (MRCA)]''' || Milwaukee || Wisconsin || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb || https://discord.com/invite/Cdcdg4dFnq?ref=robotcombatwiki.com
|-
| Minnesota Combat Robotics || Minnesota || Eagan || USA || 150g, 1lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/missourirobotfights/ Missouri Robot Fights] || Missouri || Joplin || USA || 1lb ||
|-
| [https://gonrl.org National Robotics League] || Various || Various || USA || 15lb ||
|-
| [https://www.nerc.us North East Robotics Club] || Pennsylvania || Harrisburg || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2211361815847314/ North Texas Bot Battles] || Texas || Dallas/Fort Worth || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.nhrl.io/ National Havoc Robot League] || Connecticut || Norwalk || USA || 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [http://www.ohiorobotclub.com/ Ohio Robotics Club] || Ohio || Sandusky || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 6lb ||
|-
| [https://www.osubattlebots.org/ Oregon State Combat Robotics] || Oregon || Corvallis || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/QueenslandRoboticsSportsClub Queensland Robotics Sports Club] || Queensland || - || AU || - ||
|-
| [https://events.robocore.net/ RoboCore] || Minas Gerais || Santa Rita do Sapucaí || BR || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 30lb, 60lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/RobodojoUK/ RoboDojo] || England || York || UK || 150g, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [http://www.robotbattles.com/ Robot Battles] || Georgia || Atlanta || USA || 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [https://discord.gg/zefrc3BA Robotics @UH (University of Houston)] || Texas || Houston || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.makemia.com/robot-riot Robot Riot] || Florida || West Palm Beach || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.rabidrva.com/ RABID - Richmond Area Bot Instigated Destruction] || Virginia || Richmond || USA || || https://discord.com/invite/H5wQnJXAVh
|-
| [http://robogames.net/ RoboGames] || California || Pleasanton (SF Bay Area) || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 60lb, 120lb, 250lb ||
|-
| [https://robotruckus.org/ Robot Ruckus] || Florida || Orlando || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 220lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [http://www.robowars.org/ Robowars Australia] || Queensland || Brisbane || AU || 30lb ||
|-
| [https://kilobots.com/ Saskatoon Combat Robotics Club] || Saskatchewan || Saskatoon || CA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/smashbotz Smashbotz] || California || Los Angeles || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/640098953444052 Southern California Attack Robotics] || California || Walnut || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 15lb ||
|-
| [https://texasrobotcombat.com/ Texas Robot Combat] || Texas || Dallas || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.utahcombatrobotics.com/ Utah Combat Robotics] || Utah || Salt Lake City || USA || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://vegascombatrobotics.com/ Vegas Combat Robotics] || Nevada || Las Vegas || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://westernalliedrobotics.com Western Allied Robotics] || Washington || Seattle || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://https://discord.gg/hzvM5zQURg Wisconsin Robot Combat] || Wisconsin || Oconomowoc || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|}

==Past Event Pages==
These events are no longer active.
* [https://botblast.webs.com/ Bot Blast]: 1lb and 3lb in Bloomburg Pennsylvania]
* [https://tamurobomasters.com/ Texas Aimbots]: 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb in Bryan-College Station, Texas - adjunct program of Texas A&M Robomasters Robotics, combat series 2022-2024
* [http://antlog.garya.org.uk/ Bot Fest]: Liverpool, UK, 150g - 2018?

Local Groups

2025-10-09T02:05:24Z

Chklnk: +EVAC

=Local Groups, Clubs, and Organizations=
Here is a partial list of robot combat clubs, organizations, groups and individuals putting on events worldwide. Most hold multiple events each year. In all cases they should be thanked! If you are '''[[GettingStarted|planning on competing]]''', check with each event's organizer for the specific '''[[rules]]''' they will use.

'''Tip:''' Click arrows on the column headings to sort by name or location.
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+ Event Organizations
|-
! Organization !! State !! City !! Country !! Supported [[RobotClasses|Classes]] !! Discussion / Social
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/AdelaideRobotCombat/permalink/2049861968618530/ Adelaide Robot Combat] || South Australia || Adelaide || AU || 150g ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/alburywodogarobotbattles/ Albury Wodogaro Robot Battles] || New South Wales || Albury || AU || 150g ||
|-
| '''[http://www.angryroosterrobotics.com/ Angry Rooster Robotics]''' || Alabama || Huntsville || USA ||1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://www.facebook.com/pg/angryroosterrobotics/events
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/people/Antweight-World-Series/61567008475192/ Antweight World Series] || England (or touring) || Various || UK (touring) ||150g ||
|-
| [http://azroboticcombat.com/ Arizona Robotic Combat] || Arizona || Phoenix || USA ||150g, 1lb 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://www.facebook.com/groups/ArizonaRoboticCombat/
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2172601139696740 Backwoods Combat Robots] || Tennessee || Chapel Hill || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.battlebots.com/ Battlebots] || Nevada || Las Vegas || USA || 250lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057054446012 Bay Area Robotic Combat] || California || Richmond || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/Bayside-Robotics-104627878106463/ Bayside Robotics] || Delaware ||Newark || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/Beetleweight/ BeetleBelt] || England || Burgess Hill || UK || 3lb ||
|-
| [https://botgeddon.com/ Bot'Geddon] || California || Rocklin || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [http://www.botbrawl.ca/ Bot Brawl] || Ontario || Mississauga || CA || 1lb, 3lb, 30lb-Sumo, 150-Sumo ||
|-
| [http://antlog.garya.org.uk/ Bot Fest] || England || Liverpool || UK || 150g ||
|-
| [https://bristolbotbuilders.com/events.html Bristol Bot Builders] || England || Bristol || UK || 150g, 3lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/Budget-Bot-Builders-112263420944455 Budget Bot Builders] || Colorado || Colorado Springs || USA || 150g ||
|-
| [https://bugglebots.com/ BuggleBots] || England || Bristol || UK || 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.carolinacombat.com/ Carolina Combat Robots] || North Carolina || Hickory || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.circpeoria.org/ Central Illinois Robotics Club] || Illinois || Peoria || USA || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/ColoradoCombatRobotics Colorado Combat Robotics] || Colorado || Denver || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/CombatRobotNZ Combat Robotics NZ] || Auckland || Grafton || NZ || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/437521800412767/ Combat Robots of Oklahoma] || Oklahoma || Tulsa || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://athena.ecs.csus.edu/~comprobo/Events.html Competitive Robotics at Sacramento State] || California || Sacramento || USA || 1lb ||
|-
| [http://www.dutchrobotgames.nl/ Dutch Robot Games] || Gelderland || Ulft || NL || 30lb ||
|-
| '''[https://www.evac-az.com/ East Valley Attack Combat (EVAC) Robotics]''' || Arizona || Tempe || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://discord.gg/aJmTKqssNm
|-
| '''[https://gscrl.org/ Garden State Combat Robotics League (GSCRL)]''' || New Jersey || Various || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://discord.gg/UtJQ3grksE
|-
| [https://mad-metal-machines.de/ German Roboteers Association] || Lower Saxony || Hannover || DE || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| '''[https://www.innovation-spark.org/ High Adrenaline Combat Robotics (HACR)]''' || Texas || Houston || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://discord.gg/654dyZzjVE https://www.facebook.com/groups/hacrusa/
|-
| [https://ipswichroboticssportsgroup.wordpress.com Ipswich Robotics Sport Group] || Queensland || Brisbane || AU || 150g, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://makerspacect.com/makerbattle/ MakerspaceCT] || Connecticut || Hartford || USA || 3lb ||
|-
| '''[https://macrobot.org/ Maryland Area Combat Robotics Organization (MACRO)]''' || Maryland || Baltimore || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb Sportsman || https://discord.gg/SXwArmv
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/events/216270486988808/ Melbourne Combat Robotics] || Victoria || Melbourne || AU || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.mtras.com/ Middle Tennessee Robotics Art Society] || Tennessee || Nashville || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| '''[https://midwestrobotcombat.com/ Midwest Robot Combat Association (MRCA)]''' || Milwaukee || Wisconsin || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb || https://discord.com/invite/Cdcdg4dFnq?ref=robotcombatwiki.com
|-
| Minnesota Combat Robotics || Minnesota || Eagan || USA || 150g, 1lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/missourirobotfights/ Missouri Robot Fights] || Missouri || Joplin || USA || 1lb ||
|-
| [https://gonrl.org National Robotics League] || Various || Various || USA || 15lb ||
|-
| [https://www.nerc.us North East Robotics Club] || Pennsylvania || Harrisburg || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2211361815847314/ North Texas Bot Battles] || Texas || Dallas/Fort Worth || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.nhrl.io/ National Havoc Robot League] || Connecticut || Norwalk || USA || 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [http://www.ohiorobotclub.com/ Ohio Robotics Club] || Ohio || Sandusky || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 6lb ||
|-
| [https://www.osubattlebots.org/ Oregon State Combat Robotics] || Oregon || Corvallis || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/QueenslandRoboticsSportsClub Queensland Robotics Sports Club] || Queensland || - || AU || - ||
|-
| [https://events.robocore.net/ RoboCore] || Minas Gerais || Santa Rita do Sapucaí || BR || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 30lb, 60lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/RobodojoUK/ RoboDojo] || England || York || UK || 150g, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [http://www.robotbattles.com/ Robot Battles] || Georgia || Atlanta || USA || 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [https://discord.gg/zefrc3BA Robotics @UH (University of Houston)] || Texas || Houston || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.makemia.com/robot-riot Robot Riot] || Florida || West Palm Beach || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.rabidrva.com/ RABID - Richmond Area Bot Instigated Destruction] || Virginia || Richmond || USA || || https://discord.com/invite/H5wQnJXAVh
|-
| [http://robogames.net/ RoboGames] || California || Pleasanton (SF Bay Area) || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 60lb, 120lb, 250lb ||
|-
| [https://robotruckus.org/ Robot Ruckus] || Florida || Orlando || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 220lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [http://www.robowars.org/ Robowars Australia] || Queensland || Brisbane || AU || 30lb ||
|-
| [https://kilobots.com/ Saskatoon Combat Robotics Club] || Saskatchewan || Saskatoon || CA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/smashbotz Smashbotz] || California || Los Angeles || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/640098953444052 Southern California Attack Robotics] || California || Walnut || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 15lb ||
|-
| [https://texasrobotcombat.com/ Texas Robot Combat] || Texas || Dallas || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.utahcombatrobotics.com/ Utah Combat Robotics] || Utah || Salt Lake City || USA || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://vegascombatrobotics.com/ Vegas Combat Robotics] || Nevada || Las Vegas || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://westernalliedrobotics.com Western Allied Robotics] || Washington || Seattle || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://https://discord.gg/hzvM5zQURg Wisconsin Robot Combat] || Wisconsin || Oconomowoc || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|}

==Past Event Pages==
These events are no longer active.
* [https://botblast.webs.com/ Bot Blast: 1lb and 3lb in Bloomburg Pennsylvania]
* [https://tamurobomasters.com/ Texas Aimbots: 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb in Bryan-College Station, Texas] - adjunct program of Texas A&M Robomasters Robotics, combat series 2022-2024

Local Groups

2025-10-08T04:49:57Z

Chklnk: +GSCRL

=Local Groups, Clubs, and Organizations=
Here is a partial list of robot combat clubs, organizations, groups and individuals putting on events worldwide. Most hold multiple events each year. In all cases they should be thanked! If you are '''[[GettingStarted|planning on competing]]''', check with each event's organizer for the specific '''[[rules]]''' they will use.

'''Tip:''' Click arrows on the column headings to sort by name or location.
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+ Event Organizations
|-
! Organization !! State !! City !! Country !! Supported [[RobotClasses|Classes]] !! Discussion / Social
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/AdelaideRobotCombat/permalink/2049861968618530/ Adelaide Robot Combat] || South Australia || Adelaide || AU || 150g ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/alburywodogarobotbattles/ Albury Wodogaro Robot Battles] || New South Wales || Albury || AU || 150g ||
|-
| [http://www.angryroosterrobotics.com/ Angry Rooster Robotics] || Alabama || Huntsville || USA ||1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://www.facebook.com/pg/angryroosterrobotics/events
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/people/Antweight-World-Series/61567008475192/ Antweight World Series] || England (or touring) || Various || UK (touring) ||150g ||
|-
| [http://azroboticcombat.com/ Arizona Robotic Combat] || Arizona || Phoenix || USA ||150g, 1lb 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://www.facebook.com/groups/ArizonaRoboticCombat/
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2172601139696740 Backwoods Combat Robots] || Tennessee || Chapel Hill || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.battlebots.com/ Battlebots] || Nevada || Las Vegas || USA || 250lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057054446012 Bay Area Robotic Combat] || California || Richmond || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/Bayside-Robotics-104627878106463/ Bayside Robotics] || Delaware ||Newark || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/Beetleweight/ BeetleBelt] || England || Burgess Hill || UK || 3lb ||
|-
| [https://botgeddon.com/ Bot'Geddon] || California || Rocklin || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [http://www.botbrawl.ca/ Bot Brawl] || Ontario || Mississauga || CA || 1lb, 3lb, 30lb-Sumo, 150-Sumo ||
|-
| [http://antlog.garya.org.uk/ Bot Fest] || England || Liverpool || UK || 150g ||
|-
| [https://bristolbotbuilders.com/events.html Bristol Bot Builders] || England || Bristol || UK || 150g, 3lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/Budget-Bot-Builders-112263420944455 Budget Bot Builders] || Colorado || Colorado Springs || USA || 150g ||
|-
| [https://bugglebots.com/ BuggleBots] || England || Bristol || UK || 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.carolinacombat.com/ Carolina Combat Robots] || North Carolina || Hickory || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.circpeoria.org/ Central Illinois Robotics Club] || Illinois || Peoria || USA || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/ColoradoCombatRobotics Colorado Combat Robotics] || Colorado || Denver || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/CombatRobotNZ Combat Robotics NZ] || Auckland || Grafton || NZ || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/437521800412767/ Combat Robots of Oklahoma] || Oklahoma || Tulsa || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://athena.ecs.csus.edu/~comprobo/Events.html Competitive Robotics at Sacramento State] || California || Sacramento || USA || 1lb ||
|-
| [http://www.dutchrobotgames.nl/ Dutch Robot Games] || Gelderland || Ulft || NL || 30lb ||
|-
| '''[https://gscrl.org/ Garden State Combat Robotics League (GSCRL)]''' || New Jersey || Various || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://discord.gg/UtJQ3grksE
|-
| [https://mad-metal-machines.de/ German Roboteers Association] || Lower Saxony || Hannover || DE || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| '''[https://www.innovation-spark.org/ High Adrenaline Combat Robotics]''' || Texas || Houston || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://discord.gg/654dyZzjVE https://www.facebook.com/groups/hacrusa/
|-
| [https://ipswichroboticssportsgroup.wordpress.com Ipswich Robotics Sport Group] || Queensland || Brisbane || AU || 150g, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://makerspacect.com/makerbattle/ MakerspaceCT] || Connecticut || Hartford || USA || 3lb ||
|-
| '''[https://macrobot.org/ Maryland Area Combat Robotics Organization (MACRO)]''' || Maryland || Baltimore || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb Sportsman || https://discord.gg/SXwArmv
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/events/216270486988808/ Melbourne Combat Robotics] || Victoria || Melbourne || AU || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.mtras.com/ Middle Tennessee Robotics Art Society] || Tennessee || Nashville || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| '''[https://midwestrobotcombat.com/ Midwest Robot Combat Association (MRCA)]''' || Milwaukee || Wisconsin || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb || https://discord.com/invite/Cdcdg4dFnq?ref=robotcombatwiki.com
|-
| Minnesota Combat Robotics || Minnesota || Eagan || USA || 150g, 1lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/missourirobotfights/ Missouri Robot Fights] || Missouri || Joplin || USA || 1lb ||
|-
| [https://gonrl.org National Robotics League] || Various || Various || USA || 15lb ||
|-
| [https://www.nerc.us North East Robotics Club] || Pennsylvania || Harrisburg || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2211361815847314/ North Texas Bot Battles] || Texas || Dallas/Fort Worth || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.nhrl.io/ National Havoc Robot League] || Connecticut || Norwalk || USA || 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [http://www.ohiorobotclub.com/ Ohio Robotics Club] || Ohio || Sandusky || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 6lb ||
|-
| [https://www.osubattlebots.org/ Oregon State Combat Robotics] || Oregon || Corvallis || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/QueenslandRoboticsSportsClub Queensland Robotics Sports Club] || Queensland || - || AU || - ||
|-
| [https://events.robocore.net/ RoboCore] || Minas Gerais || Santa Rita do Sapucaí || BR || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 30lb, 60lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/RobodojoUK/ RoboDojo] || England || York || UK || 150g, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [http://www.robotbattles.com/ Robot Battles] || Georgia || Atlanta || USA || 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [https://discord.gg/zefrc3BA Robotics @UH (University of Houston)] || Texas || Houston || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.makemia.com/robot-riot Robot Riot] || Florida || West Palm Beach || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.rabidrva.com/ RABID - Richmond Area Bot Instigated Destruction] || Virginia || Richmond || USA || || https://discord.com/invite/H5wQnJXAVh
|-
| [http://robogames.net/ RoboGames] || California || Pleasanton (SF Bay Area) || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 60lb, 120lb, 250lb ||
|-
| [https://robotruckus.org/ Robot Ruckus] || Florida || Orlando || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 220lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [http://www.robowars.org/ Robowars Australia] || Queensland || Brisbane || AU || 30lb ||
|-
| [https://kilobots.com/ Saskatoon Combat Robotics Club] || Saskatchewan || Saskatoon || CA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/smashbotz Smashbotz] || California || Los Angeles || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/640098953444052 Southern California Attack Robotics] || California || Walnut || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 15lb ||
|-
| [https://texasrobotcombat.com/ Texas Robot Combat] || Texas || Dallas || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.utahcombatrobotics.com/ Utah Combat Robotics] || Utah || Salt Lake City || USA || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://vegascombatrobotics.com/ Vegas Combat Robotics] || Nevada || Las Vegas || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://westernalliedrobotics.com Western Allied Robotics] || Washington || Seattle || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://https://discord.gg/hzvM5zQURg Wisconsin Robot Combat] || Wisconsin || Oconomowoc || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|}

==Past Event Pages==
These events are no longer active.
* [https://botblast.webs.com/ Bot Blast: 1lb and 3lb in Bloomburg Pennsylvania]
* [https://tamurobomasters.com/ Texas Aimbots: 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb in Bryan-College Station, Texas] - adjunct program of Texas A&M Robomasters Robotics, combat series 2022-2024

Local Groups

2025-10-06T02:51:00Z

Chklnk: /* Local Groups, Clubs, and Organizations */ Update MACRO, MRCA

=Local Groups, Clubs, and Organizations=
Here is a partial list of robot combat clubs, organizations groups or individuals putting on events worldwide. Most hold multiple events each year. In all cases they should be thanked! If you are '''[[GettingStarted|planning on competing]]''', check with each event's organizer for the specific '''[[rules]]''' they will use.

'''Tip:''' Click arrows on the column headings to sort by name or location.
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+ Event Organizations
|-
! Organization !! State !! City !! Country !! Supported [[RobotClasses|Classes]] !! Discussion / Social
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/AdelaideRobotCombat/permalink/2049861968618530/ Adelaide Robot Combat] || South Australia || Adelaide || AU || 150g ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/alburywodogarobotbattles/ Albury Wodogaro Robot Battles] || New South Wales || Albury || AU || 150g ||
|-
| [http://www.angryroosterrobotics.com/ Angry Rooster Robotics] || Alabama || Huntsville || USA ||1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://www.facebook.com/pg/angryroosterrobotics/events
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/people/Antweight-World-Series/61567008475192/ Antweight World Series] || England (or touring) || Various || UK (touring) ||150g ||
|-
| [http://azroboticcombat.com/ Arizona Robotic Combat] || Arizona || Phoenix || USA ||150g, 1lb 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://www.facebook.com/groups/ArizonaRoboticCombat/
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2172601139696740 Backwoods Combat Robots] || Tennessee || Chapel Hill || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.battlebots.com/ Battlebots] || Nevada || Las Vegas || USA || 250lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057054446012 Bay Area Robotic Combat] || California || Richmond || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/Bayside-Robotics-104627878106463/ Bayside Robotics] || Delaware ||Newark || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/Beetleweight/ BeetleBelt] || England || Burgess Hill || UK || 3lb ||
|-
| [https://botgeddon.com/ Bot'Geddon] || California || Rocklin || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [http://www.botbrawl.ca/ Bot Brawl] || Ontario || Mississauga || CA || 1lb, 3lb, 30lb-Sumo, 150-Sumo ||
|-
| [http://antlog.garya.org.uk/ Bot Fest] || England || Liverpool || UK || 150g ||
|-
| [https://bristolbotbuilders.com/events.html Bristol Bot Builders] || England || Bristol || UK || 150g, 3lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/Budget-Bot-Builders-112263420944455 Budget Bot Builders] || Colorado || Colorado Springs || USA || 150g ||
|-
| [https://bugglebots.com/ BuggleBots] || England || Bristol || UK || 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.carolinacombat.com/ Carolina Combat Robots] || North Carolina || Hickory || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.circpeoria.org/ Central Illinois Robotics Club] || Illinois || Peoria || USA || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/ColoradoCombatRobotics Colorado Combat Robotics] || Colorado || Denver || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/CombatRobotNZ Combat Robotics NZ] || Auckland || Grafton || NZ || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/437521800412767/ Combat Robots of Oklahoma] || Oklahoma || Tulsa || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://athena.ecs.csus.edu/~comprobo/Events.html Competitive Robotics at Sacramento State] || California || Sacramento || USA || 1lb ||
|-
| [http://www.dutchrobotgames.nl/ Dutch Robot Games] || Gelderland || Ulft || NL || 30lb ||
|-
| [https://mad-metal-machines.de/ German Roboteers Association] || Lower Saxony || Hannover || DE || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| '''[https://www.innovation-spark.org/ High Adrenaline Combat Robotics]''' || Texas || Houston || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, Lego || https://discord.gg/654dyZzjVE https://www.facebook.com/groups/hacrusa/
|-
| [https://ipswichroboticssportsgroup.wordpress.com Ipswich Robotics Sport Group] || Queensland || Brisbane || AU || 150g, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://makerspacect.com/makerbattle/ MakerspaceCT] || Connecticut || Hartford || USA || 3lb ||
|-
| '''[https://macrobot.org/ Maryland Area Combat Robotics Organization (MACRO)]''' || Maryland || Baltimore || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb Sportsman || https://discord.gg/SXwArmv
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/events/216270486988808/ Melbourne Combat Robotics] || Victoria || Melbourne || AU || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.mtras.com/ Middle Tennessee Robotics Art Society] || Tennessee || Nashville || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| '''[https://midwestrobotcombat.com/ Midwest Robot Combat Association (MRCA)]''' || Milwaukee || Wisconsin || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb || https://discord.com/invite/Cdcdg4dFnq?ref=robotcombatwiki.com
|-
| Minnesota Combat Robotics || Minnesota || Eagan || USA || 150g, 1lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/missourirobotfights/ Missouri Robot Fights] || Missouri || Joplin || USA || 1lb ||
|-
| [https://gonrl.org National Robotics League] || Various || Various || USA || 15lb ||
|-
| [https://www.nerc.us North East Robotics Club] || Pennsylvania || Harrisburg || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2211361815847314/ North Texas Bot Battles] || Texas || Dallas/Fort Worth || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.nhrl.io/ National Havoc Robot League] || Connecticut || Norwalk || USA || 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [http://www.ohiorobotclub.com/ Ohio Robotics Club] || Ohio || Sandusky || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 6lb ||
|-
| [https://www.osubattlebots.org/ Oregon State Combat Robotics] || Oregon || Corvallis || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/QueenslandRoboticsSportsClub Queensland Robotics Sports Club] || Queensland || - || AU || - ||
|-
| [https://events.robocore.net/ RoboCore] || Minas Gerais || Santa Rita do Sapucaí || BR || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 30lb, 60lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/RobodojoUK/ RoboDojo] || England || York || UK || 150g, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [http://www.robotbattles.com/ Robot Battles] || Georgia || Atlanta || USA || 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [https://discord.gg/zefrc3BA Robotics @UH (University of Houston)] || Texas || Houston || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.makemia.com/robot-riot Robot Riot] || Florida || West Palm Beach || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.rabidrva.com/ RABID - Richmond Area Bot Instigated Destruction] || Virginia || Richmond || USA || || https://discord.com/invite/H5wQnJXAVh
|-
| [http://robogames.net/ RoboGames] || California || Pleasanton (SF Bay Area) || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 60lb, 120lb, 250lb ||
|-
| [https://robotruckus.org/ Robot Ruckus] || Florida || Orlando || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 220lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [http://www.robowars.org/ Robowars Australia] || Queensland || Brisbane || AU || 30lb ||
|-
| [https://kilobots.com/ Saskatoon Combat Robotics Club] || Saskatchewan || Saskatoon || CA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/smashbotz Smashbotz] || California || Los Angeles || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/640098953444052 Southern California Attack Robotics] || California || Walnut || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 15lb ||
|-
| [https://texasrobotcombat.com/ Texas Robot Combat] || Texas || Dallas || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.utahcombatrobotics.com/ Utah Combat Robotics] || Utah || Salt Lake City || USA || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://vegascombatrobotics.com/ Vegas Combat Robotics] || Nevada || Las Vegas || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://westernalliedrobotics.com Western Allied Robotics] || Washington || Seattle || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://https://discord.gg/hzvM5zQURg Wisconsin Robot Combat] || Wisconsin || Oconomowoc || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|}

==Past Event Pages==
These events are no longer active.
* [https://botblast.webs.com/ Bot Blast: 1lb and 3lb in Bloomburg Pennsylvania]
* [https://tamurobomasters.com/ Texas Aimbots: 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb in Bryan-College Station, Texas] - adjunct program of Texas A&M Robomasters Robotics, combat series 2022-2024

Events

2025-10-05T00:08:48Z

Chklnk: Link livery

Rules

2025-10-05T00:00:49Z

Chklnk: Update local groups link; new SPARC judging

=Robot Combat Rules=
Robot combat has several organizations that develop rules of play. The rules cover both robot construction and match procedures. However, in the USA there is no national league or governing body defining local rules. The sport is still young, and each event can choose its own rules, experiment, and innovate.

Good rules ensure fair fights, impartial judging decisions, and most of all, uniform standards of safety.

==Standardized rules==
Here are some of the organizations which have published rules and guidelines for robot combat events. You can freely download and read any of these rules.

*'''[https://sparc.tools/ Standard Procedures for the Advancement of Robot Combat]''', publisher of numerous resources for arena construction, competitors, judges, and more. SPARC has the most commonly used reference guides for robot construction and match Procedures. Event organizers discuss SPARC rules changes regularly.
*'''[http://www.nerc.us/ Northeast Robotics Club]''', a prominent competitive organization - [http://www.nerc.us/rules.html NERC Rules]
*'''[https://midwestrobotcombat.com/ Midwest Robot Combat Association]''', an expanding network of USA Midwestern events - [https://midwestrobotcombat.com/rules/ MRCA Rules]
*'''[https://www.fightingrobots.co.uk/ Fighting Robot Association]''' is centered in the UK - most events in Europe use their [https://www.fightingrobots.co.uk/content/23-rules-and-safety_1 FRA Rules]
*'''[https://www.nhrl.io/ National Havoc Robot League]''' have their own [https://www.nhrl.io/rules NHRL Rules]
*'''[https://battlebots.com/ BattleBots]''' is a TV show with 250 pound fighting robots - [https://battlebots.com/rules/ BattleBots Rules] are reviewed yearly

(National Robotics League is not on this list because only students on authorized teams may participate.)

==Local rules==
When building your robot, decide which '''[[events]]''' you plan to compete in, learn which standard rules are in use, and check for exceptions or changes to the rules that may affect you. Generally events are '''[[Local Groups|locally run]]''', and each is different, with rules adapted to the local requirements and situation, including the event venue, number of available volunteers or workers, and arena type. Here are some examples of local variations:
* '''Arenas''' - For many bot builders, travel to multiple locations to compete isn't practical. Consequently, multi-city leagues are unusual, and unlike football, the arena of play is not standardized. Some arenas have metal floors, some wood; some will have pits or fences, while others do not; some arenas have thick, heavy polycarbonate windows while others can safely contain only bots with lower total weapon energy.
* '''Venues''' vary as well; for example, many if not most local clubs meet in event spaces where open flame isn't allowed, preventing the use of fire weapons. The use of power tools may be restricted to a safe area or even banished to the outdoors.
* When '''Volunteers''' are scarce or unavailable, the event may be streamlined in various ways, such as simplified judging (see below).
* '''Match time''' is most typically 3 minutes; however, if there are many competitors or other event time restrictions, two-minute matches are common.

=Judging Systems=
There are several different methods to judge a robot combat match.

Generally, if a robot is disabled, thrown out of bounds, or unable to travel normally on the arena floor, that the robot has lost the match.

If neither bot is disabled or disqualified, judges must render a decision. This is usually done with a point system weighted to bring out the best in bot designers and drivers, but designed never to result in a tie. For example, judges under newer SPARC rules give points for Damage (4 points) and Engagement (5 points), with each shared between two opponents.

Suppose both robots appear to have suffered equal damage; each would receive 2 points using the SPARC rules. The judges must then weigh which driver better controlled the flow of the match to break the tie.

==Edge cases==
Event organizers may make exceptions for specific issues caused by the arena itself. For example, if bots gets jammed against the walls due to a design flaw or normal arena wear and tear, judges may direct opponents to stop the match and free a bot that gets stuck instead of counting that bot out of play. The bot's driver is expected to avoid that situation in the future.

A "one free unstick" rule may also apply to bots that have become entangled or locked together.

==Damage, Control, and Aggression variant==
Older SPARC rules score control of the match situation separately from aggressive behavior toward the other bot, with Aggression, the willingness to pursue and engage the other bot, being the tie-breaking factor.

==Judge's Call variant==
Many events have done away with the detailed scoring system and simply have each judge indicate which bot they felt won the overall match. While this may lead to more consistent results, some builders get frustrated without scores to indicate why they won or lost the match. Different events also have different allowances for judges to talk with each other when making decisions. Some events want each judge to come to their own conclusions independently, while others think it better to have judges compare notes and discuss the results.

==Outcome variant==
Matches can also be judged by a simplified system based solely by the state of the robots at the end. For example:

*2 points awarded to the survivor when the other bot is knocked out, disabled, or falls into a pit ('''Win''')
*2 points awarded if the opponent is disqualified or forfeits the match before it starts ('''Bye''')
*1 point awarded to each bot remaining after time expires and the match is over ('''Tie''')
*0 points for a bot that is knocked out, disabled, or falls into a pit ('''Loss''')
*0 points awarded to a bot that is not ready for combat or is disqualified ('''Forfeit''')

This system is fine for informal matches and usually doesn't require impartial judgment. However, it's important that the term "disabled" is clearly defined and understood by all participants.

Since all types of bots must be able to disable their opponent, it's best if this variant is played in an arena with pits or other hazards that will potentially allow wedge bots and partially damaged bots a chance to win.

Local Groups

2025-10-04T23:42:54Z

Chklnk: Add RABID

=Local Groups, Clubs, and Organizations=
Here is a partial list of robot combat clubs, organizations groups or individuals putting on events worldwide. Most hold multiple events each year. In all cases they should be thanked! If you are '''[[GettingStarted|planning on competing]]''', check with each event's organizer for the specific '''[[rules]]''' they will use.

'''Tip:''' Click arrows on the column headings to sort by name or location.
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+ Event Organizations
|-
! Organization !! State !! City !! Country !! Supported [[RobotClasses|Classes]] !! Discussion / Social
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/AdelaideRobotCombat/permalink/2049861968618530/ Adelaide Robot Combat] || South Australia || Adelaide || AU || 150g ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/alburywodogarobotbattles/ Albury Wodogaro Robot Battles] || New South Wales || Albury || AU || 150g ||
|-
| [http://www.angryroosterrobotics.com/ Angry Rooster Robotics] || Alabama || Huntsville || USA ||1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://www.facebook.com/pg/angryroosterrobotics/events
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/people/Antweight-World-Series/61567008475192/ Antweight World Series] || England (or touring) || Various || UK (touring) ||150g ||
|-
| [http://azroboticcombat.com/ Arizona Robotic Combat] || Arizona || Phoenix || USA ||150g, 1lb 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://www.facebook.com/groups/ArizonaRoboticCombat/
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2172601139696740 Backwoods Combat Robots] || Tennessee || Chapel Hill || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.battlebots.com/ Battlebots] || Nevada || Las Vegas || USA || 250lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057054446012 Bay Area Robotic Combat] || California || Richmond || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/Bayside-Robotics-104627878106463/ Bayside Robotics] || Delaware ||Newark || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/Beetleweight/ BeetleBelt] || England || Burgess Hill || UK || 3lb ||
|-
| [https://botgeddon.com/ Bot'Geddon] || California || Rocklin || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [http://www.botbrawl.ca/ Bot Brawl] || Ontario || Mississauga || CA || 1lb, 3lb, 30lb-Sumo, 150-Sumo ||
|-
| [http://antlog.garya.org.uk/ Bot Fest] || England || Liverpool || UK || 150g ||
|-
| [https://bristolbotbuilders.com/events.html Bristol Bot Builders] || England || Bristol || UK || 150g, 3lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/Budget-Bot-Builders-112263420944455 Budget Bot Builders] || Colorado || Colorado Springs || USA || 150g ||
|-
| [https://bugglebots.com/ BuggleBots] || England || Bristol || UK || 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.carolinacombat.com/ Carolina Combat Robots] || North Carolina || Hickory || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.circpeoria.org/ Central Illinois Robotics Club] || Illinois || Peoria || USA || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/ColoradoCombatRobotics Colorado Combat Robotics] || Colorado || Denver || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/CombatRobotNZ Combat Robotics NZ] || Auckland || Grafton || NZ || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/437521800412767/ Combat Robots of Oklahoma] || Oklahoma || Tulsa || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://athena.ecs.csus.edu/~comprobo/Events.html Competitive Robotics at Sacramento State] || California || Sacramento || USA || 1lb ||
|-
| [http://www.dutchrobotgames.nl/ Dutch Robot Games] || Gelderland || Ulft || NL || 30lb ||
|-
| [https://mad-metal-machines.de/ German Roboteers Association] || Lower Saxony || Hannover || DE || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| '''[https://www.innovation-spark.org/ High Adrenaline Combat Robotics]''' || Texas || Houston || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, Lego || https://discord.gg/654dyZzjVE https://www.facebook.com/groups/hacrusa/
|-
| [https://ipswichroboticssportsgroup.wordpress.com Ipswich Robotics Sport Group] || Queensland || Brisbane || AU || 150g, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://makerspacect.com/makerbattle/ MakerspaceCT] || Connecticut || Hartford || USA || 3lb ||
|-
| [http://macrobot.us/ Macrobot.us] || Maryland || Baltimore || USA || 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/events/216270486988808/ Melbourne Combat Robotics] || Victoria || Melbourne || AU || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.mtras.com/ Middle Tennessee Robotics Art Society] || Tennessee || Nashville || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://midwestrobotcombat.com/ Midwest Robot Combat Association (MRCA)] || Milwaukee || Wisconsin || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| Minnesota Combat Robotics || Minnesota || Eagan || USA || 150g, 1lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/missourirobotfights/ Missouri Robot Fights] || Missouri || Joplin || USA || 1lb ||
|-
| [https://gonrl.org National Robotics League] || Various || Various || USA || 15lb ||
|-
| [https://www.nerc.us North East Robotics Club] || Pennsylvania || Harrisburg || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2211361815847314/ North Texas Bot Battles] || Texas || Dallas/Fort Worth || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.nhrl.io/ National Havoc Robot League] || Connecticut || Norwalk || USA || 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [http://www.ohiorobotclub.com/ Ohio Robotics Club] || Ohio || Sandusky || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 6lb ||
|-
| [https://www.osubattlebots.org/ Oregon State Combat Robotics] || Oregon || Corvallis || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/QueenslandRoboticsSportsClub Queensland Robotics Sports Club] || Queensland || - || AU || - ||
|-
| [https://events.robocore.net/ RoboCore] || Minas Gerais || Santa Rita do Sapucaí || BR || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 30lb, 60lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/RobodojoUK/ RoboDojo] || England || York || UK || 150g, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [http://www.robotbattles.com/ Robot Battles] || Georgia || Atlanta || USA || 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [https://discord.gg/zefrc3BA Robotics @UH (University of Houston)] || Texas || Houston || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.makemia.com/robot-riot Robot Riot] || Florida || West Palm Beach || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.rabidrva.com/ RABID - Richmond Area Bot Instigated Destruction] || Virginia || Richmond || USA || || https://discord.com/invite/H5wQnJXAVh
|-
| [http://robogames.net/ RoboGames] || California || Pleasanton (SF Bay Area) || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 60lb, 120lb, 250lb ||
|-
| [https://robotruckus.org/ Robot Ruckus] || Florida || Orlando || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 220lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [http://www.robowars.org/ Robowars Australia] || Queensland || Brisbane || AU || 30lb ||
|-
| [https://kilobots.com/ Saskatoon Combat Robotics Club] || Saskatchewan || Saskatoon || CA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/smashbotz Smashbotz] || California || Los Angeles || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/640098953444052 Southern California Attack Robotics] || California || Walnut || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 15lb ||
|-
| [https://texasrobotcombat.com/ Texas Robot Combat] || Texas || Dallas || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.utahcombatrobotics.com/ Utah Combat Robotics] || Utah || Salt Lake City || USA || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://vegascombatrobotics.com/ Vegas Combat Robotics] || Nevada || Las Vegas || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://westernalliedrobotics.com Western Allied Robotics] || Washington || Seattle || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://https://discord.gg/hzvM5zQURg Wisconsin Robot Combat] || Wisconsin || Oconomowoc || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|}

==Past Event Pages==
These events are no longer active.
* [https://botblast.webs.com/ Bot Blast: 1lb and 3lb in Bloomburg Pennsylvania]
* [https://tamurobomasters.com/ Texas Aimbots: 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb in Bryan-College Station, Texas] - adjunct program of Texas A&M Robomasters Robotics, combat series 2022-2024

Events

2025-10-04T23:37:41Z

Chklnk: Move event org list to new page

Local Groups

2025-10-04T23:31:00Z

Chklnk: /* Local Groups, Clubs, and Organizations */ New Social column and updates

=Local Groups, Clubs, and Organizations=
Here is a partial list of robot combat clubs, organizations groups or individuals putting on events worldwide. Most hold multiple events each year. In all cases they should be thanked! If you are '''[[GettingStarted|planning on competing]]''', check with each event's organizer for the specific '''[[rules]]''' they will use.

'''Tip:''' Click arrows on the column headings to sort by name or location.
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+ Event Organizations
|-
! Organization !! State !! City !! Country !! Supported [[RobotClasses|Classes]] !! Discussion / Social
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/AdelaideRobotCombat/permalink/2049861968618530/ Adelaide Robot Combat] || South Australia || Adelaide || AU || 150g ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/alburywodogarobotbattles/ Albury Wodogaro Robot Battles] || New South Wales || Albury || AU || 150g ||
|-
| [http://www.angryroosterrobotics.com/ Angry Rooster Robotics] || Alabama || Huntsville || USA ||1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://www.facebook.com/pg/angryroosterrobotics/events
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/people/Antweight-World-Series/61567008475192/ Antweight World Series] || England (or touring) || Various || UK (touring) ||150g ||
|-
| [http://azroboticcombat.com/ Arizona Robotic Combat] || Arizona || Phoenix || USA ||150g, 1lb 1lb-Plastic, 3lb || https://www.facebook.com/groups/ArizonaRoboticCombat/
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2172601139696740 Backwoods Combat Robots] || Tennessee || Chapel Hill || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.battlebots.com/ Battlebots] || Nevada || Las Vegas || USA || 250lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057054446012 Bay Area Robotic Combat] || California || Richmond || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/Bayside-Robotics-104627878106463/ Bayside Robotics] || Delaware ||Newark || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/Beetleweight/ BeetleBelt] || England || Burgess Hill || UK || 3lb ||
|-
| [https://botgeddon.com/ Bot'Geddon] || California || Rocklin || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [http://www.botbrawl.ca/ Bot Brawl] || Ontario || Mississauga || CA || 1lb, 3lb, 30lb-Sumo, 150-Sumo ||
|-
| [http://antlog.garya.org.uk/ Bot Fest] || England || Liverpool || UK || 150g ||
|-
| [https://bristolbotbuilders.com/events.html Bristol Bot Builders] || England || Bristol || UK || 150g, 3lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/Budget-Bot-Builders-112263420944455 Budget Bot Builders] || Colorado || Colorado Springs || USA || 150g ||
|-
| [https://bugglebots.com/ BuggleBots] || England || Bristol || UK || 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.carolinacombat.com/ Carolina Combat Robots] || North Carolina || Hickory || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.circpeoria.org/ Central Illinois Robotics Club] || Illinois || Peoria || USA || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/ColoradoCombatRobotics Colorado Combat Robotics] || Colorado || Denver || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/CombatRobotNZ Combat Robotics NZ] || Auckland || Grafton || NZ || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/437521800412767/ Combat Robots of Oklahoma] || Oklahoma || Tulsa || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://athena.ecs.csus.edu/~comprobo/Events.html Competitive Robotics at Sacramento State] || California || Sacramento || USA || 1lb ||
|-
| [http://www.dutchrobotgames.nl/ Dutch Robot Games] || Gelderland || Ulft || NL || 30lb ||
|-
| [https://mad-metal-machines.de/ German Roboteers Association] || Lower Saxony || Hannover || DE || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| '''[https://www.innovation-spark.org/ High Adrenaline Combat Robotics]''' || Texas || Houston || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, Lego || https://discord.gg/654dyZzjVE https://www.facebook.com/groups/hacrusa/
|-
| [https://ipswichroboticssportsgroup.wordpress.com Ipswich Robotics Sport Group] || Queensland || Brisbane || AU || 150g, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://makerspacect.com/makerbattle/ MakerspaceCT] || Connecticut || Hartford || USA || 3lb ||
|-
| [http://macrobot.us/ Macrobot.us] || Maryland || Baltimore || USA || 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/events/216270486988808/ Melbourne Combat Robotics] || Victoria || Melbourne || AU || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://www.mtras.com/ Middle Tennessee Robotics Art Society] || Tennessee || Nashville || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://midwestrobotcombat.com/ Midwest Robot Combat Association (MRCA)] || Milwaukee || Wisconsin || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| Minnesota Combat Robotics || Minnesota || Eagan || USA || 150g, 1lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/missourirobotfights/ Missouri Robot Fights] || Missouri || Joplin || USA || 1lb ||
|-
| [https://gonrl.org National Robotics League] || Various || Various || USA || 15lb ||
|-
| [https://www.nerc.us North East Robotics Club] || Pennsylvania || Harrisburg || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2211361815847314/ North Texas Bot Battles] || Texas || Dallas/Fort Worth || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.nhrl.io/ National Havoc Robot League] || Connecticut || Norwalk || USA || 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [http://www.ohiorobotclub.com/ Ohio Robotics Club] || Ohio || Sandusky || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 6lb ||
|-
| [https://www.osubattlebots.org/ Oregon State Combat Robotics] || Oregon || Corvallis || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/QueenslandRoboticsSportsClub Queensland Robotics Sports Club] || Queensland || - || AU || - ||
|-
| [https://events.robocore.net/ RoboCore] || Minas Gerais || Santa Rita do Sapucaí || BR || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 30lb, 60lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/RobodojoUK/ RoboDojo] || England || York || UK || 150g, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [http://www.robotbattles.com/ Robot Battles] || Georgia || Atlanta || USA || 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb ||
|-
| [https://discord.gg/zefrc3BA Robotics @UH (University of Houston)] || Texas || Houston || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.makemia.com/robot-riot Robot Riot] || Florida || West Palm Beach || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://robogames.net/ RoboGames] || California || Pleasanton (SF Bay Area) || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 60lb, 120lb, 250lb ||
|-
| [https://robotruckus.org/ Robot Ruckus] || Florida || Orlando || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 220lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [http://www.robowars.org/ Robowars Australia] || Queensland || Brisbane || AU || 30lb ||
|-
| [https://kilobots.com/ Saskatoon Combat Robotics Club] || Saskatchewan || Saskatoon || CA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/smashbotz Smashbotz] || California || Los Angeles || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb ||
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/640098953444052 Southern California Attack Robotics] || California || Walnut || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 15lb ||
|-
| [https://texasrobotcombat.com/ Texas Robot Combat] || Texas || Dallas || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://www.utahcombatrobotics.com/ Utah Combat Robotics] || Utah || Salt Lake City || USA || 1lb, 3lb ||
|-
| [http://vegascombatrobotics.com/ Vegas Combat Robotics] || Nevada || Las Vegas || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|-
| [https://westernalliedrobotics.com Western Allied Robotics] || Washington || Seattle || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb-Sportsman ||
|-
| [https://https://discord.gg/hzvM5zQURg Wisconsin Robot Combat] || Wisconsin || Oconomowoc || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb ||
|}

==Past Event Pages==
These events are no longer active.
* [https://botblast.webs.com/ Bot Blast: 1lb and 3lb in Bloomburg Pennsylvania]
* [https://tamurobomasters.com/ Texas Aimbots: 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb in Bryan-College Station, Texas] - adjunct program of Texas A&M Robomasters Robotics, combat series 2022-2024

Local Groups

2025-10-04T23:13:04Z

Chklnk: Moving event organizations to new page (dump only)

=Local Groups, Clubs, and Organizations=
Here is a partial list of robot combat clubs, organizations groups or individuals putting on events worldwide. Most hold multiple events each year. In all cases they should be thanked! If you are '''[[GettingStarted|planning on competing]]''', check with each event's organizer for the specific '''[[rules]]''' they will use.

'''Tip:''' Click arrows on the column headings to sort by name or location.
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+ Event Organizations
|-
! Organization !! State !! City !! Country !! Supported [[RobotClasses|Classes]]
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/AdelaideRobotCombat/permalink/2049861968618530/ Adelaide Robot Combat] || South Australia || Adelaide || AU || 150g
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/alburywodogarobotbattles/ Albury Wodogaro Robot Battles] || New South Wales || Albury || AU || 150g
|-
| [http://www.angryroosterrobotics.com/ Angry Rooster Robotics] || Alabama || Huntsville || USA ||1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/people/Antweight-World-Series/61567008475192/ Antweight World Series] || England (or touring) || Various || UK (touring) ||150g
|-
| [http://azroboticcombat.com/ Arizona Robotic Combat] || Arizona || Phoenix || USA ||150g, 1lb 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2172601139696740 Backwoods Combat Robots] || Tennessee || Chapel Hill || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.battlebots.com/ Battlebots] || California ||Los Angeles || USA || 250lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057054446012 Bay Area Robotic Combat] || California || Richmond || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/Bayside-Robotics-104627878106463/ Bayside Robotics] || Delaware ||Newark || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/Beetleweight/ BeetleBelt] || England || Burgess Hill || UK || 3lb
|-
| [https://botgeddon.com/ Bot'Geddon] || California || Rocklin || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic
|-
| [http://www.botbrawl.ca/ Bot Brawl] || Ontario || Mississauga || CA || 1lb, 3lb, 30lb-Sumo, 150-Sumo
|-
| [http://antlog.garya.org.uk/ Bot Fest] || England || Liverpool || UK || 150g
|-
| [https://bristolbotbuilders.com/events.html Bristol Bot Builders] || England || Bristol || UK || 150g, 3lb, 30lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/Budget-Bot-Builders-112263420944455 Budget Bot Builders] || Colorado || Colorado Springs || USA || 150g
|-
| [https://bugglebots.com/ BuggleBots] || England || Bristol || UK || 3lb
|-
| [http://www.carolinacombat.com/ Carolina Combat Robots] || North Carolina || Hickory || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|-
| [http://www.circpeoria.org/ Central Illinois Robotics Club] || Illinois || Peoria || USA || 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/ColoradoCombatRobotics Colorado Combat Robotics] || Colorado || Denver || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 30lb-Sportsman
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/CombatRobotNZ Combat Robotics NZ] || Auckland || Grafton || NZ || 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/437521800412767/ Combat Robots of Oklahoma] || Oklahoma || Tulsa || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [https://athena.ecs.csus.edu/~comprobo/Events.html Competitive Robotics at Sacramento State] || California || Sacramento || USA || 1lb
|-
| [http://www.dutchrobotgames.nl/ Dutch Robot Games] || Gelderland || Ulft || NL || 30lb
|-
| [https://mad-metal-machines.de/ German Roboteers Association] || Lower Saxony || Hannover || DE || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/hacrusa/ High Adrenaline Combat Robotics] || Texas || Houston || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, Lego
|-
| [https://ipswichroboticssportsgroup.wordpress.com Ipswich Robotics Sport Group] || Queensland || Brisbane || AU || 150g, 3lb
|-
| [https://makerspacect.com/makerbattle/ MakerspaceCT] || Connecticut || Hartford || USA || 3lb
|-
| [http://macrobot.us/ Macrobot.us] || Maryland || Baltimore || USA || 1lb-Plastic
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/events/216270486988808/ Melbourne Combat Robotics] || Victoria || Melbourne || AU || 150g, 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [http://www.mtras.com/ Middle Tennessee Robotics Art Society] || Tennessee || Nashville || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [https://midwestrobotcombat.com/ Midwest Robot Combat Association (MRCA)] || Milwaukee || Wisconsin || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb
|-
| Minnesota Combat Robotics || Minnesota || Eagan || USA || 150g, 1lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/missourirobotfights/ Missouri Robot Fights] || Missouri || Joplin || USA || 1lb
|-
| [https://gonrl.org National Robotics League] || Various || Various || USA || 15lb
|-
| [https://www.nerc.us North East Robotics Club] || Pennsylvania || Harrisburg || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 30lb-Sportsman
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2211361815847314/ North Texas Bot Battles] || Texas || Dallas/Fort Worth || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.nhrl.io/ National Havoc Robot League] || Connecticut || Norwalk || USA || 3lb, 12lb, 30lb
|-
| [http://www.ohiorobotclub.com/ Ohio Robotics Club] || Ohio || Sandusky || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 6lb
|-
| [https://www.osubattlebots.org/ Oregon State Combat Robotics] || Oregon || Corvallis || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/QueenslandRoboticsSportsClub Queensland Robotics Sports Club] || Queensland || - || AU || -
|-
| [https://events.robocore.net/ RoboCore] || Minas Gerais || Santa Rita do Sapucaí || BR || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 30lb, 60lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/RobodojoUK/ RoboDojo] || England || York || UK || 150g, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb
|-
| [http://www.robotbattles.com/ Robot Battles] || Georgia || Atlanta || USA || 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb
|-
| [https://discord.gg/zefrc3BA Robotics @UH (University of Houston)] || Texas || Houston || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.makemia.com/robot-riot Robot Riot] || Florida || West Palm Beach || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [http://robogames.net/ RoboGames] || California || Pleasanton (SF Bay Area) || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 60lb, 120lb, 250lb
|-
| [https://robotruckus.org/ Robot Ruckus] || Florida || Orlando || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 220lb-Sportsman
|-
| [http://www.robowars.org/ Robowars Australia] || Queensland || Brisbane || AU || 30lb
|-
| [https://kilobots.com/ Saskatoon Combat Robotics Club] || Saskatchewan || Saskatoon || CA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/smashbotz Smashbotz] || California || Los Angeles || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/640098953444052 Southern California Attack Robotics] || California || Walnut || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 15lb
|-
| [https://texasrobotcombat.com/ Texas Robot Combat] || Texas || Dallas || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.utahcombatrobotics.com/ Utah Combat Robotics] || Utah || Salt Lake City || USA || 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [http://vegascombatrobotics.com/ Vegas Combat Robotics] || Nevada || Las Vegas || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|-
| [https://westernalliedrobotics.com Western Allied Robotics] || Washington || Seattle || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb-Sportsman
|-
| [https://https://discord.gg/hzvM5zQURg Wisconsin Robot Combat] || Wisconsin || Oconomowoc || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|}

==Past Event Pages==
These events are no longer active.
* [https://botblast.webs.com/ Bot Blast: 1lb and 3lb in Bloomburg Pennsylvania]
* [https://tamurobomasters.com/ Texas Aimbots: 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb in Bryan-College Station, Texas] - adjunct program of Texas A&M Robomasters Robotics, combat series 2022-2024

Main Page

2025-10-04T23:05:07Z

Chklnk: /* Categories */ Break out local groups list

[[File:Robogames_Arena.jpg|thumb|Robogames Arena]]

== Robot Combat ==
 Welcome to the Robot Combat Wiki 
The goal of this Wiki is to have a single location that Robot Combat enthusiasts can come to find the information they are looking for. Like all Wikis, some content will be stored here while much of it will be links out to sources. Please be patient, it will take a while for the Wiki to build content. If there is something you'd like to know and you don't see a page for it, go ahead and create one. Editing some pages will be limited to known contributors but if you feel something should be changed or updated let us know or show that you can be a trusted contributor. 

Stay Safe! 
Some areas (like building flame throwers) are best left up to experts and pages dedicated to these areas will provide a general overview but we won't give step-by-step instructions on how to make things. We don't want people accidentally hurting themselves.

== Categories ==
* [[GettingStarted|Getting Started]] in combat robotics
* [[Local Groups]], Clubs and Organizations to connect with in your country or area
* [[Rules]]
* [[Events]]
* [[RobotClasses|Robot Classes]]
* [[Robot_Combat_League|Robot Combat League]]
* [[RobotCommunity|Communities]]
* [[Robots|Teams and Robots]]
* [[Kits]]
* [[3D Printing]]
* [[Weapons]]
* [[Suppliers]]
* [[OnlineTools|Online Tools]]
* [[Test Boxes]]

== Component Parts ==
* [[Batteries]]
* [[Battery eliminator circuit (BEC)]]
* [[Connectors]]
* [[ESCs|Electronic Speed Controllers]]
* [[Magnets]]
* [[Motors]]
* [[Radios]]
* [[Servos]]
* [[Switches]]
* [[Wheels]]
 

== Getting started with MediaWiki ==
Consult the [https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Help:Contents User's Guide] for information on using the wiki software.

* [https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Manual:Configuration_settings Configuration settings list]
* [https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Manual:FAQ MediaWiki FAQ]
* [https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/mediawiki-announce MediaWiki release mailing list]
* [https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Localisation#Translation_resources Localise MediaWiki for your language]
* [https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Manual:Combating_spam Learn how to combat spam on your wiki]

OnlineTools

2025-07-24T03:46:55Z

Chklnk: Adding 2025 Level 5 suite

A number of tools have been created for robot combat builders to be able to plan for and build effective bot weapons and drivetrains. Here are some community favorites:

==Design Suite==
Full combat robot design suite includes Drivetrains, Weapons, Center Distance, LiPo watt-hour equivalency at different voltage, even USA national tournament strategy. Built-in stats for common high-performance insectweight motors.

'''[https://ember.level5robotics.com/ ember Robot Calculator Suite]''' - Level 5 Robotics.

==Mechanical==
Handy for drivetrains.

'''[https://www.bbman.com/belt-length-calculator/ Belt Length Calculator]''' - B&B Manufacturing

'''[http://www.jgermita.me/crresources Belt Center Distance Calculator]''' - Jeremy Germita

'''[http://www.jgermita.me/crresources Chain Center Distance Calculator]''' - Jeremy Germita

'''[https://www.kjmagnetics.com/calculator.asp Magnet Pull Force Calculator]''' - Calculate pull force based on distance, size, and grade. By K&J Magnetics.

==Motors==

'''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/motor_math.html Electric Motor Math]''' - Understanding the specs for PMDC (brushed) motors. By Team RoboForge, presented by Run Amok.

Also see '''[http://runamok.tech/AskAaron/constants.html Deriving Motor Constants]''' for surplus PMDC motors.

'''[http://www.jgermita.me/crresources Motor Speed and Pushing Power]''' - Choose brushed or brushless motors. By Jeremy Germita

'''[https://esc-configurator.com/ ESC Configurator]''' for programming (reflashing) ESCs online (Chrome/Chromium-type browser expected).

'''[https://github.com/frank26080115/EdgeTX-Scripts-and-FW-Collection/tree/main/Using-CRSF-and-ELRS-in-Combat-Robotics Using CRSF and ELRS in Combat Robotics]''' - get started with CRSF and update your ESCs from pulses to packets.

==Weapons==

Use these to find out not only how hard a spinning weapon will hit, but also whether it is compliant with maximum energy rules for the events you compete in.

'''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/spincalc.html Spinner Weapon Kinetic Energy Calculator]''' - SpinCalc by Run Amok. Read the help file! Mass, MOI, spin-up estimation, etc.

'''[http://www.jgermita.me/crresources Tip Speed Calculator]''' - Jeremy Germita

'''[https://bristolbotbuilders.com/tools/tipspeed/ Tip Speed and KE (Kinetic Energy) Calculator]''' - Bristol Bot Builders

==Control==

'''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/mixfix4.html Mixer Fixer]''' for correcting problems with channel mixing on your transmitter. By Run Amok.

==for Event Organizers==

Here are places to post '''[[Events]]'''.

'''[https://ember.level5robotics.com/tournament Ember Tournament Calculator]''' by Level 5 - Estimates run time and fight count for a double-elimination bracket; shows [[Robot Combat League]] point schedule, including estimates for events already posted on '''[https://www.robotcombatevents.com RobotCombatEvents]''' website.

'''[https://challonge.com/ Challonge.com]''' - Well established web-based tool for competitive events and tournament brackets. Integrated ticketing and payment via Stripe. Numerous '''[https://challonge.com/features/tournaments features]''', free version heavily ad supported. RobotCombatEvents.com has Challonge integration to feed event results to USA national rankings.

'''[https://truefinals.com/ TrueFinals.com]''' - New site in beta for tournament brackets. Stats and dashboards, competitor list with next opponent listed, integrated check-in and call up, video overlays for match recording/streaming, all also web-based. Well-documented API and small robot combat community creating deep integration.

'''[https://www.rampagebots.co.uk/ Rampage]''' is a tournament bracket/management site for UK matches, featuring Bugglebots and similar match formats, streaming features and API support.

'''[https://bigtimer.net/ BigTimer.net]''' - Large-display, ad supported, touch-enabled timer.

Kits

2025-06-08T07:26:41Z

Chklnk: /* 1lb Plastic Ant Kits */ Malice kit -> Malice designs only

==Robot Combat Kits==
Many people don't have the fabrication or design experience to make a robot on their own, so starting out with a pre-designed kit is a great way to get into the sport. Check out your local events to see what weight-classes are supported. Make sure you know what is included in your kit; radios, batteries, or battery chargers are often optional items.

[[File:Viper_Kit.png|thumb|FingerTech Viper Antweight with Flipper option]]
==150g Kits==
The '''[https://shop.bristolbotbuilders.com/product/antkit/ Bristol Bot Builders]''' kit has the parts you'll need to get started but you'll need to make your own chassis. 
'''[https://nutsandbots.co.uk/product-category/robots/ Nuts and Bots 150g kits]''' come in three flavors, a wedge, a flipper and a grabber. These kits are underweight giving you room to add armor or to customize them. 
'''[https://turnabot.com/ Turnabot]''' has several 3D printed non-destructive robots with lifters and grabbers. The kits come as parts that you can put together yourself, or fully assembled at extra cost. '''[https://turnabot.com/?product=slipper Slipper]''', a Lifter. '''[https://turnabot.com/?product=squeezy Squeezy]''', a Horizontal Grabber. '''[https://turnabot.com/?product=santis Santis]''' and '''[https://turnabot.com/?product=slammer Slammer]''' are Lifter/grabber bots with carry and suplex attacks. 

==1lb Kits==
The '''[https://www.combatrobotkits.com/product-page/antweight-horizontal-spinner-combat-robot-kit-l-battle-bot-kit Antweight Horizontal Spinner Kit by Combat Robot Kits]''' is a simple Tombstone-style kit. A good option for builders looking to upgrade to an active weapon robot at a reasonable price. 
The '''[https://www.combatrobotkits.com/product-page/antweight-combat-robot-starter-kit-l-build-your-own-battle-robot-kit Antweight Starter Kit by Combat Robot Kits]''' has all the working parts for an antweight combat robot; build your own chassis to go with this affordable partial kit. 
The '''[https://radrobotkits.com/rad-robot-store/p/baby-nautiloid-kit Baby Nautiloid]''' is a 2 wheel drive vertical spinner kit. 
The '''[https://www.betzbotz.com/shop/p/betz-botz-ne26-1lb-antweight-combat-robot-kit Betz Botz NE2.7]''' is durable wedge robot. 
The '''[https://www.fingertechrobotics.com/proddetail.php?prod=ft-viper-v2 FingerTech Viper]''' is a popular starting place. Operate as a wedge, or use the '''[https://www.fingertechrobotics.com/proddetail.php?prod=ft-viper-lifter-addon lifter]''', '''[https://www.fingertechrobotics.com/proddetail.php?prod=ft-viper-v-spinner-addon vertical spinner]''', or '''[https://www.fingertechrobotics.com/proddetail.php?prod=ft-viper-h-spinner-addon horizontal spinner]''' add-ons which make it a great expandable option for new builders. 
The '''[https://www.botkits.com/products/copy-of-candy-wasp Candy Wasp]''' antweight kit from '''[https://botkits.com BotKits.com]''' isn't as flexible as the viper kit but it is super durable and more likely to survive a competition. 
The '''[https://www.battlerobotkit.com/product-page/battle-robot-kit-hellraiser Hellraiser]''' is a well built drum kit but is for more intermediate builders. 
The '''[https://www.battlerobotkit.com/product-page/battle-robot-kit-lobotomy Lobotomy]''' kit has an effective undercutter but is for intermediate builders. 
The '''[https://www.etsy.com/listing/994716670/antweight-combat-robot-starter-kit?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=battle+bot+kit&ref=sr_gallery-1-1&frs=1&referrer_page_guid=f791a41bbfd.d4724153f9e2cc9c71e2.00&organic_search_click=1 Phantom Antweight Starter Kit]''' antweight kit is an affordable choice. 
The '''[https://www.etsy.com/listing/1620913259/combat-robot-kit-l-antweight-battle?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=battle+bot+kit&ref=sr_gallery-1-3&frs=1&referrer_page_guid=f791a41bbfd.d4724153f9e2cc9c71e2.00&organic_search_click=1 Phantom Horizontal Spinner Kit]''' Proven and user friendly antweight horizontal spinner kit. 
The '''[https://kitbots.com/shop/ols/products/saifu-antweight-robot-chassis-and-drum Saifu]''' drum bot kit is for more advanced builders and has won many events. This is a great choice for builders who want a kit robot with a powerful weapon. 
The '''[https://www.battlerobotkit.com/product-page/battle-robot-kit-taserface Taserface]''' kit has a powerful vertical disk and is a good choice for intermediate builders who want a weapon bot. 
The '''[https://www.etsy.com/listing/1153065612/4wd-antweight-combat-robot Synthwave]''' kit is a 4WD dual disk vertical spinner with a lot of style designed for intermediate kit builders. 

==1lb Plastic Ant Kits==
These are designed for '''[[RobotClasses#Construction_Restricted_Classes|Plastic Ant class]]''' competitions. Using a 3D printer, you can print replacement parts using the files provided.

The '''Palm Beach [https://palmbeachbots.com/products/plastic-ant-vertical-drum-kit-dead-shaft-delight Dead Shaft Delight]''' kit is an all plastic drum spinner. 
Also available is '''[https://palmbeachbots.com/products/plastic-ant-horizontal-undercutter-kit-plastic-poison Plastic Poison]''', a horizontal undercutter spinner bot. 
The '''Palm Beach [https://palmbeachbots.com/products/plastic-ant-lifter-kit-super-scooper Super Scooper]''' kit lets you build a lifter. 
Try '''Team Malice [https://teammalice.com/index.php/scar-kit-and-spares/scar-plastic-antweight-electronics-kit/ Plastic Antweight Designs]''' for additional DIY designs. Join the chat community to learn more about the variety of printable bot options being developed. 

==3lb Kits==
[[File:D2_Kit.jpg|thumb|D2 Beetle from BotKits]]
[[File:Jolt v2.1.png|thumb|Jolt! v2.1 Kit from Absolute Chaos Robotics]]
[[File:SSP Promo Pic.jpg|thumb|SSP Beetleweight Lifter Kit as seen at NHRL]]
The [https://justcuzrobotics.com/shop/p/ssp-robot-kit SSP Lifter Kit] is a fantastic option for beginners as it has a lifter rather than a dangerous spinner, and at just 2.25 pounds for a base kit, it's easy to upgrade. The CAD files are available for free to make upgrades or print your own spares. It has a durable machined UHMW chassis and AR500 fork and wedge options. 
The '''[https://itgresa.com/product/beetleweight-chassis-kit-black-frost/ Black Frost]''' chassis kit is a great way to start off with a beetleweight robot. 
The '''[https://www.botkits.com/collections/combat-robot-kits/products/d2-combat-robot D2]''' kit features a durable titanium wedge and CNC milled aluminum frame, and has won many events. Some builders don't like this kit because it is so competitive but it takes hours of practice to learn how to drive it well. 
The '''[https://www.botkits.com/collections/combat-robot-kits/products/mw1-combat-robot-chassis-kit MW1]''' kit is basically half a D2 kit, having only drive wheels and a billet aluminum frame, and is intended for advanced builders who want to add their own weapons and who have the facilities to mill the frame to their requirements. 
The '''[https://kitbots.com/shop/ols/products/weta-x-beetleweight Weta]''' drum bot kit is a classic design with protected wheels for more advanced builders who are ready for an active weapon. 
The '''[https://www.endbots.com/products/vector-beetleweight-kit Vector]'''Link dead 2023-03 kit has a powerful horizontal spinner. This kit and website have been discontinued. 
The '''[https://absolutechaosrobotics.bigcartel.com/product/jolt-3lb-combat-robot-kit Jolt! V2]''' kit is an updated 4WD version of the powerful undercutting disk spinner design for intermediate kit builders. 
The '''[https://www.owobotics.com/product/donkey-kit Team OgreKill "DONKEY"]''' kit is a solidly built wedge with a powerful brushless drive system. 
'''[https://www.golapse.xyz/product/smeetle Smeetleweight ]''' is a fun version of the popular bot Smeeeee! 
The '''[https://www.fingertechrobotics.com/proddetail.php?prod=ft-3lb-beater-bot FingerTech Beater Bundle]''' offers a menu of materials to make a beater bar bot, but leaves it to the builder to cut and shape the materials to make the frame. 
'''[https://repeat-robotics.com/buy/pbk/ Peter Bar Kit]''' is a highly destructive and successful vertical spinner design, recommended for experienced builders. 
The pricey '''[https://shop.kiwi.engineering/products/beetleweight-drum-robot-kit-exile Exile]''' kit has a tool steel drum spinner and one-piece billet aluminum frame. 

==Bigger Robot Kits==
'''[http://www.battlekits.com/ BattleKits]''' aren't fully functional kits but are drive platforms for larger robots ranging from sixty pound lightweights to two hundred fifty pound Battlebots. You'll need to fashion your own wedge or weapon to make these bots ready for combat.

Suppliers

2025-06-08T07:20:12Z

Chklnk: Add Malice

Robot combat uses many parts used in other hobbies, such as remote-control '''[[Radios]]''', but to meet unique needs of the hobby there are many '''specialty suppliers'''.

=General parts=
*[https://banebots.com/ Banebots]
*[https://botbitz.com.au/ BotBitz] (AU)
*[https://bristolbotbuilders.com/ Bristol Bot Builders] (UK)
*[https://www.combatrobotkits.com/ Combat Robot Kits]
*[https://www.fingertechrobotics.com/ FingerTech Robotics]
*[https://itgresa.com/robotics-kits/ ItGresa]
*[https://justcuzrobotics.com/shop Just 'Cuz Robotics Store]
*[https://magmotorstore.com/ Magmotor]
*[https://teammalice.com/index.php/shop/micro-malice-store/ Micro Malice Store]
*[https://monsoonrobotics.co.uk/collections/all-robot-parts Monsoon Robotics]
*[https://nutsandbots.co.uk/ Nuts And Bots] (UK)
*[https://www.owobotics.com/ OwObotics]
*[https://palmbeachbots.com/ Palm Beach Bots]
*[https://rectifiedrobotics.com/ Rectified Robotics]
*[https://repeat-robotics.com/ Repeat Robotics]
*[https://www.robotmarketplace.com/ The Robot MarketPlace]
*[https://www.robotpower.com/ Robot Power]
*[https://shop.robotsmashingleague.com/ Robot Smashing League]
*[https://turnabot.com/ Turnabot]

=Robot kits=
See the '''[[Kits]]''' page.

Main Page

2025-06-08T07:16:02Z

Chklnk: /* Categories */ Test boxes

[[File:Robogames_Arena.jpg|thumb|Robogames Arena]]

== Robot Combat ==
 Welcome to the Robot Combat Wiki 
The goal of this Wiki is to have a single location that Robot Combat enthusiasts can come to find the information they are looking for. Like all Wikis, some content will be stored here while much of it will be links out to sources. Please be patient, it will take a while for the Wiki to build content. If there is something you'd like to know and you don't see a page for it, go ahead and create one. Editing some pages will be limited to known contributors but if you feel something should be changed or updated let us know or show that you can be a trusted contributor. 

Stay Safe! 
Some areas (like building flame throwers) are best left up to experts and pages dedicated to these areas will provide a general overview but we won't give step-by-step instructions on how to make things. We don't want people accidentally hurting themselves.

== Categories ==
* [[GettingStarted|Getting Started]]
* [[Rules]]
* [[Events]]
* [[RobotClasses|Robot Classes]]
* [[Robot_Combat_League|Robot Combat League]]
* [[RobotCommunity|Communities]]
* [[Robots|Teams and Robots]]
* [[Kits]]
* [[3D Printing]]
* [[Weapons]]
* [[Suppliers]]
* [[OnlineTools|Online Tools]]
* [[Test Boxes]]

== Component Parts ==
* [[Batteries]]
* [[Battery eliminator circuit (BEC)]]
* [[Connectors]]
* [[ESCs|Electronic Speed Controllers]]
* [[Magnets]]
* [[Motors]]
* [[Radios]]
* [[Servos]]
* [[Switches]]
* [[Wheels]]
 

== Getting started with MediaWiki ==
Consult the [https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Help:Contents User's Guide] for information on using the wiki software.

* [https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Manual:Configuration_settings Configuration settings list]
* [https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Manual:FAQ MediaWiki FAQ]
* [https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/mediawiki-announce MediaWiki release mailing list]
* [https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Localisation#Translation_resources Localise MediaWiki for your language]
* [https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Manual:Combating_spam Learn how to combat spam on your wiki]

Test Boxes

2025-06-08T07:15:26Z

Chklnk: Some test boxes (new page)

Effective full-combat robots are too dangerous to be tested except in a properly constructed enclosure. A good enclosure is designed to protect people from injury and death, and property from damage and destruction. Common hazards are:

*Debris, which can fly great distances in moments
*Fire and flame from batteries, circuit failure, or miswiring
*Fragmentation of robots and test targets

==At Events==
Many builders only test their bots at competitive events. Generally events will allow access to a prepared combat arena at specified times, or by request. Large robots should only be tested in such circumstances. Some events also have one or more test boxes available. Strictly follow event rules for their use, including closing and locking the lid before each use, and opening only when safe.

==Outdoor Testing==
Historically some robots have been tested outdoors in the open air, a great distance from people and buildings alike. '''This is not recommended due to the likelihood of flying and even falling debris in case of a failure or loss of control.''' Spinning weapons and robots are especially dangerous, but even hitting a crack in concrete may trigger damage or cause parts to go flying.

==Test Boxes==
In general, small robots (insectweight, 3 pound and under) can be checked in relatively small test boxes. Instructions for building some are linked below.

*[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdSkZc4kfAw Just 'Cuz Robotics video guide]]
*[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lw5YuJKg8vA Team Skorpios Builder Blog]] with BattleBots stories
*[[https://nearchaos.net/2024/03/building-a-compact-portable-test-box/ Near Chaos: Compact, Portable Test Box]]
*[[https://www.fingertechrobotics.com/safety.php FingerTech Safety Guide]], test box is at the bottom

Suppliers

2025-04-26T18:39:21Z

Chklnk: /* General parts */ Link updates, +RSL shop

Robot combat uses many parts used in other hobbies, such as remote-control '''[[Radios]]''', but to meet unique needs of the hobby there are many '''specialty suppliers'''.

=General parts=
*[https://banebots.com/ Banebots]
*[https://botbitz.com.au/ BotBitz] (AU)
*[https://bristolbotbuilders.com/ Bristol Bot Builders] (UK)
*[https://www.combatrobotkits.com/ Combat Robot Kits]
*[https://www.fingertechrobotics.com/ FingerTech Robotics]
*[https://itgresa.com/robotics-kits/ ItGresa]
*[https://justcuzrobotics.com/shop Just 'Cuz Robotics Store]
*[https://magmotorstore.com/ Magmotor]
*[https://monsoonrobotics.co.uk/collections/all-robot-parts Monsoon Robotics]
*[https://nutsandbots.co.uk/ Nuts And Bots] (UK)
*[https://www.owobotics.com/ OwObotics]
*[https://palmbeachbots.com/ Palm Beach Bots]
*[https://rectifiedrobotics.com/ Rectified Robotics]
*[https://repeat-robotics.com/ Repeat Robotics]
*[https://www.robotmarketplace.com/ The Robot MarketPlace]
*[https://www.robotpower.com/ Robot Power]
*[https://shop.robotsmashingleague.com/ Robot Smashing League]
*[https://turnabot.com/ Turnabot]

=Robot kits=
See the '''[[Kits]]''' page.

Rules

2025-01-20T07:55:18Z

Chklnk: /* Standardized rules */ Add MRCA

=Robot Combat Rules=
Robot combat has several organizations that develop rules of play. The rules cover both robot construction and match procedures. However, in the USA there is no national league or governing body defining local rules. The sport is still young, and each event can choose its own rules, experiment, and innovate.

Good rules ensure fair fights, impartial judging decisions, and most of all, uniform standards of safety.

==Standardized rules==
Here are some of the organizations which have published rules and guidelines for robot combat events. You can freely download and read any of these rules.

*'''[https://sparc.tools/ Standard Procedures for the Advancement of Robot Combat]''', publisher of numerous resources for arena construction, competitors, judges, and more. SPARC has the most commonly used reference guides for robot construction and match Procedures. Event organizers discuss SPARC rules changes regularly.
*'''[http://www.nerc.us/ Northeast Robotics Club]''', a prominent competitive organization - [http://www.nerc.us/rules.html NERC Rules]
*'''[https://midwestrobotcombat.com/ Midwest Robot Combat Association]''', an expanding network of USA Midwestern events - [https://midwestrobotcombat.com/rules/ MRCA Rules]
*'''[https://www.fightingrobots.co.uk/ Fighting Robot Association]''' is centered in the UK - most events in Europe use their [https://www.fightingrobots.co.uk/content/23-rules-and-safety_1 FRA Rules]
*'''[https://www.nhrl.io/ National Havoc Robot League]''' have their own [https://www.nhrl.io/rules NHRL Rules]
*'''[https://battlebots.com/ BattleBots]''' is a TV show with 250 pound fighting robots - [https://battlebots.com/rules/ BattleBots Rules] are reviewed yearly

(National Robotics League is not on this list because only students on authorized teams may participate.)

==Local rules==
When building your robot, decide which '''[[events]]''' you plan to compete in, learn which standard rules are in use, and check for exceptions or changes to the rules that may affect you. Generally events are locally run, and each is different, with rules adapted to the local requirements and situation, including the event venue, number of available volunteers or workers, and arena type. Here are some examples of local variations:
* '''Arenas''' - For many bot builders, travel to multiple locations to compete isn't practical. Consequently, multi-city leagues are unusual, and unlike football, the arena of play is not standardized. Some arenas have metal floors, some wood; some will have pits or fences, while others do not; some arenas have thick, heavy polycarbonate windows while others can safely contain only bots with lower total weapon energy.
* '''Venues''' vary as well; for example, many if not most local clubs meet in event spaces where open flame isn't allowed, preventing the use of fire weapons. The use of power tools may be restricted to a safe area or even banished to the outdoors.
* When '''Volunteers''' are scarce or unavailable, the event may be streamlined in various ways, such as simplified judging (see below).
* '''Match time''' is most typically 3 minutes; however, if there are many competitors or other event time restrictions, two-minute matches are common.

=Judging Systems=
There are several different methods to judge a robot combat match.

Generally, if a robot is disabled, thrown out of bounds, or unable to travel normally on the arena floor, the judges will determine that the robot has lost the match.

If neither bot is disabled or disqualified, judges must render a decision. This is usually done with a point system weighted to bring out the best in bot designers and drivers, but designed never to result in a tie. For example, judges under SPARC rules give points for Aggression (5 points), Damage (6 points) and Control (6 points), but shared between two opponents.

If both robots appear to have suffered equal damage, each would receive equal points (3 each) using the SPARC rules. If both also exhibited equal control ability, both would receive 3 points. The judges must weigh which driver was the more aggressive to break the tie. However, it's possible on some point scoring systems for 2 of 3 judges to believe one robot has won, but the 3rd judge assigns enough points to override them.

==Edge cases==
Event organizers may make exceptions for specific issues caused by the arena itself. For example, if bots gets jammed against the walls due to a design flaw or normal arena wear and tear, judges may direct opponents to stop the match and free a bot that gets stuck instead of counting that bot out of play. The bot's driver is expected to avoid that situation in the future.

A "one free unstick" rule may also apply to bots that have become entangled or locked together.

==Judge's Call variant==
Many events have done away with the detailed scoring system and simply have each judge indicate which bot they felt won the overall match. While this may lead to more consistent results, some builders get frustrated without scores to indicate why they won or lost the match. Different events also have different allowances for judges to talk with each other when making decisions. Some events want each judge to come to their own conclusions independently, while others think it better to have judges compare notes and discuss the results.

==Outcome variant==
Matches can also be judged by a simplified system based solely by the state of the robots at the end. For example:

*2 points awarded to the survivor when the other bot is knocked out, disabled, or falls into a pit ('''Win''')
*2 points awarded if the opponent is disqualified or forfeits the match before it starts ('''Bye''')
*1 point awarded to each bot remaining after time expires and the match is over ('''Tie''')
*0 points for a bot that is knocked out, disabled, or falls into a pit ('''Loss''')
*0 points awarded to a bot that is not ready for combat or is disqualified ('''Forfeit''')

This system is ideal for informal matches and usually doesn't require impartial judgment. However, it's important that the term "disabled" is clearly defined and understood by all participants.

Since all types of bots must be able to disable their opponent, it's best if this variant is played in an arena with pits or other hazards that will potentially allow wedge bots and partially damaged bots a chance to win.

RobotClasses

2025-01-20T07:46:08Z

Chklnk: Update shuffle now 1.25x, Walker better defined, autonomous bonus mentioned

To keep matches fair, robots compete against others that are in a similar "class." The most common distinction is the weight class. Builders must be aware of which classes are allowed in the '''[[Events|events]]''' they participate in. Some robot classes are very popular while others are very rare; before you build a 6lb Mantisweight bot be sure that your chosen event runs that weight class.

[[File:Robot_Weight_Classes.jpg|thumb|1 pound Antweight to 60 pound Lightweight]]
=Weight Classes=

Weight class restricts the maximum fighting weight allowed for a robot.

'''Caution:''' Terms such as "Antweight" and "Beetleweight" differ across event regions as shown below.
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Robot Weight Classes
|-
! Class !! [https://sparc.tools/ SPARC] (USA) !! [https://www.fightingrobots.co.uk/ FRA] (UK) !! Special
|-
| Fleaweight || 75g || -- || --
|-
| Fairyweight || 150g || -- || --
|-
| Antweight || 1lb || 150g (0.33 lb) || --
|-
| Beetleweight || 3lb || 1.5kg (3.3 lb) || --
|-
| Mantisweight || 6lb || -- || --
|-
| Hobbyweight || 12lb || -- || Also [https://www.nhrl.io/ NHRL]
|-
| Dogeweight || 15lb || -- || [https://gonrl.org/ National Robotics League]
|-
| Featherweight || 30lb || 13.6kg (30lb) || --
|-
| Lightweight || 60lb || 30kg (66.1 lb) || --
|-
| Middleweight || 120lb || 55kg (121lb) || --
|-
| Heavyweight || 220lb || 110kg (242.5 lb) || --
|-
| TV-Heavyweight || 250lb || -- || [https://battlebots.com/ BattleBots®]
|}

Often weight bonuses will be offered for specific design features. For example, SPARC rules allow for bots to be up to 25% heavier for bots which shuffle instead of roll, or double weight for bots which fully qualify as Walker (able to walk without rolling or cam-operated mechanics). Likewise, BattleBots heavyweights can currently be up to 500.0 pounds if they can walk using articulated legs, and meet a number of other design criteria. Sometimes autonomous features may qualify for weight bonus.

Weight classes may include size restrictions; for example, 150g Antweight (UK) is generally required to fit within a 100x100x100mm cube. Read the event '''[[Rules|rules]]''' for details.

=Weapon Restricted Classes=
These robot classes align with an existing weight class, but have further restrictions on what [[Weapons|weapons]] can be used as well as other possible restrictions on things like using ground-scraping wedges. These are often chosen for events where they don't have an arena that can safely contain a full-combat robot; for example, spinning weapons may be forbidden, or limited in kinetic energy.

Before entering this type of competition, please read your event's rules to understand the restrictions.

==Non-Destructive Class==
Robots in non-destructive classes are not allowed to use saws, piercing weapons, fire, etc. to damage other bots. Flipping, throwing, and impact damage are permitted. There is normally a pit available so that robots without active weapons (wedges) can knock their opponents out of the arena. This is ideal for builders who don't want their creations so easily destroyed.

Other classes in the same event may be labeled "destructive" for clarity.

==Sportsman Class==
Robots qualifying for Sportsman class according to SPARC rules must have an active weapon. Wedges may be restricted in number or type. Spinning weapons are limited in tip speed except when the tooth pitch is fine enough to qualify them as saws or saw-like weapons; drills are also permitted. These rules, as well as any additional restrictions that may apply, serve to limit weapon energy and force, and therefore limit damage to the arena and injury to participants and the audience. Event rules may vary according to the arena itself, and must be studied by all competitors in this class.

=Construction Restricted Classes=
These classes place restrictions on construction materials and methods.

==Plastic Ant==
In an effort to make robot building more accessible the '''[[Plastic_Antweights|plastic antweight]]''' class was started by '''[https://westernalliedrobotics.com Western Allied Robotics]'''. These robots are primarily 3d printed but can be fabricated out of approved plastics. The robot class became popular and the rules were adopted by '''[https://sparc.tools/ SPARC]'''.

==Termiteweight==
There are kits to construct combat robots from laser-cut wood pieces. They have all the parts needed to construct the robot and the transmitter, but no spares in case of damage. This type of bot is humorously known as "termite weight," and while they could in theory be entered into organized competition in the 1lb class, they have many serious disadvantages compared to normal 1lb opponents, such as plastic motor gears, lower battery capacity, and slower battery charging (or non-rechargeable batteries). Termite kits are fun, but are unlikely to succeed against more robust bots.

==Lego==
You can also build combat robots with Lego® bricks, motors, and remote controls. (Select non-Lego components such as BuWizz parts may be permitted.) Brick fan and builder community events such as BrickFair showcase Lego combat bots with most of the common combat robot weapons, each designed with structures for optimal defense against hard impacts.

These events have their own rules (for example, the BattleBricks rules, or the CRBL or '''[https://discord.com/invite/yyZHyqXS8M Combat Robotics Brick League]''' rules). Since weight classes, weight bonuses, parts selection, etc. are so different, and because they are unlikely to survive an encounter with a regular combat robot of a similar weight, these won't be covered in this wiki.

=Technology Restricted Classes=

==Autonomous==
This very unusual restriction requires builders to compete with robots that can find their opponents, drive themselves where needed, and make their own decisions about how to attack. Remote control of the robot is not allowed while the match is in progress. This can be done with simple sensors that cause the robot to travel all over the area and attack whatever they bump into. It is more effective using open-source machine vision, combined with either basic algorithms, machine learning, or even AI. Robotic mapping can be used to either use or avoid the arena boundaries to best effect.

=Historic Weight Classes=
120 lb was the competition class for high school and collegiate educational program '''BattleBots IQ'''. Later the program added a 15 lb Mini Class bot competition; 120 lb became Large Class.

Heavyweight bots have historically varied from 100-110kg, and there was once a 340 pound Super Heavyweight Battlebots class.

'''[https://robotwars.fandom.com/wiki/Weight_Classes This article]''' covers much of the history of weight classes in robot combat.

'''[https://www.teamdelta.com/roboglad/index.html Learn about the original 1999 Lego Robogladiators]''' from Dan at Team Delta.

Events

2025-01-07T08:50:38Z

Chklnk: /* Past Event Pages */ RIP TAMU series

[[File:WAR_Sportsman.jpg|thumb|Sportsman Rumble at WAR]]
=Finding Events=
Most events are listed on one of these sites:

*The '''[https://www.robotcombatevents.com RobotCombatEvents]''' website has Search and [https://www.robotcombatevents.com/event_map Map View] features to find events by location; perhaps there's one near you! If you don't see any close by, search for past events to learn which organizations operate nearby, and watch for their next event to be listed.

*The '''[https://www.buildersdb.com/ Builder's Database]''' site has been beautifully refreshed and has many of the same features. Check both sites to make sure you aren't missing any events in your area.

*The '''[https://bristolbotbuilders.com/events/ BBB Events Listing]''' features both UK and EU events.

*The '''[https://www.rampagebots.co.uk/events Rampage Events]''' page shows a variety of UK-based events.

=Hosting Events=
So you've got the robot combat bug and you want to host an event. You should attend one and volunteer to help to learn how they are run. If you are sure you want to make a poor life choice and host your own event, head over to '''[https://sparc.tools/ SPARC]''' for a treasure trove of information for Event Organizers, including Tournament Procedures, Match Rules, Judging Guidelines, Arena Construction and more. Once you've read everything then you need to think about where you'll store the arena, how it will be transported, where you will hold your events, and how will you get help running them. It's a big commitment and if you are ready to do it the rewards can be terrific but know what you are getting yourself into.

There are a lot of best-practices for Event Organizers on how to prepare for events, set things up so they run smoothly, and avoid common pitfalls. If you are serious about starting an event (it doesn't need to be a big event), send an email to robotcombatevents@gmail.com to be put into contact with other organizers.

=Current Event Clubs=
Here is a partial list of robot combat events (click arrows on column headings to sort by name, location, or weight class). These are clubs, organizations and even individuals putting on events worldwide. Many hold multiple events each year. In all cases they should be thanked! Most use either the '''[[Rules|SPARC or FRA rules]]''', but if you are '''[[GettingStarted|planning on competing]]''', check with each event's organizer for the specific rules they will use.
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+ Event Organizations
|-
! Event !! State !! City !! Country !! Supported [[RobotClasses|Classes]]
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/AdelaideRobotCombat/permalink/2049861968618530/ Adelaide Robot Combat] || South Australia || Adelaide || AU || 150g
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/alburywodogarobotbattles/ Albury Wodogaro Robot Battles] || New South Wales || Albury || AU || 150g
|-
| [http://www.angryroosterrobotics.com/ Angry Rooster Robotics] || Alabama || Huntsville || USA ||1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|-
| [http://antlog.garya.org.uk/ Antweight World Series] || England, occasionally others || Touring event - many locations || UK, occasionally others ||150g
|-
| [http://azroboticcombat.com/ Arizona Robotic Combat] || Arizona || Phoenix || USA ||150g, 1lb 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2172601139696740 Backwoods Combat Robots] || Tennessee || Chapel Hill || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.battlebots.com/ Battlebots] || California ||Los Angeles || USA || 250lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057054446012 Bay Area Robotic Combat] || California || Richmond || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/Bayside-Robotics-104627878106463/ Bayside Robotics] || Delaware ||Newark || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/Beetleweight/ BeetleBelt] || England || Burgess Hill || UK || 3lb
|-
| [https://botgeddon.com/ Bot'Geddon] || California || Rocklin || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic
|-
| [http://www.botbrawl.ca/ Bot Brawl] || Ontario || Mississauga || CA || 1lb, 3lb, 30lb-Sumo, 150-Sumo
|-
| [http://antlog.garya.org.uk/ Bot Fest] || England || Liverpool || UK || 150g
|-
| [https://bristolbotbuilders.com/events.html Bristol Bot Builders] || England || Bristol || UK || 150g, 3lb, 30lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/Budget-Bot-Builders-112263420944455 Budget Bot Builders] || Colorado || Colorado Springs || USA || 150g
|-
| [https://bugglebots.com/ BuggleBots] || England || Bristol || UK || 3lb
|-
| [http://www.carolinacombat.com/ Carolina Combat Robots] || North Carolina || Hickory || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|-
| [http://www.circpeoria.org/ Central Illinois Robotics Club] || Illinois || Peoria || USA || 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/ColoradoCombatRobotics Colorado Combat Robotics] || Colorado || Denver || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 30lb-Sportsman
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/CombatRobotNZ Combat Robotics NZ] || Auckland || Grafton || NZ || 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/437521800412767/ Combat Robots of Oklahoma] || Oklahoma || Tulsa || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [https://athena.ecs.csus.edu/~comprobo/Events.html Competitive Robotics at Sacramento State] || California || Sacramento || USA || 1lb
|-
| [http://www.dutchrobotgames.nl/ Dutch Robot Games] || Gelderland || Ulft || NL || 30lb
|-
| [https://mad-metal-machines.de/ German Roboteers Association] || Lower Saxony || Hannover || DE || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/hacrusa/ High Adrenaline Combat Robotics] || Texas || Houston || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, Lego
|-
| [https://ipswichroboticssportsgroup.wordpress.com Ipswich Robotics Sport Group] || Queensland || Brisbane || AU || 150g, 3lb
|-
| [https://makerspacect.com/makerbattle/ MakerspaceCT] || Connecticut || Hartford || USA || 3lb
|-
| [http://macrobot.us/ Macrobot.us] || Maryland || Baltimore || USA || 1lb-Plastic
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/events/216270486988808/ Melbourne Combat Robotics] || Victoria || Melbourne || AU || 150g, 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [http://www.mtras.com/ Middle Tennessee Robotics Art Society] || Tennessee || Nashville || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [https://midwestrobotcombat.com/ Midwest Robot Combat Association (MRCA)] || Milwaukee || Wisconsin || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb
|-
| Minnesota Combat Robotics || Minnesota || Eagan || USA || 150g, 1lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/missourirobotfights/ Missouri Robot Fights] || Missouri || Joplin || USA || 1lb
|-
| [https://gonrl.org National Robotics League] || Various || Various || USA || 15lb
|-
| [https://www.nerc.us North East Robotics Club] || Pennsylvania || Harrisburg || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 30lb-Sportsman
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2211361815847314/ North Texas Bot Battles] || Texas || Dallas/Fort Worth || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.nhrl.io/ National Havoc Robot League] || Connecticut || Norwalk || USA || 3lb, 12lb, 30lb
|-
| [http://www.ohiorobotclub.com/ Ohio Robotics Club] || Ohio || Sandusky || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 6lb
|-
| [https://www.osubattlebots.org/ Oregon State Combat Robotics] || Oregon || Corvallis || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/QueenslandRoboticsSportsClub Queensland Robotics Sports Club] || Queensland || - || AU || -
|-
| [https://events.robocore.net/ RoboCore] || Minas Gerais || Santa Rita do Sapucaí || BR || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 30lb, 60lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/RobodojoUK/ RoboDojo] || England || York || UK || 150g, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb
|-
| [http://www.robotbattles.com/ Robot Battles] || Georgia || Atlanta || USA || 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb
|-
| [https://discord.gg/zefrc3BA Robotics @UH (University of Houston)] || Texas || Houston || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.makemia.com/robot-riot Robot Riot] || Florida || West Palm Beach || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [http://robogames.net/ RoboGames] || California || Pleasanton (SF Bay Area) || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 60lb, 120lb, 250lb
|-
| [https://robotruckus.org/ Robot Ruckus] || Florida || Orlando || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 220lb-Sportsman
|-
| [http://www.robowars.org/ Robowars Australia] || Queensland || Brisbane || AU || 30lb
|-
| [https://kilobots.com/ Saskatoon Combat Robotics Club] || Saskatchewan || Saskatoon || CA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/smashbotz Smashbotz] || California || Los Angeles || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/640098953444052 Southern California Attack Robotics] || California || Walnut || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 15lb
|-
| [https://texasrobotcombat.com/ Texas Robot Combat] || Texas || Dallas || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.utahcombatrobotics.com/ Utah Combat Robotics] || Utah || Salt Lake City || USA || 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [http://vegascombatrobotics.com/ Vegas Combat Robotics] || Nevada || Las Vegas || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|-
| [https://westernalliedrobotics.com Western Allied Robotics] || Washington || Seattle || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb-Sportsman
|-
| [https://https://discord.gg/hzvM5zQURg Wisconsin Robot Combat] || Wisconsin || Oconomowoc || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|}

==Past Event Pages==
These events are no longer active.
* [https://botblast.webs.com/ Bot Blast: 1lb and 3lb in Bloomburg Pennsylvania]
* [https://tamurobomasters.com/ Texas Aimbots: 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb in Bryan-College Station, Texas] - adjunct program of Texas A&M Robomasters Robotics, combat series 2022-2024

Events

2024-12-06T04:26:44Z

Chklnk: /* Current Event Clubs */ Add NTTB Texas

[[File:WAR_Sportsman.jpg|thumb|Sportsman Rumble at WAR]]
=Finding Events=
Most events are listed on one of these sites:

*The '''[https://www.robotcombatevents.com RobotCombatEvents]''' website has Search and [https://www.robotcombatevents.com/event_map Map View] features to find events by location; perhaps there's one near you! If you don't see any close by, search for past events to learn which organizations operate nearby, and watch for their next event to be listed.

*The '''[https://www.buildersdb.com/ Builder's Database]''' site has been beautifully refreshed and has many of the same features. Check both sites to make sure you aren't missing any events in your area.

*The '''[https://bristolbotbuilders.com/events/ BBB Events Listing]''' features both UK and EU events.

*The '''[https://www.rampagebots.co.uk/events Rampage Events]''' page shows a variety of UK-based events.

=Hosting Events=
So you've got the robot combat bug and you want to host an event. You should attend one and volunteer to help to learn how they are run. If you are sure you want to make a poor life choice and host your own event, head over to '''[https://sparc.tools/ SPARC]''' for a treasure trove of information for Event Organizers, including Tournament Procedures, Match Rules, Judging Guidelines, Arena Construction and more. Once you've read everything then you need to think about where you'll store the arena, how it will be transported, where you will hold your events, and how will you get help running them. It's a big commitment and if you are ready to do it the rewards can be terrific but know what you are getting yourself into.

There are a lot of best-practices for Event Organizers on how to prepare for events, set things up so they run smoothly, and avoid common pitfalls. If you are serious about starting an event (it doesn't need to be a big event), send an email to robotcombatevents@gmail.com to be put into contact with other organizers.

=Current Event Clubs=
Here is a partial list of robot combat events (click arrows on column headings to sort by name, location, or weight class). These are clubs, organizations and even individuals putting on events worldwide. Many hold multiple events each year. In all cases they should be thanked! Most use either the '''[[Rules|SPARC or FRA rules]]''', but if you are '''[[GettingStarted|planning on competing]]''', check with each event's organizer for the specific rules they will use.
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+ Event Organizations
|-
! Event !! State !! City !! Country !! Supported [[RobotClasses|Classes]]
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/AdelaideRobotCombat/permalink/2049861968618530/ Adelaide Robot Combat] || South Australia || Adelaide || AU || 150g
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/alburywodogarobotbattles/ Albury Wodogaro Robot Battles] || New South Wales || Albury || AU || 150g
|-
| [http://www.angryroosterrobotics.com/ Angry Rooster Robotics] || Alabama || Huntsville || USA ||1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|-
| [http://antlog.garya.org.uk/ Antweight World Series] || England, occasionally others || Touring event - many locations || UK, occasionally others ||150g
|-
| [http://azroboticcombat.com/ Arizona Robotic Combat] || Arizona || Phoenix || USA ||150g, 1lb 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2172601139696740 Backwoods Combat Robots] || Tennessee || Chapel Hill || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.battlebots.com/ Battlebots] || California ||Los Angeles || USA || 250lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057054446012 Bay Area Robotic Combat] || California || Richmond || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/Bayside-Robotics-104627878106463/ Bayside Robotics] || Delaware ||Newark || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/Beetleweight/ BeetleBelt] || England || Burgess Hill || UK || 3lb
|-
| [https://botgeddon.com/ Bot'Geddon] || California || Rocklin || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic
|-
| [http://www.botbrawl.ca/ Bot Brawl] || Ontario || Mississauga || CA || 1lb, 3lb, 30lb-Sumo, 150-Sumo
|-
| [http://antlog.garya.org.uk/ Bot Fest] || England || Liverpool || UK || 150g
|-
| [https://bristolbotbuilders.com/events.html Bristol Bot Builders] || England || Bristol || UK || 150g, 3lb, 30lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/Budget-Bot-Builders-112263420944455 Budget Bot Builders] || Colorado || Colorado Springs || USA || 150g
|-
| [https://bugglebots.com/ BuggleBots] || England || Bristol || UK || 3lb
|-
| [http://www.carolinacombat.com/ Carolina Combat Robots] || North Carolina || Hickory || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|-
| [http://www.circpeoria.org/ Central Illinois Robotics Club] || Illinois || Peoria || USA || 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/ColoradoCombatRobotics Colorado Combat Robotics] || Colorado || Denver || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 30lb-Sportsman
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/CombatRobotNZ Combat Robotics NZ] || Auckland || Grafton || NZ || 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/437521800412767/ Combat Robots of Oklahoma] || Oklahoma || Tulsa || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [https://athena.ecs.csus.edu/~comprobo/Events.html Competitive Robotics at Sacramento State] || California || Sacramento || USA || 1lb
|-
| [http://www.dutchrobotgames.nl/ Dutch Robot Games] || Gelderland || Ulft || NL || 30lb
|-
| [https://mad-metal-machines.de/ German Roboteers Association] || Lower Saxony || Hannover || DE || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/hacrusa/ High Adrenaline Combat Robotics] || Texas || Houston || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, Lego
|-
| [https://ipswichroboticssportsgroup.wordpress.com Ipswich Robotics Sport Group] || Queensland || Brisbane || AU || 150g, 3lb
|-
| [https://makerspacect.com/makerbattle/ MakerspaceCT] || Connecticut || Hartford || USA || 3lb
|-
| [http://macrobot.us/ Macrobot.us] || Maryland || Baltimore || USA || 1lb-Plastic
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/events/216270486988808/ Melbourne Combat Robotics] || Victoria || Melbourne || AU || 150g, 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [http://www.mtras.com/ Middle Tennessee Robotics Art Society] || Tennessee || Nashville || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [https://midwestrobotcombat.com/ Midwest Robot Combat Association (MRCA)] || Milwaukee || Wisconsin || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb
|-
| Minnesota Combat Robotics || Minnesota || Eagan || USA || 150g, 1lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/missourirobotfights/ Missouri Robot Fights] || Missouri || Joplin || USA || 1lb
|-
| [https://gonrl.org National Robotics League] || Various || Various || USA || 15lb
|-
| [https://www.nerc.us North East Robotics Club] || Pennsylvania || Harrisburg || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 30lb-Sportsman
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2211361815847314/ North Texas Bot Battles] || Texas || Dallas/Fort Worth || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.nhrl.io/ National Havoc Robot League] || Connecticut || Norwalk || USA || 3lb, 12lb, 30lb
|-
| [http://www.ohiorobotclub.com/ Ohio Robotics Club] || Ohio || Sandusky || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 6lb
|-
| [https://www.osubattlebots.org/ Oregon State Combat Robotics] || Oregon || Corvallis || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/QueenslandRoboticsSportsClub Queensland Robotics Sports Club] || Queensland || - || AU || -
|-
| [https://events.robocore.net/ RoboCore] || Minas Gerais || Santa Rita do Sapucaí || BR || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 30lb, 60lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/RobodojoUK/ RoboDojo] || England || York || UK || 150g, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb
|-
| [http://www.robotbattles.com/ Robot Battles] || Georgia || Atlanta || USA || 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb
|-
| [https://discord.gg/zefrc3BA Robotics @UH (University of Houston)] || Texas || Houston || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.makemia.com/robot-riot Robot Riot] || Florida || West Palm Beach || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [http://robogames.net/ RoboGames] || California || Pleasanton (SF Bay Area) || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 60lb, 120lb, 250lb
|-
| [https://robotruckus.org/ Robot Ruckus] || Florida || Orlando || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, 220lb-Sportsman
|-
| [http://www.robowars.org/ Robowars Australia] || Queensland || Brisbane || AU || 30lb
|-
| [https://kilobots.com/ Saskatoon Combat Robotics Club] || Saskatchewan || Saskatoon || CA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/smashbotz Smashbotz] || California || Los Angeles || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb
|-
| [https://www.facebook.com/groups/640098953444052 Southern California Attack Robotics] || California || Walnut || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb, 12lb, 15lb
|-
| [https://texasrobotcombat.com/ Texas Robot Combat] || Texas || Dallas || USA || 150g, 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [https://www.utahcombatrobotics.com/ Utah Combat Robotics] || Utah || Salt Lake City || USA || 1lb, 3lb
|-
| [http://vegascombatrobotics.com/ Vegas Combat Robotics] || Nevada || Las Vegas || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|-
| [https://westernalliedrobotics.com Western Allied Robotics] || Washington || Seattle || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb-Sportsman
|-
| [https://https://discord.gg/hzvM5zQURg Wisconsin Robot Combat] || Wisconsin || Oconomowoc || USA || 150g, 1lb, 1lb-Plastic, 3lb
|}

==Past Event Pages==
These events are no longer active
* [https://botblast.webs.com/ Bot Blast: 1lb and 3lb in Bloomburg Pennsylvania]

Safety

2024-10-28T05:56:38Z

Chklnk: Future Safety hub page (side image drop)

[[File:Arena-side.jpg|thumb|right]]
Future safety hub

*Brief overview
*Links to other pages with specific discussions
*Link to SPARC rules (do not just copy/repeat)
*Links to high quality online guides
*Stick with robot combat topics (tool safety, shop safety, etc. a distraction)

Example content

{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1q6o25itAU}}

File:Arena-side.jpg

2024-10-28T05:54:39Z

Chklnk: View of the side of a robot combat arena, with a remote control and weapon clamp on plywood in the foreground.

== Summary ==
View of the side of a robot combat arena, with a remote control and weapon clamp on plywood in the foreground.
== Licensing ==
{{self|cc-by-sa-4.0}}

Safety

2024-10-28T03:50:00Z

Chklnk: Future Safety hub page

Future safety hub

*Brief overview
*Links to other pages with specific discussions
*Link to SPARC rules (do not just copy/repeat)
*Links to high quality online guides
*Stick with robot combat topics (tool safety, shop safety, etc. a distraction)

Example content

{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1q6o25itAU}}

Robot Combat League

2024-10-28T02:38:42Z

Chklnk: Add event photo; season before score; simpler score+rank section

''Note: This article is not about the 2013 TV show of the same name.''

The '''[https://robotcombatleague.net/ Robot Combat League]''' is a non-profit whose mission is to promote STEM and design and fabrication skills through the exciting sport of Robot Combat.

[[File:Watching large arena 1600.jpg|1200px|none|A match at the 2023 Robot Combat League Championship in Seattle, WA, USA.]]
 

==How RCL works==
Robot Combat League is a national robot competition federation, not an official organizing body for Robot Combat. Launched in March 2022, it draws competitors from local events in the USA to participate at a national level. Although most local events in the League use the '''[https://sparc.tools/ SPARC]''' rule set or some variant, every event participating in the league is independent and can run their event as they see fit, so long as they fit into a very broad set of guidelines and agree to use the League event results tracking system that will help determine which bots are the top competitors in the USA. Highly ranked bots will be considered candidates for the annual Robot Combat League competition.

==Qualifying weight classes==
As of 2022, ranks are calculated for the most popular weight classes: 150g, 1lb, 1lb Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, and 30lb Sportsman robots. If more [[RobotClasses|weight classes]] become popular and events want to include them in the League, the ranked classes may be expanded.

==League season==
The season starts the first day of March and ends on the last day of February. Competitions in this time period are considered qualifiers for the next event. With the 2022 season being the first, adjustments to the season dates may be made if needed. Event data prior to March 2022 isn't complete, so take historical rankings with a grain of salt.

==Determining points and rankings==
Robots earn points by how highly they place at events they participate in. A robot's season total is taken from their top 3 - highest point events, provided there are at least 5 competitors in the same weight class competing, and rankings are determined from this season score.

Points are determined by how well a robot places in a competition, and is weighted by the number of robots competing. The exact calculations to determine a robots score can be '''[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1GGMDljRZXsq9HCCjCAIsGpup90LLsPtqhkUiPwJRPWY/edit#gid=0 viewed on this calculator]'''.

The [https://www.robotcombatevents.com/types Robot Combat League bot ranking page] is updated periodically and can be filtered by year.

==Competition history==
====2023====
The first season consisted of 98 local events and ran from March, 2022 to February, 2023. The Robot Combat League National Championship '''[https://www.robotcombatevents.com/events/853 first competition]''' took place May, 2023 in Seattle, Washington. Since an appropriate arena was not available for this event, 30lb destructive bots did not compete in 2023.

====2024====
Challengers for the '''[https://www.robotcombatevents.com/events/1250 April, 2024 National Championship]''' in San Jose, California were drawn from 126 qualifying events. This event was co-located with Robogames, a prominent west coast convention and series, and 30lb full-combat bots were added.

====2025====
The next championship is anticipated to be in Orange County, California in May, 2025.

==Why the Robot Combat League doesn't use the SPARC Botrank system==
Although the old Botrank system made an attempt at tracking how well robots performed, their system had several shortcomings.
* Botrank scores were greatly influenced by the number of events a bot has competed in; bots that competed a lot were favored over those that placed highly in events. This led to situations where a bot that competed and performed 'OK' in a half dozen events would be ranked higher than a robot that competed in and won two events.
* Forfeits in events were found to be inconsistently reported, leading to errors in ranking.
* Botrank rankings were adjusted based on an 18-month rolling time period. While this captures recent performance well, having a moving period where rankings would be set made calculations of seasonal rank difficult to evaluate.
* Botrank didn't have a way to disambiguate robots with the same name. Common robot names like 'Hazard' made the results unreliable.

File:Watching large arena 1600.jpg

2024-10-28T02:22:07Z

Chklnk:

At the 2023 Seattle RCL Championship, a crowd gathers to watch a match in the 30lb arena.

Main Page

2024-10-06T05:26:03Z

Chklnk: First link to Online Tools page

[[File:Robogames_Arena.jpg|thumb|Robogames Arena]]

== Robot Combat ==
 Welcome to the Robot Combat Wiki 
The goal of this Wiki is to have a single location that Robot Combat enthusiasts can come to find the information they are looking for. Like all Wikis, some content will be stored here while much of it will be links out to sources. Please be patient, it will take a while for the Wiki to build content. If there is something you'd like to know and you don't see a page for it, go ahead and create one. Editing some pages will be limited to known contributors but if you feel something should be changed or updated let us know or show that you can be a trusted contributor. 

Stay Safe! 
Some areas (like building flame throwers) are best left up to experts and pages dedicated to these areas will provide a general overview but we won't give step-by-step instructions on how to make things. We don't want people accidentally hurting themselves.

== Categories ==
* [[GettingStarted|Getting Started]]
* [[Rules]]
* [[Events]]
* [[RobotClasses|Robot Classes]]
* [[Robot_Combat_League|Robot Combat League]]
* [[RobotCommunity|Communities]]
* [[Robots|Teams and Robots]]
* [[Kits]]
* [[3D Printing]]
* [[Weapons]]
* [[Suppliers]]
* [[OnlineTools|Online Tools]]

== Component Parts ==
* [[Batteries]]
* [[Battery eliminator circuit (BEC)]]
* [[Connectors]]
* [[ESCs|Electronic Speed Controllers]]
* [[Magnets]]
* [[Motors]]
* [[Radios]]
* [[Servos]]
* [[Switches]]
* [[Wheels]]
 

== Getting started with MediaWiki ==
Consult the [https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Help:Contents User's Guide] for information on using the wiki software.

* [https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Manual:Configuration_settings Configuration settings list]
* [https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Manual:FAQ MediaWiki FAQ]
* [https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/mediawiki-announce MediaWiki release mailing list]
* [https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Localisation#Translation_resources Localise MediaWiki for your language]
* [https://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Manual:Combating_spam Learn how to combat spam on your wiki]

OnlineTools

2024-10-06T04:08:27Z

Chklnk: Chklnk moved page Tools to OnlineTools without leaving a redirect: Clearer title

A number of tools have been created for robot combat builders to be able to plan for and build effective bot weapons and drivetrains. Here are some community favorites:

==Mechanical==
Handy for drivetrains.

'''[https://www.bbman.com/belt-length-calculator/ Belt Length Calculator]''' - B&B Manufacturing

'''[http://www.jgermita.me/crresources Belt Center Distance Calculator]''' - Jeremy Germita

'''[http://www.jgermita.me/crresources Chain Center Distance Calculator]''' - Jeremy Germita

'''[https://www.kjmagnetics.com/calculator.asp Magnet Pull Force Calculator]''' - Calculate pull force based on distance, size, and grade. By K&J Magnetics.

==Motors==

'''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/motor_math.html Electric Motor Math]''' - Understanding the specs for PMDC (brushed) motors. By Team RoboForge, presented by Run Amok.

Also see '''[http://runamok.tech/AskAaron/constants.html Deriving Motor Constants]''' for surplus PMDC motors.

'''[http://www.jgermita.me/crresources Motor Speed and Pushing Power]''' - Choose brushed or brushless motors. By Jeremy Germita

'''[https://esc-configurator.com/ ESC Configurator]''' for programming (reflashing) ESCs online (Chrome/Chromium-type browser expected).

'''[https://github.com/frank26080115/EdgeTX-Scripts-and-FW-Collection/tree/main/Using-CRSF-and-ELRS-in-Combat-Robotics Using CRSF and ELRS in Combat Robotics]''' - get started with CRSF and update your ESCs from pulses to packets.

==Weapons==

Use these to find out not only how hard a spinning weapon will hit, but also whether it is compliant with maximum energy rules for the events you compete in.

'''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/spincalc.html Spinner Weapon Kinetic Energy Calculator]''' - SpinCalc by Run Amok. Read the help file! Mass, MOI, spin-up estimation, etc.

'''[http://www.jgermita.me/crresources Tip Speed Calculator]''' - Jeremy Germita

'''[https://bristolbotbuilders.com/tools/tipspeed/ Tip Speed and KE (Kinetic Energy) Calculator]''' - Bristol Bot Builders

==Control==

'''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/mixfix4.html Mixer Fixer]''' for correcting problems with channel mixing on your transmitter. By Run Amok.

==for Event Organizers==

Places to post '''[[Events]]'''.

'''[https://challonge.com/ Challonge.com]''' - Well established web-based tool for competitive events and tournament brackets. Integrated ticketing and payment via Stripe. Numerous '''[https://challonge.com/features/tournaments features]''', free version heavily ad supported. RobotCombatEvents.com has Challonge integration to feed event results to USA national rankings.

'''[https://truefinals.com/ TrueFinals.com]''' - New site in beta for tournament brackets. Stats and dashboards, competitor list with next opponent listed, integrated check-in and call up, video overlays for match recording/streaming, all also web-based. Well-documented API and small robot combat community creating deep integration.

'''[https://www.rampagebots.co.uk/ Rampage]''' is a tournament bracket/management site for UK matches, featuring Bugglebots and similar match formats, streaming features and API support.

'''[https://bigtimer.net/ BigTimer.net]''' - Large-display, ad supported, touch-enabled timer.

Motors

2024-10-06T03:56:25Z

Chklnk: De-orphan Hardening page

Electric motors impart a continuous spinning motion and are used in nearly every combat robot. They work by creating a rotating magnetic field, which is used to spin a shaft or a shell at high speed. Many motors will be attached to a gearbox, generally used to decrease the shaft speed and increase torque.

[[File:Brushless_Motor_8085.jpg|thumb|Maytech Brushless 8085]]

=Brushed (DC) Motors=
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brushed_DC_electric_motor DC Brushed] motors have historically dominated the sport due to their availability and simplicity. These motors have an electrical connection to the spinning part of the motor using contacts called [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brush_(electric) brushes].

DC motors have two wires or connections. Apply a suitable DC voltage to these and the motor will spin; reverse the connections, and the motor will spin in the opposite direction.

While these motors can be operated at full speed by switching power on and off as described, an [[ESCs|electronic speed controller (ESC)]] will allow you to control speed by turning the power on and off in very fast pulses. Most ESCs can also reverse the motor direction while in use, so that weapons, tires, etc. can move both ways. Only ESCs made for brushed motors can be used.

==Common brushed DC motors==
[[File:N20.jpg|thumb|N20 Motor]]
There are literally hundreds of motors to choose from but certain choices have become favorites over the years due to their availability and suitability for robot combat in terms of output-speed at typical voltages, ease of mounting into designs, and robustness. As with all things in robot combat, there are different choices common to different weight classes. 
In 150g to 1-pound classes the most common motors are N20 and 16mm motors from places like [https://www.fingertechrobotics.com/products.php?cat=Motors+%26+Mounts FingerTech] or [https://www.botkits.com/collections/all-products BotKits] 
In the 3-pound classes, 25mm spur gear motors and 22mm planetary gear motors are very common. 

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Common Brushed DC Gear Motors
|-
! Motor Type !! Source 1 !! Source 2 !! Source 3 !! Source 4
|-
| N10 Spur Gear || [https://nutsandbots.co.uk/product/n10gearmotor/ Nuts&Bots] || [https://turnabot.com/products/high-power-n10 Turnabot] || ||
|-
| N20 Spur Gear || [https://www.pololu.com/category/60/micro-metal-gearmotors Pololu] || [https://www.servocity.com/premium-n20-gear-motors/ ServoCity] || [https://www.dfrobot.com/category-110.html DFRobot] || [https://turnabot.com/products/high-power-n10 Turnabot]
|-
| 16mm Spur Gear || [https://www.fingertechrobotics.com/proddetail.php?prod=ft-Sspark16 FingerTech] || [https://www.botkits.com/products/four-battle-hardened-motors?_pos=6&_sid=a383cc490&_ss=r BotKits] || ||
|-
| 16mm Planetary Gear || [https://repeat-robotics.com/buy/brushed/ Repeat Robotics] || || ||
|-
| 20mm Spur Gear || [https://www.servocity.com/econ-spur-gear-motors/ ServoCity] || ||
|-
| 22mm Planetary Gear || [https://www.botkits.com/collections/all-products/products/22mm-dc-gearmotor-with-aluminum-gearbox?variant=12493978959974 BotKits] || [https://rectifiedrobotics.com/collections/motors/products/22mm-planetary-gearmotor-1 RectifiedRobotics] || [https://www.servocity.com/premium-planetary-gear-motors/ ServoCity] ||
|-
| 25mm Spur Gear || [https://www.kitbots.com/product.sc?productId=20&categoryId=1 KitBots] || [https://www.servocity.com/econ-spur-gear-motors/ ServoCity] || ||
|-
| 25mm Double Spur Gear || [https://absolutechaosrobotics.bigcartel.com/product/beetle-weight-drive-parts AbsoluteChaosRobotics] || ||
|}

=Brushless Motors=
In recent years [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brushless_DC_electric_motor DC Brushless] motors have become more popular. Also known as BLDC (Brushless direct current), these motors are often both faster and lighter than an equivalent brushed motor, while experiencing less friction, remaining more efficient and less susceptible to heat related failures.

Brushless motors have 3 or even 4 power wires, and they will not operate at all without a brushless [[ESCs|electronic speed controller (ESC)]]. This specialized circuit synthesizes the rotating magnetic field by sending waves of power into pairs of wires in sequence. By altering which wires are used, the ESC can also reverse the motor; by adjusting the shape of the waves, it can change the speed and torque of the motor. This gives a builder many options, but can make setup of brushless motors very complicated.

An ESC needs to support the right type of motor, as well as suitable current and voltage rating.

==Sensorless==
Sensorless motors have only power wires. They are generally used on flying drones and lower weight class robots as they are simpler and require less wiring.

When using sensorless motors with an inertial load (drive motors, weapon motors) you may experience a twitching or jerking motion or vibration at low speeds. This is known as cogging, and is most noticeable when the motor is connected to a low-ratio gearbox, or has no gearbox at all.

==Sensored==
Some brushless motors include a shaft position sensor (usually built-in), and have an extra connector or cable to connect the sensor to an ESC made for sensored motors. Feedback from this sensor helps the firmware in the ESC determine exactly how much power is required to start the motor and maintain the exact speed or torque you want to use, even with a heavy load such as a weapon bar or disc. This also opens up possibilities for combat-specific modifications. For example, with specialized programming, an ESC with sensor feedback could determine when a weapon motor hit or jam has occurred, temporarily limit power output after the event (for the safety of the ESC and motor windings), and attempt to re-power the motor a few moments later after the encounter is over.

==Motor torque considerations==
Drone propellers encounter little air resistance when first started, and are also extremely light. For this market, product designers have made smaller, lighter ESCs and motors that run on the same voltage as other models, but deliver less start-up torque. Keep in mind that if used for drive motors, these may not accelerate quickly, or may perform at lower speeds than expected. They often have difficulty starting when a heavier spinning weapon is attached; you will see many fights lost when a spinner couldn't start up their weapon.

This can potentially be fixed by using a sensored motor or by programming the ESC to deliver a full-power starting pulse to overcome friction and/or inertia.

==Other considerations==
Brushless motors with sensors can be used with sensorless ESCs, (without any of the benefits of having a sensor, since it isn't connected).

There is no standard connector for sensors; keep this in mind before attempting to mix-and-match ESCs and motors.

==Common brushless DC motors==
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Common Small Brushless DC Gearmotors
|-
! Size/Frame !! Diameter !! Source 1 !! Source 2 !! Source 3
|-
| 1104 || 16mm || [https://repeat-robotics.com/buy/mk2/ Repeat Robotics] Repeat Mini Mk2 Planetary || ||
|-
| 1806 || 24mm || [https://www.owobotics.com/product/opbox-mkiv-brushless-drive-gearmotor OwoBotics] OPbox MkIV || [https://robotmatter.com/collections/mercurybox/products/mercurybox RobotMatter] MercuryBox Planetary ||
|-
| 1806 Outrunner || 24mm || [https://www.fingertechrobotics.com/proddetail.php?prod=ft-bl-mega-spark Fingertech] Mega Spark || [https://rectifiedrobotics.com/products/rectified-robotics-brushless-planetary-gearmotor Rectified Robotics] Brushless Planetary ||
|-
| 2004 Inrunner || 24mm ||[https://repeat-robotics.com/buy/max/ Repeat Robotics] Repeat Drive Max Planetary || ||
|-
| 2838 Inrunner || 28mm || [https://www.fingertechrobotics.com/proddetail.php?prod=ft-S2838-2970KV Fingertech] S2838 Beater Bar || ||
|}

=Picking the right motor=
There are tradeoffs between the two motor types so do a little research to determine which is most suitable for you.

[https://robotcombatwiki.com/wiki/Brushed_vs._Brushless Choosing a motor - Brushed or Brushless] 

[https://robotcombatwiki.com/wiki/Speed_Reduction Gear Reduction and Speed] 

[https://robotcombatwiki.com/wiki/Hardening_Motors Making Motors Combat Ready] 

[https://robotcombatwiki.com/wiki/Insect_Class_Motors Insect Class Motors] 

[https://robotcombatwiki.com/wiki/Hobby_and_Feather_Motors Hobby and Feather Class Motors] 

[https://robotcombatwiki.com/wiki/Large_Robot_Motors Large Robot Motors] 

=Going further=
Very few motors on the market anywhere are built to be suitable for high-impact action, particularly as the competition becomes more and more skilled. Check out [[Hardening Motors]] to learn how to take them to the next level.

Hardening Motors

2024-10-06T03:52:43Z

Chklnk: Quality and links check

The shocks and forces that combat robots endure during matches are far higher than in almost any other application. Just as you can pad the internals of your robot with foam, or have well-planned strain relief in your wiring, you can harden motors and make them more robust.

== Reinforcing motor magnets ==
With brushless motors, a common failure is the cracking of the motor's magnets on impact.
Robert Cowan has a great video on how to use glass microspheres and epoxy to strengthen the magnets.

{{#ev:youtube|https://youtu.be/5MFjzSP5Oiw}}
Links are provided by Robert.
*[https://amzn.to/2krib2f Glass Microspheres] 
*[https://amzn.to/2KYWvpB Loctite Heavy Duty Epoxy]
 

== Replacing motor shafts ==
It's not uncommon to reinforce shafts with an additional bearing or pillow block to resist side impacts on the shaft (radial impact). However, many builders have found that the design of the motor itself is a weakness to be overcome. Here's an example:

{{#ev:youtube|https://youtu.be/273xHqf4efQ}}

RobotClasses

2024-09-26T01:15:27Z

Chklnk: /* Construction Restricted Classes */ Tweak Lego section

To keep matches fair, robots compete against others that are in a similar "class." The most common distinction is the weight class. Builders must be aware of which classes are allowed in the '''[[Events|events]]''' they participate in. Some robot classes are very popular while others are very rare; before you build a 6lb Mantisweight bot be sure that your chosen event runs that weight class.

[[File:Robot_Weight_Classes.jpg|thumb|1 pound Antweight to 60 pound Lightweight]]
=Weight Classes=

Weight class restricts the maximum fighting weight allowed for a robot.

'''Caution:''' Terms such as "Antweight" and "Beetleweight" differ across event regions as shown below.
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Robot Weight Classes
|-
! Class !! [https://sparc.tools/ SPARC] (USA) !! [https://www.fightingrobots.co.uk/ FRA] (UK) !! Special
|-
| Fleaweight || 75g || -- || --
|-
| Fairyweight || 150g || -- || --
|-
| Antweight || 1lb || 150g (0.33 lb) || --
|-
| Beetleweight || 3lb || 1.5kg (3.3 lb) || --
|-
| Mantisweight || 6lb || -- || --
|-
| Hobbyweight || 12lb || -- || Also [https://www.nhrl.io/ NHRL]
|-
| Dogeweight || 15lb || -- || [https://gonrl.org/ National Robotics League]
|-
| Featherweight || 30lb || 13.6kg (30lb) || --
|-
| Lightweight || 60lb || 30kg (66.1 lb) || --
|-
| Middleweight || 120lb || 55kg (121lb) || --
|-
| Heavyweight || 220lb || 110kg (242.5 lb) || --
|-
| TV-Heavyweight || 250lb || -- || [https://battlebots.com/ BattleBots®]
|}

Often weight bonuses will be offered for specific design features. For example, SPARC rules allow for bots to be up to 50% heavier for bots which shuffle instead of roll, or double weight for bots which fully qualify as Non-Wheeled. Likewise, BattleBots heavyweights can currently be up to 500.0 pounds if they can walk using articulated legs, and meet a number of other design criteria.

Weight classes may include size restrictions; for example, 150g Antweight (UK) is generally required to fit within a 100x100x100mm cube. Read the event '''[[Rules|rules]]''' for details.

=Weapon Restricted Classes=
These robot classes align with an existing weight class, but have further restrictions on what [[Weapons|weapons]] can be used as well as other possible restrictions on things like using ground-scraping wedges. These are often chosen for events where they don't have an arena that can safely contain a full-combat robot; for example, spinning weapons may be forbidden, or limited in kinetic energy.

Before entering this type of competition, please read your event's rules to understand the restrictions.

==Non-Destructive Class==
Robots in non-destructive classes are not allowed to use saws, piercing weapons, fire, etc. to damage other bots. Flipping, throwing, and impact damage are permitted. There is normally a pit available so that robots without active weapons (wedges) can knock their opponents out of the arena. This is ideal for builders who don't want their creations so easily destroyed.

Other classes in the same event may be labeled "destructive" for clarity.

==Sportsman Class==
Robots qualifying for Sportsman class according to SPARC rules must have an active weapon. Wedges may be restricted in number or type. Spinning weapons are limited in tip speed except when the tooth pitch is fine enough to qualify them as saws or saw-like weapons; drills are also permitted. These rules, as well as any additional restrictions that may apply, serve to limit weapon energy and force, and therefore limit damage to the arena and injury to participants and the audience. Event rules may vary according to the arena itself, and must be studied by all competitors in this class.

=Construction Restricted Classes=
These classes place restrictions on construction materials and methods.

==Plastic Ant==
In an effort to make robot building more accessible the '''[[Plastic_Antweights|plastic antweight]]''' class was started by '''[https://westernalliedrobotics.com Western Allied Robotics]'''. These robots are primarily 3d printed but can be fabricated out of approved plastics. The robot class became popular and the rules were adopted by '''[https://sparc.tools/ SPARC]'''.

==Termiteweight==
There are kits to construct combat robots from laser-cut wood pieces. They have all the parts needed to construct the robot and the transmitter, but no spares in case of damage. This type of bot is humorously known as "termite weight," and while they could in theory be entered into organized competition in the 1lb class, they have many serious disadvantages compared to normal 1lb opponents, such as plastic motor gears, lower battery capacity, and slower battery charging (or non-rechargeable batteries). Termite kits are fun, but are unlikely to succeed against more robust bots.

==Lego==
You can also build combat robots with Lego® bricks, motors, and remote controls. (Select non-Lego components such as BuWizz parts may be permitted.) Brick fan and builder community events such as BrickFair showcase Lego combat bots with most of the common combat robot weapons, each designed with structures for optimal defense against hard impacts.

These events have their own rules (for example, the BattleBricks rules, or the CRBL or '''[https://discord.com/invite/yyZHyqXS8M Combat Robotics Brick League]''' rules). Since weight classes, weight bonuses, parts selection, etc. are so different, and because they are unlikely to survive an encounter with a regular combat robot of a similar weight, these won't be covered in this wiki.

=Technology Restricted Classes=

==Autonomous==
This very unusual restriction requires builders to compete with robots that can find their opponents, drive themselves where needed, and make their own decisions about how to attack. Remote control of the robot is not allowed while the match is in progress. This can be done with simple sensors that cause the robot to travel all over the area and attack whatever they bump into. It is more effective using open-source machine vision, combined with either basic algorithms, machine learning, or even AI. Robotic mapping can be used to either use or avoid the arena boundaries to best effect.

=Historic Weight Classes=
120 lb was the competition class for high school and collegiate educational program '''BattleBots IQ'''. Later the program added a 15 lb Mini Class bot competition; 120 lb became Large Class.

Heavyweight bots have historically varied from 100-110kg, and there was once a 340 pound Super Heavyweight Battlebots class.

'''[https://robotwars.fandom.com/wiki/Weight_Classes This article]''' covers much of the history of weight classes in robot combat.

'''[https://www.teamdelta.com/roboglad/index.html Learn about the original 1999 Lego Robogladiators]''' from Dan at Team Delta.

Robot Combat League

2024-09-25T03:21:03Z

Chklnk: Created history section

''Note: This article is not about the 2013 TV show of the same name.''

The '''[https://robotcombatleague.net/ Robot Combat League]''' is a non-profit whose mission is to promote STEM and design and fabrication skills through the exciting sport of Robot Combat.

==How RCL works==
Robot Combat League is a national robot competition federation, not an official organizing body for Robot Combat. Launched in March 2022, it draws competitors from local events in the USA to participate at a national level. Although most local events in the League use the '''[https://sparc.tools/ SPARC]''' rule set or some variant, every event participating in the league is independent and can run their event as they see fit, so long as they fit into a very broad set of guidelines and agree to use the League event results tracking system that will help determine which bots are the top competitors in the USA. Highly ranked bots will be considered candidates for the annual Robot Combat League competition.

==Qualifying weight classes==
As of 2022, ranks are calculated for the most popular weight classes: 150g, 1lb, 1lb Plastic, 3lb, 12lb, 30lb, and 30lb Sportsman robots. If more [[RobotClasses|weight classes]] become popular and events want to include them in the League, the ranked classes may be expanded.

==Determining points and rankings==
Robots earn points by how highly they place at events they participate in. A robot's season total is taken from their top 3 - highest point events, provided there are at least 5 competitors in the same weight class competing.

Points are determined by how well a robot places in a competition, and is weighted by the number of robots competing. The exact calculations to determine a robots score can be '''[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1GGMDljRZXsq9HCCjCAIsGpup90LLsPtqhkUiPwJRPWY/edit#gid=0 viewed on this calculator]'''.

==League season==
The season starts the first day of March and ends on the last day of February. Competitions in this time period are considered qualifiers for the next event. With the 2022 season being the first, adjustments to the season dates may be made if needed. Event data prior to March 2022 isn't complete, so take historical rankings with a grain of salt.

==Competition history==
====2023====
The first season consisted of 98 local events and ran from March, 2022 to February, 2023. The Robot Combat League National Championship '''[https://www.robotcombatevents.com/events/853 first competition]''' took place May, 2023 in Seattle, Washington. Since an appropriate arena was not available for this event, 30lb destructive bots did not compete in 2023.

====2024====
Challengers for the '''[https://www.robotcombatevents.com/events/1250 April, 2024 National Championship]''' in San Jose, California were drawn from 126 qualifying events. This event was co-located with Robogames, a prominent west coast convention and series, and 30lb full-combat bots were added.

====2025====
The next championship is anticipated to be in Orange County, California in May, 2025.

==Why the Robot Combat League doesn't use the SPARC Botrank system==
Although the old Botrank system made an attempt at tracking how well robots performed, their system had several shortcomings.
* Botrank scores were greatly influenced by the number of events a bot has competed in; bots that competed a lot were favored over those that placed highly in events. This led to situations where a bot that competed and performed 'OK' in a half dozen events would be ranked higher than a robot that competed in and won two events.
* Forfeits in events were found to be inconsistently reported, leading to errors in ranking.
* Botrank rankings were adjusted based on an 18-month rolling time period. While this captures recent performance well, having a moving period where rankings would be set made calculations of seasonal rank difficult to evaluate.
* Botrank didn't have a way to disambiguate robots with the same name. Common robot names like 'Hazard' made the results unreliable.

==Robot Combat League Ranks==
The [https://www.robotcombatevents.com/types Robot Combat League bot ranking page] is updated periodically and can be filtered by year.

RobotClasses

2024-07-09T04:36:30Z

Chklnk: /* Lego */ Quick rewrite +CRBL

To keep matches fair, robots compete against others that are in a similar "class." The most common distinction is the weight class. Builders must be aware of which classes are allowed in the '''[[Events|events]]''' they participate in. Some robot classes are very popular while others are very rare; before you build a 6lb Mantisweight bot be sure that your chosen event runs that weight class.

[[File:Robot_Weight_Classes.jpg|thumb|1 pound Antweight to 60 pound Lightweight]]
=Weight Classes=

Weight class restricts the maximum fighting weight allowed for a robot.

'''Caution:''' Terms such as "Antweight" and "Beetleweight" differ across event regions as shown below.
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Robot Weight Classes
|-
! Class !! [https://sparc.tools/ SPARC] (USA) !! [https://www.fightingrobots.co.uk/ FRA] (UK) !! Special
|-
| Fleaweight || 75g || -- || --
|-
| Fairyweight || 150g || -- || --
|-
| Antweight || 1lb || 150g (0.33 lb) || --
|-
| Beetleweight || 3lb || 1.5kg (3.3 lb) || --
|-
| Mantisweight || 6lb || -- || --
|-
| Hobbyweight || 12lb || -- || Also [https://www.nhrl.io/ NHRL]
|-
| Dogeweight || 15lb || -- || [https://gonrl.org/ National Robotics League]
|-
| Featherweight || 30lb || 13.6kg (30lb) || --
|-
| Lightweight || 60lb || 30kg (66.1 lb) || --
|-
| Middleweight || 120lb || 55kg (121lb) || --
|-
| Heavyweight || 220lb || 110kg (242.5 lb) || --
|-
| TV-Heavyweight || 250lb || -- || [https://battlebots.com/ BattleBots®]
|}

Often weight bonuses will be offered for specific design features. For example, SPARC rules allow for bots to be up to 50% heavier for bots which shuffle instead of roll, or double weight for bots which fully qualify as Non-Wheeled. Likewise, BattleBots heavyweights can currently be up to 500.0 pounds if they can walk using articulated legs, and meet a number of other design criteria.

Weight classes may include size restrictions; for example, 150g Antweight (UK) is generally required to fit within a 100x100x100mm cube. Read the event '''[[Rules|rules]]''' for details.

=Weapon Restricted Classes=
These robot classes align with an existing weight class, but have further restrictions on what [[Weapons|weapons]] can be used as well as other possible restrictions on things like using ground-scraping wedges. These are often chosen for events where they don't have an arena that can safely contain a full-combat robot; for example, spinning weapons may be forbidden, or limited in kinetic energy.

Before entering this type of competition, please read your event's rules to understand the restrictions.

==Non-Destructive Class==
Robots in non-destructive classes are not allowed to use saws, piercing weapons, fire, etc. to damage other bots. Flipping, throwing, and impact damage are permitted. There is normally a pit available so that robots without active weapons (wedges) can knock their opponents out of the arena. This is ideal for builders who don't want their creations so easily destroyed.

Other classes in the same event may be labeled "destructive" for clarity.

==Sportsman Class==
Robots qualifying for Sportsman class according to SPARC rules must have an active weapon. Wedges may be restricted in number or type. Spinning weapons are limited in tip speed except when the tooth pitch is fine enough to qualify them as saws or saw-like weapons; drills are also permitted. These rules, as well as any additional restrictions that may apply, serve to limit weapon energy and force, and therefore limit damage to the arena and injury to participants and the audience. Event rules may vary according to the arena itself, and must be studied by all competitors in this class.

=Construction Restricted Classes=
These classes place restrictions on construction materials and methods.

==Plastic Ant==
In an effort to make robot building more accessible the '''[[Plastic_Antweights|plastic antweight]]''' class was started by '''[https://westernalliedrobotics.com Western Allied Robotics]'''. These robots are primarily 3d printed but can be fabricated out of approved plastics. The robot class became popular and the rules were adopted by '''[https://sparc.tools/ SPARC]'''.

==Termiteweight==
There are kits to construct combat robots from laser-cut wood pieces. They have all the parts needed to construct the robot and the transmitter, but no spares in case of damage. This type of bot is humorously known as "termite weight," and while they could in theory be entered into organized competition in the 1lb class, they have many serious disadvantages compared to normal 1lb opponents, such as plastic motor gears, lower battery capacity, and slower battery charging (or non-rechargeable batteries). Termite kits are fun, but are unlikely to succeed against more robust bots.

==Lego==
You can also build and fight combat robots built using Lego® bricks, motors, and remote controls, particularly within the Lego builders communities. Brick fan events such as BrickFair showcase building Lego bots with many of the common combat robot weapons, each designed with structures for optimal defense against hard impacts.

These events have their own rules (for example, the BattleBricks rules, or the CRBL or Combat Robotics Brick League rules). Since most brick match rules (weight classes, weight bonuses, parts selection, etc.) are so different, and because they are unlikely to survive an encounter with a regular combat robot of a similar weight, these won't be covered in this wiki.

=Technology Restricted Classes=

==Autonomous==
This very unusual restriction requires builders to compete with robots that can find their opponents, drive themselves where needed, and make their own decisions about how to attack. Remote control of the robot is not allowed while the match is in progress. This can be done with simple sensors that cause the robot to travel all over the area and attack whatever they bump into. It is more effective using open-source machine vision, combined with either basic algorithms, machine learning, or even AI. Robotic mapping can be used to either use or avoid the arena boundaries to best effect.

=Historic Weight Classes=
120 lb was the competition class for high school and collegiate educational program '''BattleBots IQ'''. Later the program added a 15 lb Mini Class bot competition; 120 lb became Large Class.

Heavyweight bots have historically varied from 100-110kg, and there was once a 340 pound Super Heavyweight Battlebots class.

'''[https://robotwars.fandom.com/wiki/Weight_Classes This article]''' covers much of the history of weight classes in robot combat.

'''[https://www.teamdelta.com/roboglad/index.html Learn about the original 1999 Lego Robogladiators]''' from Dan at Team Delta.

RobotClasses

2024-07-07T06:52:02Z

Chklnk: Tweak

To keep matches fair, robots compete against others that are in a similar "class." The most common distinction is the weight class. Builders must be aware of which classes are allowed in the '''[[Events|events]]''' they participate in. Some robot classes are very popular while others are very rare; before you build a 6lb Mantisweight bot be sure that your chosen event runs that weight class.

[[File:Robot_Weight_Classes.jpg|thumb|1 pound Antweight to 60 pound Lightweight]]
=Weight Classes=

Weight class restricts the maximum fighting weight allowed for a robot.

'''Caution:''' Terms such as "Antweight" and "Beetleweight" differ across event regions as shown below.
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Robot Weight Classes
|-
! Class !! [https://sparc.tools/ SPARC] (USA) !! [https://www.fightingrobots.co.uk/ FRA] (UK) !! Special
|-
| Fleaweight || 75g || -- || --
|-
| Fairyweight || 150g || -- || --
|-
| Antweight || 1lb || 150g (0.33 lb) || --
|-
| Beetleweight || 3lb || 1.5kg (3.3 lb) || --
|-
| Mantisweight || 6lb || -- || --
|-
| Hobbyweight || 12lb || -- || Also [https://www.nhrl.io/ NHRL]
|-
| Dogeweight || 15lb || -- || [https://gonrl.org/ National Robotics League]
|-
| Featherweight || 30lb || 13.6kg (30lb) || --
|-
| Lightweight || 60lb || 30kg (66.1 lb) || --
|-
| Middleweight || 120lb || 55kg (121lb) || --
|-
| Heavyweight || 220lb || 110kg (242.5 lb) || --
|-
| TV-Heavyweight || 250lb || -- || [https://battlebots.com/ BattleBots®]
|}

Often weight bonuses will be offered for specific design features. For example, SPARC rules allow for bots to be up to 50% heavier for bots which shuffle instead of roll, or double weight for bots which fully qualify as Non-Wheeled. Likewise, BattleBots heavyweights can currently be up to 500.0 pounds if they can walk using articulated legs, and meet a number of other design criteria.

Weight classes may include size restrictions; for example, 150g Antweight (UK) is generally required to fit within a 100x100x100mm cube. Read the event '''[[Rules|rules]]''' for details.

=Weapon Restricted Classes=
These robot classes align with an existing weight class, but have further restrictions on what [[Weapons|weapons]] can be used as well as other possible restrictions on things like using ground-scraping wedges. These are often chosen for events where they don't have an arena that can safely contain a full-combat robot; for example, spinning weapons may be forbidden, or limited in kinetic energy.

Before entering this type of competition, please read your event's rules to understand the restrictions.

==Non-Destructive Class==
Robots in non-destructive classes are not allowed to use saws, piercing weapons, fire, etc. to damage other bots. Flipping, throwing, and impact damage are permitted. There is normally a pit available so that robots without active weapons (wedges) can knock their opponents out of the arena. This is ideal for builders who don't want their creations so easily destroyed.

Other classes in the same event may be labeled "destructive" for clarity.

==Sportsman Class==
Robots qualifying for Sportsman class according to SPARC rules must have an active weapon. Wedges may be restricted in number or type. Spinning weapons are limited in tip speed except when the tooth pitch is fine enough to qualify them as saws or saw-like weapons; drills are also permitted. These rules, as well as any additional restrictions that may apply, serve to limit weapon energy and force, and therefore limit damage to the arena and injury to participants and the audience. Event rules may vary according to the arena itself, and must be studied by all competitors in this class.

=Construction Restricted Classes=
These classes place restrictions on construction materials and methods.

==Plastic Ant==
In an effort to make robot building more accessible the '''[[Plastic_Antweights|plastic antweight]]''' class was started by '''[https://westernalliedrobotics.com Western Allied Robotics]'''. These robots are primarily 3d printed but can be fabricated out of approved plastics. The robot class became popular and the rules were adopted by '''[https://sparc.tools/ SPARC]'''.

==Termiteweight==
There are kits to construct combat robots from laser-cut wood pieces. They have all the parts needed to construct the robot and the transmitter, but no spares in case of damage. This type of bot is humorously known as "termite weight," and while they could in theory be entered into organized competition in the 1lb class, they have many serious disadvantages compared to normal 1lb opponents, such as plastic motor gears, lower battery capacity, and slower battery charging (or non-rechargeable batteries). Termite kits are fun, but are unlikely to succeed against more robust bots.

==Lego==
You can also build and fight combat robots built using Lego® bricks, motors, and remote controls, particularly within the Lego builders communities. Events like BrickCan Bots and BattleBricks showcase building Lego bots with many of the common combat robot weapons, with structures for optimal defense against hard impacts. These events often require the use of official Lego motors, which have plastic gearboxes which are easily broken, so this type of bot is unlikely to survive an encounter with a regular combat robot of a similar weight.

=Technology Restricted Classes=

==Autonomous==
This very unusual restriction requires builders to compete with robots that can find their opponents, drive themselves where needed, and make their own decisions about how to attack. Remote control of the robot is not allowed while the match is in progress. This can be done with simple sensors that cause the robot to travel all over the area and attack whatever they bump into. It is more effective using open-source machine vision, combined with either basic algorithms, machine learning, or even AI. Robotic mapping can be used to either use or avoid the arena boundaries to best effect.

=Historic Weight Classes=
120 lb was the competition class for high school and collegiate educational program '''BattleBots IQ'''. Later the program added a 15 lb Mini Class bot competition; 120 lb became Large Class.

Heavyweight bots have historically varied from 100-110kg, and there was once a 340 pound Super Heavyweight Battlebots class.

'''[https://robotwars.fandom.com/wiki/Weight_Classes This article]''' covers much of the history of weight classes in robot combat.

'''[https://www.teamdelta.com/roboglad/index.html Learn about the original 1999 Lego Robogladiators]''' from Dan at Team Delta.