Finding an Event Near You
Want to see combat robotics up close (or even compete)? Two great places to find events near you are:
Just search by your city/state and filter by upcoming dates. Before you register (or pack up your robot), always read that event’s full rules carefully, because requirements can vary a lot:
- Confirm the weight class (ex: Antweight/Beetleweight/Fairyweight, etc.),
- Whether multibots are allowed (and what the combined weight limit is), and
- What materials and build limits apply (some events restrict things like certain metals, sharp edges, tip speeds, or specific weapon types).
- Also look for safety requirements like fail-safes, weapon locks, and battery rules, plus important details like arena type, fight format, and check-in times.
Helpful tip: even if you’re just going to watch, the event listing often includes a schedule, venue info, and contact links—so you can plan ahead, learn what bots will be there, and connect with the local builders who can help you get started!
What if I want to start a non-destructive 150g or 1/2 lb tournament near me?
If you want to start a non-destructive 150g (Fairyweight) or ½ lb (Spiderweight) tournament near you, great news—both combat robotics enthusiasts and educators can run their own Turnabot Tournament! Just head to our Turnabot Tournament page to find everything you need to get started, including recommended formats, rules guidance, and helpful resources.
What is the difference between classes?
Fairyweight (150g / ~0.33 lb)
The tiniest combat robots—fast to build, lower-cost, and great for beginners or quick experiments. Usually fought in smaller arenas with lighter impacts.
Spiderweight (0.5 lb / 226g) (up-and-coming class!)
A newer, growing class that’s bigger and tougher than Fairyweights but still lightweight and affordable to compete with. Bonus: In many competitions, two Spiderweights can team up as a multibot in the Antweight division (as long as the combined weight meets the event’s multibot rules).
Antweight (1 lb / 454g)
One of the most popular “starter serious” classes—big enough for real weapons and durable designs, but still manageable for newer builders. Rules vary by event, so always check what weapon types and materials are allowed.
PLANT (Plastic Antweight) (1 lb / 454g)
A special type of Antweight where bots must be built mostly from plastic/approved materials (event rules decide the exact limits). It’s designed to keep the class more affordable, reduce extreme armor builds, and make repairs less painful.
Beetleweight (3 lb / 1.36 kg)
A major step up in size and power—more space for stronger drive systems, thicker armor, and harder-hitting weapons. It’s super exciting to watch, but it’s typically more expensive and demanding to build safely and reliably.
Where does Turnabot fit in?
Turnabot products are built to fit into the most popular beginner-friendly combat robotics pathways—whether you want a ready-to-drive competitive bot, a teachable design platform, or a build-your-own parts kit for a full custom robot.
Turnabots
150g (Fairyweight)
Non-destructive and competition-ready combat robots
Competitive performance in the 150g class
Great for first-time competitors
CAD files are not shared (design is kept protected)
Creatabots
1/2 lb (Spiderweight)
Non-destructive
Simpler design specifically made for teaching build + design skills
Great for classrooms
CAD files are shared, so learners can explore, edit, and improve the design
1 lb Kits (SCAR/SLCR)
Component kits that help you build a custom 1 lb combat robot
Designed for builders who are ready to level up into full design freedom
Use them to build:
- Your own original design, or
- A design shared by other builders in the combat robotics community