First-Time Combat Robot Builder FAQ

If you're preparing for your first combat robot event, you're probably asking many of the same questions that every new builder asks. This guide covers the most common questions we receive from new competitors and their families.

What happens when I arrive at a competition?

Most events follow a similar process:

1. Check in with event staff.
2. Find your pit table and get set up.
3. Go through safety inspection.
4. Prepare your robot and batteries.
5. Wait for brackets to be released.
6. Attend the driver's meeting if one is scheduled.
7. Get ready for your first match.

For Robot Smashing League (RSL) Events, brackets are often released after safety inspections are complete so we know exactly which robots are present and ready to compete. This ensures only ready robots are included in our brackets.

What is checked during safety inspection?

Safety inspection usually includes:

• Robot weight verification
• Power switch accessibility
• Weapon lock inspection
• Fail-safe testing
• General safety review

Inspectors want to make sure they can safely access your robot, disable it if necessary, and confirm that it will shut down if control is lost.

What is a weapon lock?

A weapon lock is a physical device that prevents a weapon from moving while the robot is being transported, inspected, or handled.

Common weapon lock styles include:

• Pins
• Clamps
• Printed blocks
• Custom locking devices

Every spinning weapon robot should have a secure mechanical lock that cannot easily fall out during transport.

What is fail-safe testing?

Fail-safe testing verifies that your robot stops when communication with the controller is lost.

During testing, organizers may ask you to:

• Spin up your weapon slightly
• Drive the robot continuously in circles
• Turn off the transmitter

The robot should stop safely instead of continuing to drive or spin.

Testing this at home before your event is strongly recommended.

How do I safely power on my robot?

A common safe startup sequence is:

1. Turn on the transmitter.
2. Verify sticks and switches are in safe positions.
3. Power on the robot.
4. Remove the weapon lock.
5. Keep your hands off the robot.

Never remove the weapon lock before the robot is fully powered and under control.

How do I safely power off my robot?

1. Install the weapon lock.
2. Turn off the robot.
3. Turn off the transmitter.

The weapon lock should be back on the robot before you touch or handle it.

Do radio systems interfere with each other?

Modern radio systems are generally very reliable.

Most people pair receivers to specific transmitters before the event. Once properly bound, interference issues are extremely rare. You can bind receivers and controllers at the event as well.

It's still best to complete all receiver setup and testing before arriving at competition.

How much repair time will I have between matches?

Repair times vary by event. Check the specific event. For RSL events we have a minimum time of 20 minutes.

Many builders have:

• 1.5 to 2 hours between early matches
• 20 to 30 minutes during elimination rounds

Because of this, maintainability is just as important as durability.

Practice common repairs before event day.

What spare parts should I bring?

For most first-time competitors, consider bringing:

• Extra batteries
• Spare wheels
• Spare weapon belts
• Spare weapon components
• Extra hardware
• Spare armor panels
• Spare drive motors

If possible, having enough parts to assemble a second robot is ideal. For a more indepth answer check out this article: How Many Spares Should You Bring to a Combat Robot Competition?

Should I bring a spare robot?

Many competitors do.

A spare robot can:

• Reduce repair stress
• Keep you fighting after major damage
• Provide backup components

However, many experienced builders choose to focus on fast repairs instead.Both approaches can be successful.

For a more indepth answer check out this article: How Many Spares Should You Bring to a Combat Robot Competition?

What breaks most often?

The parts most likely to need replacement are usually:

• Weapons
• Weapon motors
• Wheels
• Belts
• Armor panels
• Fasteners

Internal electronics generally survive longer in beginner weight classes unless they are overheated or improperly installed.

What happens if my robot isn't ready for its match?

Most events expect competitors to be ready when called.

Some events allow a postponement that grants additional repair time.

If you are not ready when your match is called, you may need to use your postponement or forfeit the match.

Always keep an eye on the bracket and listen for announcements.

Can parents help with repairs?

Absolutely.

Many family teams operate with:

• A child driver
• A parent pit crew member
• Shared repair responsibilities

Combat robotics is one of the most family-friendly engineering hobbies available.

How do I register for an event?

Registration varies by event. You can check out robotcombatevents.com for list of most upcoming events and learn about registration for that event on the site.

Typically:

• The event will share how to register for that specific event.
• Adults often manage registrations for under age competitors.
• All participants may need to sign waivers.

Always read the event listing carefully for specific instructions.

How do I find other builders near me?

The best places to connect with builders are:

• Local Discord communities
• Regional Facebook groups
• Club meetups
• Competition pit areas

Most builders are happy to answer questions and help newcomers.

Are people willing to share their designs and ideas?

In most cases, yes. Combat robotics is surprisingly open.

Many builders are willing to:

• Show internal robot layouts
• Share lessons learned
• Recommend parts
• Help troubleshoot problems
• Offer repair assistance

The community succeeds because experienced builders help new builders learn.

Should I attend a club meetup before my first competition?

It isn’t required. However, club meetups are one of the best ways to prepare because they allow you to:

• Practice driving
• Test repairs
• Learn safety procedures
• Meet local competitors
• Gain confidence before event day

Many successful competitors spend significant time at local meetups before attending major tournaments.

What's the most important advice for first-time competitors?

Don't focus on winning your first event.

Focus on:

• Passing safety inspection
• Learning the procedures
• Completing your matches
• Practicing repairs
• Meeting other builders

If you leave your first event with more knowledge than you arrived with, you've had a successful day.