RobotWars101

I found a video for a small but powerful lifter.. do something like this but backward

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pY7pwm2blig

One other thing to consider. Most flippers use the properties of class three levers to multiply their speed. This is why bronco or other flippers have there piston mid arm with the fulcrum in the back. For a crusher you may want to think a second class crusher (think nutcracker or nail clippers). Yo...

Another idea would be to use pully mechanical advantage. It would seem easy enough to 3d print a pully with multiple runs and you could multiply you motor power several times... I have no idea how to make this work in a practical sense but its an idea...

"You know, I might just have to accept that at some point. I think I'll test it at 7.4V and see it works, then leave it at that. The price of linear actuators is surprisingly high it seems." You might be able to build your own- its a geared down motor turning a screw rod. A bolt rides on t...

I feel that you are pushing that motor to its limits. Even with all the gearing you are likely getting inefficiency and such throughout the gear and its about maxed out. For a crusher weapon you might want to consider a system that is specifically built for this application- a linear actuators such ...