X5 "Interceptor" (4xML, 2xSSRM2, XL340)

Essentially the same as my favorite 'Jennerceptor' that Mythweaver posted, just a little cooler and a little more heavily armored. I suppose this is the true 'Fat Jenny'. Just can't jump. Alas nothings perfect.

 

Thanks for posting this one Zero, I am going to run with it as soon as I can afford to buy the XL340. Probably tomorrow morning, I guess you'll know 'cause you'll be there. As you know I've been running the X-5 today with a much slower build (XL300). I love the one I'm running now but I'm excited to run with the faster version. I'm sure this one will be worth a 5*.

Mythweaver

 

When I get around to Cicadas and get an X-5, I'll probably run with something similar to this. I only run Streaks on lights...but IMO the Cicada is a light (despite it's "medium" category). I also only run lights with max rated XL engines, so those 300 XL builds just wouldn't work for me.

 

I consider the Cicada a light as well. It has an identity crisis.

 

Yep...only problem is that with a max-rated XL engine, the Jenner/Raven actually have more tonnage available. Still, t he Cicada is nice, especially if you need to have a medium instead of a light for load-balancing.

 

This is my cash-farming mech of choice. I'm still relatively new, but it's faster than most lights and while it carries the same weapons as a jenner it has more armor and is tougher to core. Definitely excellent at harassing heavies and assaults, especially in city maps or tourmaline desert where you can use the terrain to block return fire as you line up another attack run. Eats lights alive, really the biggest weakness is to LRM fire but even then you're fast enough to get a building between you and the salvo more often than not.

 

When I get LRM sign in my X-5 and am in the open I head straight toward the missiles, but to the side [left or right] just a bit. At the last minute I will pull away from the incoming fire [if I'm on the right I pull right]. Decreasing the distance and the sudden pull away gets you cleanly away every time.h34r:

 

there needs to be a tactics thread for this ^

 

With the mention of the 300XL not doing it for some, I'm really curious. I run this with a 300XL, a BAP, 3 additional heat sinks, and full armor. Tops out at about 134km/h, runs a bit cooler, and locks on a bit faster.
Is the extra ~16km/h worth the difference?

 

Haven't unlocked speed tweak yet so I can't speak to the speeds up in the 140's, but I run a -3m that tops out at 121.5, and an -x5 that tops out at 133.6, and I certainly notice the difference. It's subtle, but it's there.

Still, the weight savings IS substantial on such a small frame

 

To answer the question if the 150kph is worth it. As soon as you encounter a Jenner moving that fast you will see why it can run that fast as well. At 151 you can stick to the rear of a Jenner no matter what engine it has or any light regardless of any engine any of them have. So the difference in speed is the difference between you staying plastered to their rear or they staying plastered to yours with no easy way to shake them. If you are going the same speed it's whoever can outwit the other.

 

If you are interested in Tactics for Light 'Mechs take a look at Michael's post regarding this matter. If you need more information etc...
Ask us specific questions, I'm sure any of us who pilot Lights would be happy to help.

Mythweaver

Post Script: 150+ KPH really makes a noticeable difference to me. The added maneuverability and twist speed make this an excellent hunter.

 

Yes, remember that the faster you go the faster your turning and twist speed is[I don't recall if it is solely speed that defines this or Engine Rating], so it's not just the 16 kph speed jump [which really is handy] you also get increased agility which is invaluable as a 'light' mech.

 

I farmed up the little bit I had left to get the XL340 (I wasn't far off, money-wise already) and gave it a shot... And I have to admit, the difference is subtle at first, but like UntamedZer0 hints at, once I capitalized on it the change was like night and day. I was able to keep behind Heavies to open up their rear before, but now I can -dance- around them. The difference in lock speed is certainly felt, but a little bit of thought before engaging compensates easily. The added nimbleness definitely took some getting used to - but once there I don't think I could go back.

Consider me a convert. Thank you all for your thoughts.

 

There is no replacement for displacement. Speed is life.

Glad you like the speed change. I find myself swapping between this set up and standard SRMs depending on if I have ECM support around or not.

 

We discussed it a bit in TS, but after the May 21 patch I think dropping down to 325 XL (144.8 kph) to pick up a BAP would be well worth it.

 

Yep, I think this will be the preferred loadout after the 21st:
X-5

 

My only suggestion is this. You're only carrying 1 ton of ammo, so put it in the head. If you get hit there, you're dead anyway. The legs have enough internal structure that they can survive a few hits... until the ammo cooks off.

 

Ah, yep. Thanks. Edited loadout.

 

I would much rather have 2 tons of ammo and 11 DHS instead of 1 and 12. For sustained DPS you're looking at 2.75 vs. 2.95, but it gives you double the SSRMs.