Re: ripper beams "Too short ranged, require high propulsion tech to open, and end up being out-powered by APBs anyways.)"
They *aren't* out-powered by APBs actually. On a per weapon basis yes, but remember they're 10kt smaller. 3 ripper beams fit in the same space as 2 APBs, and do 150 vs 130 damage. Not a lot more, but some. I really like sticking Ripper Beams on weapons platforms though. Look ma, 250 damage a turn out to range 9!
And with a +80% to-hit, as well..ships just don't have the same range-enhancing mount; even an APB equipped ship will have to close to range 8..and be really, really outgunned at that range. They will be doing 225 per weapon, I'll be doing 250 and my guns are smaller.
Same thing works well for bases and to a lesser extent sats.
EDIT: oh, and in the Gravitron Hellbore vs WMG argument, remember that the WMG doesn't drop damage and has a +30% to-hit.
Phoenix-D
[ October 10, 2002, 00:34: Message edited by: Phoenix-D ]