For any of you which are hesitating about the Raven, thinking there are other lights that can do things the Raven can't...stop it and just get the Raven! The 3L is the single best LRM tag/NARC scout bar none. With the ECM it's hard to detect, the three module slots (+1 master slot) allows a full array of helpful modules including UAV or Arty, the high energy hardpoints in the arms means you can peek with a TAG and still be hard to hit. I have run Jenners, Spiders and Locusts personally and there are possibilities running LRM scouts there too of course. The Jenner K for example is great but no ECM and the hardpoints are unfortunately less ideal. I have seen Commandos but not run them yet so can't fairly compare them but looking at their hardpoints, energy/tag would be in the arms. When NARC is improved, this will be a common sight I think. I alternate with the above, Grimms dual ERLLAS sniper or this PUG drop version: I know the BAP is gimped by the ECM but it still increases your sensor range (I haven't measured but it seems like it does). Together with advanced sensors, target decay and a UAV it's a helluva spotter. Upon master I will likely go Seismic or arty. Played a game yesterday, late, with a pal in a stalker LRM boat on Crimson Strait. We dominated the pass with me climbing, peeking, tagging and him raining death on three mechs. Sweet times.
OH YES ABSOLUTELY TRUE. The reason is that in one match I was in I was getting stormed by the enemy and this bugger came out of nowhere flashing it's laser pointers at me and I was dead by LRMS.
I think "The Snitch" build is a better one than you posted here. I think you need the XL295 if you are going to scout, as lights would hunt you down too fast with that XL255.... just too slow IMO.
The Snitch is a combo scout and laser sniper. given it carries NARC it had to get close to the enemy. It doesn't carry tag or BAP, hence it is a compromise and not a optimized spotter. But sure, if one wants to you can strip the SRMs and put in a bigger engine. Its all taste. I prefer the bite.
After playing for a while and really wanting to keep 2 ER LL as well as throw in a TAG I came up with this build: I still manage 400+ damage a round and now reel in the spotting assists. The TAG does give my position away, so this lowers my damage output, but that is more than covered by the LRM boats I TAG for. Speed is lost a little so you are more vulnerable to light mechs built to hunt lights.
