Getting started in combat robots​

Building and competing in combat robots is the ultimate combination of engineering, team work, strategy, and competition. Months of planning, designing, assembling, and skill are put to the test as you go head-to-head against your opponent in the arena. Builders range from kids working with their parents to literal rocket scientists, and once you're in the arena anything can happen!

Competing at SCAR: Weight Classes

Combat robots range from 150 grams to 250 pounds, and events are held all over the world. Here at SCAR, we host events around the Los Angeles/Orange County area with the following weight classes:

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150g "Fairyweights" - Fairyweights weigh about 1/3rd of a pound, and are the lightest competitors in our line-up. Don't let their name or size fool you; these robots pack a punch with some of the highest power-to-weight ratio competitors in the sport! We host on average 4-6 Fairyweight tournaments per year, and over 100 fairyweights have competed at SCAR since 2023. You can learn more about them here: https://elo.socalattackrobots.com/class/150g
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1lb "Antweights" - One of the first new weight classes after the original "BattleBots" TV show in 2001, "Antweights" have been one of the most popular weight classes in the US for over 20 years. Their popularity is due to the ease-of-access for parts, and they are often considered easier to work on than 150g robots due to their larger size. We host 3-5 Antweight tournaments per year, and over 120 of these bots have competed at SCAR since 2023. You can learn more about them here: https://elo.socalattackrobots.com/class/1lb
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1lb "Plastic Antweights" - Our most popular weight class at SCAR, "Plastic Antweights" or simply "PLANTS" as they are often called, are also 1lb combat robots with a twist; all parts of the robot must be 3D printed. Frame, armor, weapons, they all must be made of plastic! Competitors appreciate the lower barrier to entry of this division as the costly electronics rarely receive damage, and plastic parts may only cost a few dollars to replace. There are some specific rules for this weight class, and we have more information about them in our Competitor Rules and Plastic Ants FAQ. We host 5-7 Plastic Ant tournaments per year, and over 175 of these bots have competed at SCAR since 2023. You can learn more about them here: https://elo.socalattackrobots.com/class/plant
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3lb "Beetleweights" - The 3lb weight class is our most competitive division at SCAR, and it is not uncommon to see world-champion level competitors like Droopy or Supreme Ruler in the bracket. The 3lb class has exploded in popularity in the last few years thanks to NHRL with hundreds of unique robots competing around the nation. We host 4-5 Beetleweight tournaments per year, and over 100 Beetleweights have competed at SCAR since 2023. You can learn more about them here:​https://elo.socalattackrobots.com/class/3lb