What is Scythe?
Scythe is a 1lb “Antweight” combat robot built through Combat Ready Robotics during Summer 2025. It features a hammersaw style weapon system, with a vertically spinning blade attached to a moving arm controlled by a servo motor.
Currently, Scythe has two main configurations used for competitions:
- A “full-combat” antweight configuration which features an AR500 steel weapon, water jetted HDPE frame, and polycarbonate covers.
- A plastic antweight, or “Pl-Ant”, configuration with a fully 3D printed PLA chassis and weapon.
Scythe is currently in the prototyping phase of development, with the hope of scaling up the design to a 12lb “Hobbyweight” bot within the next year or two once the concept has been tested on a smaller scale.
You can see more of the design and manufacturing process documented below, as well as the competitions that Scythe has competed in during 2025!
Competitions
Gallery
Design Process
Scythe v1
Scythe’s initial design and the first version to appear in competition!
Key Design Features:
- Belt-driven drive system, powered by two Bot Kits 16mm Brushed DC Gearmotors attached to the front wheels.
- Servo-powered arm mechanism, geared down to optimize torque.
- Asymmetrical AR500 steel blade, powered by a timing belt connected to a Repeat 2822 Brushless Weapon Motor.
- HDPE wheel guards, designed to protect the casted Vytaflex wheels.
Debut Competition: UCR Spring Fling 2025
Scythe v1.1
Upgrades:
- Redesigned mounts to secure spikes in place and prevent high siding.
- 3D printed motor pulley, spike mounts, and wheel hubs out of nylon to prevent fracturing.
- Redesigned weapon pulley to allow more screw clearance.
- Removed HDPE wheel armor to stay within weight limits.
Debut Competition: EVAC Monster Mash 2025
Scythe v1.2 – COMING SOON!
The newest version of Scythe will feature an improved drive system using Repeat Mini Brushed Mk2 gearmotors, along with heat-set threaded inserts to replace self-tapping screws and extend the lifespan of structural components.