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UCSC Combat Robotics

Photo of our team members

We are UCSC Combat Robotics, a student-led subteam of Slugbotics founded in 2021. We design, build, and fight combat robots in tournaments both on and off campus.

Our team focuses on hands-on engineering: CAD design, machining, wiring, assembly, and testing. No prior experience is needed—just an interest in building and competing.

What We Build

  • 3-lb beetleweights (fast, destructive, and highly competitive)
  • 1-lb antweights (intro builds for new members through our Plant Workshop)

Robots use standard combat robotics systems:
- Brushless and brushed motors
- ESCs (electronic speed controllers)
- LiPo batteries
- Radio receivers & transmitters (no programming required)
- Armor, weapon systems, and frames designed and manufactured by students

What We Do

  • Build robots from scratch each year
  • Run workshops to teach CAD, machining, soldering, and wiring
  • Travel to competitions across California

Our Robots

Photo of our beetleweight robots
Our beetleweight combat robots, designed and built by UCSC students.

How to Join

  1. Come to an info session at the start of the quarter
  2. Join the Plant Workshop to build your first 1-lb robot
  3. Pick a subteam (mechanical, electrical, or arena/tournament operations)
  4. Help us compete and improve our designs each quarter

Follow us on Instagram, join our Discord, or check Slugbotics.org for updates.

👉 Build. Battle. Repeat. Join UCSC Combat Robotics!