Getting Started

Combat robots can be a fun hobby for all ages, but there can also be a danger of injury.  Always have an adult help. Be safe! Use ear, eye, and hand protection.

Step 1 - The Rules

Get familiar with the rules of the event. Official rules can be found on the SPARC website, however the event organizer may change and adapt the rules to more fit the event. It is very important that you know and understand the rules for the event in which you want to compete. The best way to find out about events and competitions is by going to The Builder's Database.

Step 2 - How Heavy?

Decide what weight class you want to be in (the larger the robot the more cost and time involved.) A small 1lb antweight can still be just as fun as a big 240lb heavyweight (not to mention easier on the back.)

Step 3 - Choose your Weapon

Decide what type of weapon you want or if you even want a weapon.

Pushy bot
Wedge
Spinner (vertical, horizontal, full body, etc)
Lifter
Flipper
Hammer
or anything else you can think of.

Getting your weapon to be the most effective as possible will be key. It is a good idea to design, test, and build your weapon thoroughly before building the rest of the robot.

Step 4 - Find the Parts

You probably already have a design in mind, but finding the right parts is the key. There are several places you can get parts.  Below are just a few:

Junkyards (one man's trash is another man's treasure.)

e-bay (would not suggest unless you know the exact part that you are looking for.)

Kitbots (Parts and complete robot kits)

Fingertech

BaneBots

The Robot Marketplace

Step 5 - Stay Updated and Communicate and Don't Give Up!

SPARC Tools is a good place to find the rules and join in on the forum to talk to other builders. There are also several groups on Facebook for Combat Robot Builders.

There are also a couple of books I would recommend by Chris Hannold.

Combat Robot Weapons
Combat Robots Complete

The cost of a small robot will run from a few hundred dollars and the larger robots will run a few thousand dollars and up. 
It took my son and I 6 months to build our first robot which was a 60lb lightweight with a pneumatic flipping arm.

For detailed information on bot building check out the RioBots Tutorial.
 
Help is always near.  Other robot builders are eager to help others get involved in the sport.