Strix 2

[dotDominic]

After Strix 1's performance at Insomnia this year, it was clear that the design needed some big upgrades for it to be effective. I was happy with Strix 1's appearance, its durability and its low front wedge, but there are serious flaws which can only be properly fixed with a fresh build. Strix 2 looks quite similar to the first version, but it's pretty much going to be all-new. I'm only recycling a handful of components.

Here is the CAD after spending far too long tinkering about with it.

STRIX 2 NON-BLUR 3.jpg STRIX 2 NON-BLUR 4.jpg STRIX 2 NON-BLUR 2.jpg STRIX 2 NON-BLUR.jpg

These are the most important upgrades:

New Wheels - Definitely the biggest issue with the original was that the black Bearing Boys wheels were pretty awful. They had barely any traction at all which made Strix very sluggish in the arena. The new wheels will be made from large 80mm HDPE rods and use bike tyres for more grip.
New Drive - Originally I thought that the old Argos 12v drills, which I use in both Strix and Venator, would have plenty of speed. Venator used to be one of the faster featherweights at the live shows, but it was pretty outpaced and Cheltenham this year. Have been really impressed with the speed of Barrog and Plastic Fantastic, so I'm going to upgrade to the new model 12v argos drills on 5s.
Custom Linac - So last build I didn't have enough time or experience to make the custom linear actuator. But for this build it's going to be one of the first things I take on. I'll get all the precise gearbox parts properly machined this time so it should actually fit together. Just like before it'll use a brushless Overlander BM600 running on 5s as that had plenty of punch.
More Internal Space: This wasn't an issue in the arena, but the original Strix was awful to work on in the pits as the guts were so cramped in. I've tried to space things out a little bit more this time, with some 3D printed mounts to save space and keep things tidier.

Armour panels are all HDPE, a mix of 20mm, 10mm and 8mm. Front wedge will be 4mm Hardox. I haven't done a weight calculation yet, but considering the original's weight, I suspect Strix 2 will be right up to the limit.

I'm hoping to get Strix 2 finished in time to apply for next year's featherweight champs at Insomnia. Because I'm a bit slow at building these things, I plan on getting most of the parts water jet cut.