Hi Tom,

Good to see another keen builder-to-be
Your best starting bet would be to go for the featherweight (12kg) class. Think of them as an affordable alternative to heavyweights but still perfectly able to pack a punch and feature all the range of weapons the heavyweight class has to offer. Its your choice whether to look out for old bots for sale, pay someone else to build one or to engineer a machine from scratch, Id say the latter is perhaps the more rewarding option, but best of luck with whatever you choose.

You shouldnt let the electronics put you off. Its simply a case of learning by example in most cases. Try to get to a featherweight event http://www.fightingrobots.co.uk/discus/messages/10/10.html?1176477542(check the events list) and see what other people have done with their machines. Also dont hesitate to ask questions on the forum to help you on your way.

As Alex pointed out Ive got a starter package of featherweight components that might be just what youre after to get you on your way. Have peek at my website ~ http://www.gimsonrobotics.com/shop_robot-kits.htmlhttp://www.gimsonrobotics.com/shop_robot-kits.html

All the best, Ewan