March 2021 Update

It’s been quite an unusual year. With everything going on there’s a lot to talk about as I’ve had some real time to dig in to projects that have needed some attention.

Getting back into robot combat

After a much needed break I’ve started designing and building fighting robots again. This effort started with the un-retirement of Algos, and continued with development of M-80, a modular 3lb bot, Herbot West – ReRaminator, a 12lb rammer with a “hypodermic spike” and Eccentricity, a tubular robot with hand forged attachments. More coming soon including a collaborative project with Wedge Industries. A small preview of that can be seen at the end of this post.

Shop Equipment Design

I’ve been lucky enough to be able to work with the wonderful people at Goat n Hammer on turning a piece of equipment they made into a design that made freely available to anyone that would like to build it. The first prototype has been laser cut by Big Blue Saw and is being built right now. Following the prototype build the design will be updated to reflect any changes that will aid with assembly. Once that’s done the build and all of the drawings necessary to fabricate the equipment will be published and made available at no cost to anyone that wants them.

Merch

With the increased quality of print-on-demand services in recent years it seemed like the time to get some real merch into the world. At the moment the two places you can get Near Chaos gear are our Spring store and our Etsy shop.

Other Recent Work

Recent Projects and Site Rework

As is pretty clear, NearChaos.net has a new look. This is to go along with a new focus. Previously the main focus was robot combat, however my interests have expanded to include a wider range of fabrication projects. Future posts will document new work. For now, here’s a few things I’ve worked on recently.

Mailbox Post
Custom welded mailbox post
J Hooks and Knife In Progress
Forged hooks and seax style knife
Headphone Holder
Hand forged headphone holder
Forge
Home made dual burner forge
Mounted Anvils
Two anvils mounted to custom stands