Development of this build started when I discovered the 'Perfect Panda' build by @Xmar and proposed an optimized version using a cGauss instead of the cUAC20. I put the single steps devolping the final build below into the spoiler for those of you interested as it would dilute this post too much. This thing plays like a typical cGauss + cERLL sniper thanks to the high hardpoints even in the arms. You can start poking at the enemy from as far as 800m. Never forget though the Spirit Bear is meant to be the brawling bear of the lot, so use your engine and MASC to constantly lower the distance so you can use your devastating missile array. Depending on your Gauss skills you can easily use that one in a brawl as well. While I kept an eye on the heat efficiency of the final build you obviously have to keep an eye on your heat if you decide to also use the cERLL close up. Recomended weapon groups & explanations: 1: 2x cERLL (easily switchable to chain fire, so '1' comes kind of naturally) 2+5+6: cGauss (I like the visual indication for the GR) 3: 4x cSRM6+A (grouped) 4: 4x cSRM6+A (chained) (this group is there for an easier heat management in a brawl; sometimes you also might be to 'convince' an enemy your SRM salvo went into his shield side by firing just one and giving him the sound of the impact, only to hit him with 3x cSRM6+A when he twists back in) Development of the build: Spoiler Step 1: discovery of the 'Perfect Panda' build by @Xmar and tinkering with it Step 2: downsizing the LRM launcher Step 3: removing the LRM alltogether, upgade engine to cXL375 Step 4: replacing the cLPL with cERLL, addition of 4th cSRM6+A, addition of SRM ammo
Looks like we're working towards the same final product here Aylek. We've come from different directions but now the only major difference between my "Slave" and your "Two-Face" is that you're taking bigger SRM racks and a smaller engine.
Oh, indeed. I just checked your build, and while it probably works pretty similar, I prefer the massive punch of the quad cSRM6+A. In addition to this the cXL400 is a highly inefficient engine, adding 2 tons to the 395 and SEVEN to the 375 of my build. Those seven tons are a lot and the weight gained leads to a much more impressive loadout while the mech only looses about 4.5 kp/h in the process. Considering the SB mounts MASC this isn't a very relevant difference in my books, but the difference in the alpha strike close up is very noticeable.
I like the fast fire rate of 4's, and I feel the tighter spread somewhat mitigates the overall damage. But I understand, I used to run a 380 XL in my Spirit Bear. I moved back to the 400 because the difference in speed is increased once MASC is activated, and I felt going 90.6 was worth it when I already don't care for SRM6s.
