[EricH]

Art, <R92> simply states that "The following items are the only permitted materials for use on the MINIBOTS:" [list]

It then lists a long line of various COTS-type items and what sure looks like raw materials. While it nowhere says "COTS" or "Fabricated item", there are strong conclusions that can be drawn from what the terminology says. For example, if the list had said "steel", would you think that screws, nuts, and bolts were legal? I know I wouldn't! But screws, nuts, and bolts are called out in another item on the list, so they are legal.

As it stands right now, both sides have the right answer, because clarification has not come. I'd much rather inspections not turn into lawyering to the effect of, "But it's made of X..." "But it's not on the list..." Somebody needs to ask Q&A. Something simple, like, "I can buy a COTS item that is entirely made of an allowed material from R92. This item is not listed elsewhere in R92. Is it legal?" would probably work quite well for getting a GDC response one way or the other.