Here's a build-it-yourself, remote-controlled robot that's the spitting image of a rhinoceros beetle. Except that evolution hasn't yet endowed the beetle with tank-like caterpillar traction. Still, with its giant front claw, four DC motors, and 8-channel infrared remote control console, this electronic robot can maneuver as nimbly as any SWAT team bomb defusing 'bot, which it also resembles. We've all seen the evening news footage of the police robot with the huge claw gingerly approaching a suspicious duffle bag, which is discovered to be packed with . . . someone's workout clothes. Well, you may not need to detonate any duffle bags, but you'll have a blast maneuvering this RC robot indoors or outside while operating its formidable gripper claw. Buttons on the remote control console move the robot forward, backward, left or right, and the claw can be raised and lowered, opened and closed. Cool!

Anyone with reasonable dexterity will have no trouble building the Kabuto Mushi robot and its remote console. Winner of Creative Child Magazine's "Top Toy of the Year" award in 2007, the kit comes with step-by-step illustrated instructions to ensure enjoyable and successful assembly. In the process the builder will learn the principles of gear structure, battery wiring, motors, electronic circuits, and circuit block diagrams. No soldering is required.

Did you know that a rhinoceros beetle can carry 850 times its own weight on its back? It can. But while this 1.3-lb. robot is strong and all, piling that much weight on its back would only turn it into Kabuto MUSH.

Specifications:

• Tools needed for assembly: wire cutters, long-nose pliers, knife, and small Phillips screwdriver
• Requires four AA and three AAA batteries (not included)
• Recommended for ages 10 and older. Parental supervision recommended.
• WARNING: Contains small parts. Keep away from children under 3 years old!
• Movement: Two motors for caterpillar's traction, one motor for claw elevation, one motor for open/close of claw
• Control: Infrared remote sensor (distance approx. 3m)
• Power source: Main unit AA x 4, controller AAA x 3, batteries not included.
• Remote control: 8 channels.
• Dimensions: Main unit size – 260x170x82mm, Controller size – 135x48x98mm.
• Weight: Main unit – 600g, controller 130g.
• Battery life: Approx. 30 min (continuous operation).

CHOKING HAZARD — Small parts.
Not for children under 3 years.