Recommended basic materials for the device?

[RussianTurtle]

This is my second year in SO and I had Bottle Rocket as a build the first year, so I have little to no experience in building such contraptions. My partner is busy with two other build events so I'm on my own in terms of getting a supply list, at least. We have a general idea of what we want to include in the Rube Goldberg machine but I don't know what we should use for axels, pulleys, levers, etc. What are the basic materials to use?

[goodcheer]

This is my second year in SO and I had Bottle Rocket as a build the first year, so I have little to no experience in building such contraptions. My partner is busy with two other build events so I'm on my own in terms of getting a supply list, at least. We have a general idea of what we want to include in the Rube Goldberg machine but I don't know what we should use for axels, pulleys, levers, etc. What are the basic materials to use?

Basic materials to use can vary widely. You can purchase nice pulleys of all sizes at a hardware store or use something like a spool. (Note: some stores will donate materials for S.O. if you but ask). Levers can be most any material: wood, plastic, metal, etc. with wood probably being the most common choice. One principle we have often found that applies in many S.O. events is: use the smallest object that is able to get the task done. For example, if you can use a popsicle stick lever to complete a certain step, don't use a 2x4 board. You will need space to try to get in all the possible steps for maximum points.

Wheel and axle takes some thought, but we have used fishing line spools as a wheel with a wooden dowel attached as the axle. Good luck.