Hi all, I've been a huge fan of robot combat for many years now and have finally decided to build my own and take part. After a brief bit of research I've been told that beetleweight is the best category for a beginner to get into. Supposedly antweights are too difficult to meet the low weight limit, featherweights have a really high skill ceiling, and heavyweights are just too expensive. This is fine by me.

What advice would you be able to give me? I'd like to know where I can purchase parts, what sorts of tools and materials are most suitable, and so on.

I have very little experience with anything like this and in the past I've tried to learn more about the basics but find myself getting confused by speed controllers and battery ratings and so on. If possible, a simple explanation of all this would be very useful. Thanks in advance!