What is the weapon of your choice, and Why?

[Alneyan]

I think the PPB comes second (at range 6), just before the Meson BLaster/Telekinetic Projector (something like 2.1/2.0 respectively). At range 1, the APB should be second.

The problem with using Shield Depleters is that you need decent chances to hit for it to work. If you are fighting at range 7 or 8, you will seldom hit, making this strategy not too reliable. If you have good odds of hitting, the APB/SD/APB/SD design is perfectly good however. Shield Disruptors are nice enough, if you can get the research done, as they come later than the first Crystalline ships (with the regular 10 Crystalline Armour).

Contrary to what I thought, high-level of APBs work as well, so long as you get at close range (but Ripper Beams are better in this case). I think the heavy-mounted APB XII is above 150 damage per hit from range 5 or so, which will be enough to actually damage the Crystalline vessel. If you cannot get them in time, then Torpedoes or Baseships (be careful if the enemy is fighting at maximum range) should work out nicely for direct fighting. But I would prefer to avoid fighting altogether in this case, being a most courageous player.