OBT Forum
General BattleTech => General Discussion => MechFactory => Topic started by: Takiro on September 13, 2015, 08:29:55 PM
-
Well folks this Blood Spirit version of the Battlemaster went through several different variations until I was satisfied. Originally presented by LordGrayon it has changed a lot. What do you think?
BATTLEMASTER IIC
Mass: 85 tons
Chassis: Hollis Mark X
Power Plant: Clan Standard 255 Fusion Engine
Cruising Speed: 32.4 kph
Maximum Speed: 54 kph
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: None
Armor: Compound Zeta Ferro-Fibrous
Armament: 1 CRG Gauss Rifle
1 Type 22 Extended Range Particle Projection Cannon
2 Type XX “Long Bow†LRM 20-Racks with Artemis IV FCS
2 Series 1 Extended Range Small Lasers
Manufacturer: BattleMech Y3 Facility
Primary Factory: York
Communications System: HartfordCo COM 4000
Targeting and Tracking System: HartfordCo XKZ 1
OVERVIEW
While modularization of the Blood Kite into the Stone Lion was cause for celebration among the Clan some Blood Spirits realized the need for a capable replacement was even more important. Several thought the Awesome IIC would fill that role with the second line units of their Touman. However, this ignored the Warhammer IIC upgrade which thanks to the contract with Diamond Shark was occurring rapidly. Khan Karianna Schmitt authorized her designers to “explore cost effective alternatives to the Blood Kiteâ€. Thankfully the Quicksilver Program had already showcased several different 85 ton BattleMechs which could potentially be effective. Among these was the well respected Battlemaster which had served with distinction since its introduction in 2633. Ironically it had been the fifteenth Quicksilver Trail which was ultimately responsible for the Blood Kite upgrade that a Battlemaster OmniMech was proposed by the Fire Spirit Design Team.
CAPABILITIES
It could be said that little remains from the original Battlemaser except for the Hollis Mark X chassis and internal myomers but this would overlook the electronic systems. Both the HartfordCo COM 4000 communication system and the HartfordCo XKZ 1 targeting system were successfully recreated by their new Goliath Scorpion allies. Rebuilt from existing models featured on the Battlemaster and the Shogun these components had helped make for an effective command ‘Mech. As the lead machine for slower Assault Stars the decision was made to incorporate a smaller standard engine. Replacing the VOX 340 with a 255 Fusion Engine reduced the overall speed and required a smaller gyroscope.
Ample supplies of these lesser power plants from cached machines like the Stalker and Shogun as well as equipment already in production such as the Thor, Kubulai, Thunder Stallion, and Stone Lion allowed designers to allocate more long ranged weaponry in the Battlemaster IIC. Described by some warriors as part Archer and part Warhammer the ‘Mech armament features two big missile systems and two big guns. Two Type XX “Long Bow†LRM 20-Racks with Artemis IV Fire Control along with a CRG Gauss Rifle and Type 22 Extended Range Particle Projection Cannon compose the primary arsenal. Able to deliver distant devastation these major offensive systems are backed up by twin Series 1 Extended Range Small Lasers providing close support.
It is true that the main weaponry of the Battlemaster IIC is advanced and more costly than that of the Blood Kite but because of its stature as a command ‘Mech this extravagance has largely been justified. Drawing these arms from conventional vehicles also mitigated the potential expenditures somewhat. That said the Battlemaster IIC is still pretty cost effective even for the notoriously tightfisted Blood Spirits. To protect their investment thirteen and half tons of Compound Zeta Ferro-Fibrous armor replaced the standard StarGuard armor plating. This sophisticated armor originally used on the Mars Assault Vehicle provides ninety eight percent of maximum protection.
DEPLOYMENT
Ideally suited for activation as a Clan second line BattleMech many were called up from Brian Caches or salvaged from InnerSphere battlefields. The first Battlemaster IICs appeared as Command ‘Mechs for second line formations in Blood Spirit and Fire Mandrill forces spreading quickly from there. Goliath Scorpion assistance enabled their early acquisition of this design which they quickly passed along to Steel Viper. Their possession of Trellshire Heavy Industries on Twycross rapidly made their Battlemaster IIC force the third largest. Diamond Shark and Snow Raven swiftly acquired rights to the design as well proliferating it throughout Clan space. Hell’s Horses acquired the Battlemaster IIC from Kindraa Payne and using the 255 Fusion Engines found on their Thunder Stallion BattleMech have activated a number of these classics. With a number of salvaged InnerSphere machines in their possession the Jade Falcons immediately picked up on it as well. Only Burrock, and to a lesser extent Cloud Cobra, seem to be lagging behind. Preferring their Marauder IIC in just another chapter in their bitter rivalry with the Blood Spirit trails between the two war machines have been intense.
Type: Battlemaster IIC
Technology Base: Clan Level 2
Tonnage: 85 tons
Equipment Mass
Internal Structure: 8.5
Engine: 255 13
Walking MP: 3
Running MP: 5
Jumping MP: 0 0
Heat Sinks: 13 (26) 3
Gyro: 3
Cockpit: 3
Armor Factor: 259 13.5
Internal Structure Armor Value
Head 3 9
Center Torso 27 41 / 11
R/L Torso 18 27 / 9
R/L Arm 14 28
R/L Leg 18 35
Weapons and Ammo: Location Critical Mass
Gauss Rifle Right Arm 6 12
Ammo (Gauss) 16 Right Arm 2 2
ER PPC Left Arm 2 6
LRM 20 Right Torso 4 5
Artemis IV FCS Right Torso 1 1
Ammo (LRM) 18 Right Torso 3 3
LRM 20 Left Torso 4 5
Artemis IV FCS Left Torso 1 1
Ammo (LRM) 12 Left Torso 2 2
ER Small Laser Right Torso 1 .5
ER Small Laser Left Torso 1 .5
-
It's obviously very strong and is a very good Mech, with some devastating firepower.
My one issue is that I have trouble reconciling it with a Battlemaster, particularly when I look at the weapon load out. To me the payload gives me images of an Atlas more than a Battlemaster. I just can't connect the image with the weapons.
Sorry to be critical as I really do like it. It just doesn't shout Battlemaster at me. The config is too far removed.
-
I hear ya bud, it is a very different Battlemaster certainly. The energy weapon version of the Royal Battlemaster did not seem strong enough to me. Also a lot like the Marauder IIC. Plus it is cheaper. Love to get more feedback. ;)
-
I know its been awhile but I've been thinking about doing over the Battlemaster IIC seen above. We have a design coming out that is too similar to this design and Jimmy the Tulip was right while effective. The more I look back at it the more it felt like not a Battlemaster.
So I'd like to ask for your help in a redesign, please submit your version here. A few caveats; design wise you have to keep the Hollis Mark X chassis (8.5 tons) and the VOX 340 Fusion Engine. Fluff wise it has got to be a Blood Spirit BattleMech meant as a Second Line/ Solhama Command Unit.
Thanks in advance!
-
Battlemaster IIC
Mass: 85 tons
Tech Base: Clan
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-C-A
Production Year: 3054
Cost: 9,188,518 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2,017
Chassis: Hollis Mark X Standard
Power Plant: VOX 340 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 43.2 km/h
Maximum Speed: 64.8 km/h
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Compound Alpha with CASE Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
2 Series 7K ER Large Lasers
3 SEP Class SRM-4s
6 Series 1 ER Small Lasers
2 Chi Series Small Pulse Lasers
Manufacturer: BattleMech Y3 Facility
Primary Factory: York
Communications System: HarfordCo COM 4000
Targeting and Tracking System: HarfordCo XKZ 1
Overview:
While modularization of the Blood Kite into the Stone Lion was cause for
celebration among the Clan some Blood Spirits realized the need for a capable
replacement was even more important. Several thought the Awesome IIC would fill
that role with the second line units of their Touman. However, this ignored the
Warhammer IIC upgrade which thanks to the contract with Diamond Shark was
occurring rapidly. Khan Karianna Schmitt authorized her designers to “explore
cost effective alternatives to the Blood Kiteâ€. Thankfully the Quicksilver
Program had already showcased several different 85 ton BattleMechs which could
potentially be effective. Among these was the well respected Battlemaster which
had served with distinction since its introduction in 2633. Ironically it had
been the fifteenth Quicksilver Trail which was ultimately responsible for the
Blood Kite upgrade that a Battlemaster OmniMech was proposed by the Fire Spirit
Design Team.
Capabilities:
Stripping the chassis of cached Battlemasters, Blood Spirit technicans replaced
the armament, armour and coolant systems entirely with lighter and more compact
Clan technology, adding an anti-missile system. This version wasn't entirely
satisfactory to the Khans however and the Merchant Factor pointed out that it
depended on access to Extended Range PPCs and the anti-missile system, both of
which were in short supply for their Clan.
After a series of tests to explore alternatives, the right-arm's PPC has been
replaced with a pair of Extended Range Large Lasers of the reliable 7K model
that's served on the Blood Kite. The Short-Range Missile system was doubled up
and finally replaced entirely with three SEP models.
The new Battlemaster relies entirely on the right-arm for long range firepower
intended for use as the 'Mech closes to its preferred point-blank range where
short-range missiles and small lasers can exploit damaged armour.
To ensure reaching this close range, the new armour layers the chassis in
Compound Alpha ferrofibrous plating, a formula readily available across the
clans.
Battle History:
The Battlemaster IIC saw its combat debut against Clan Burrock when the Clan
tried a pre-emptive trial to claim the first prototypes from their bitter
rivals. A bold bid by Star Captain Til Winson saw him piloting a fresh from the
MechWorks BattleMaster IIC against a Marauder IIC and a point of Elementals.
Luring the Elementals into the close confines of the facility loading yard,
Winson powered up the Battlemaster suddenly from where it was hidden behind two
cargo containers and ambushed the point, killing four of them in his first
salvo.
Having crushed the last Burrock Elemental underfoot after they reported his
location, the Star Captain used his greater speed to circle the facility and
caught the Marauder IIC from behind as it took up a firing position overlooking
the loading yard. As technicans from the plant cheered, Winson's fire ripped
into the reactor shielding of his oppenent, crippling its ability to manuever
or return fire effectively.
While the Maruader IIC was claimed as isorla, it is believed that Winson
refused to accept the Burrock's surrender and executed him personally for
incompetence in failing to support the Elementals more closely.
Deployment:
Ideally suited for activation as a Clan second line BattleMech many were called
up from Brian Caches or salvaged from InnerSphere battlefields. The first
Battlemaster IICs appeared as Command ‘Mechs for second line formations in
Blood Spirit and Fire Mandrill forces spreading quickly from there. Goliath
Scorpion assistance enabled their early acquisition of this design which they
quickly passed along to Steel Viper. Their possession of Trellshire Heavy
Industries on Twycross rapidly made their Battlemaster IIC force the third
largest. Diamond Shark and Snow Raven swiftly acquired rights to the design as
well proliferating it throughout Clan space. With a number of salvaged
Inner Sphere machines in their possession the Jade Falcons immediately picked up
on it as well.
================================================================================
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard 130 points 8.50
Engine: Fusion Engine 340 27.00
Walking MP: 4
Running MP: 6
Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks: Double Heat Sink 23(46) 13.00
Heat Sink Locations: 1 CT, 2 LT, 3 RT, 1 LA, 1 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL
Gyro: Standard 4.00
Cockpit: Standard 3.00
Actuators: L: SH+UA+LA+H R: SH+UA+LA+H
Armor: Ferro-Fibrous AV - 239 12.50
Armor Locations: 1 HD, 2 RT, 2 LA, 2 RA
CASE Locations: LT 0.00
Internal Armor
Structure Factor
Head 3 9
Center Torso 27 40
Center Torso (rear) 12
L/R Torso 18 28
L/R Torso (rear) 8
L/R Arm 14 25
L/R Leg 18 28
================================================================================
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 ER Small Lasers RT 4 2 1.00
(R) ER Small Laser RT 2 1 0.50
2 ER Small Lasers LT 4 2 1.00
(R) ER Small Laser LT 2 1 0.50
3 SRM-4s LT 9 3 3.00
2 ER Large Lasers RA 24 2 8.00
2 Small Pulse Lasers LA 4 2 2.00
@SRM-4 (25) LT - 1 1.00
Free Critical Slots: 6
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 8 Points: 20
4 7 7 2 0 4 0 Structure: 7
Special Abilities: CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, SRM 1/1/0
-
Very nice drak, any other challengers??
-
I'll have a go tomorrow though I like both above versions
-
I'll have a go tomorrow though I like both above versions
Agreed
-
Looking forward to it men! ;)
-
Here we go something that honours where it came from and embraces the advances of Clan tech
Battlemaster IIC
Mass: 85 tons
Tech Base: Clan
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: All Eras (non-canon)
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-D-C-A
Production Year: 0
Cost: 10,079,293 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2,101
Chassis: Holly Mark X Standard
Power Plant: VOX 340 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 43.2 km/h
Maximum Speed: 64.8 km/h
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armour: Compound Zeta Ferro Fibrous Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
1 Long Shot LRM-15 w/ Artemis IV FCS
1 Spirit Type 10 LB 10-X AC
1 Snappy Streak Streak SRM-6
1 Pulsar Type 3 Medium Pulse Laser
1 Series 12 ER Medium Laser
2 Pulsar Type 2 Small Pulse Lasers
1 Hidden Sight ECM Suite
Manufacturer: Clan Blood Spirit
Primary Factory: Y3 York
Communications System: HartfordCo COM 4000
Targeting and Tracking System: HartfordCo XKZ 1
Overview:
The Battlemaster IIC was developed as a leadership model for their second-line
forces as part of the Quicksilver program to revitalize their BattleMech
forces.
Capabilities:
The Battlemaster IIC has the same chassis as the original BattleMech and
maintains the same speed with a 340 standard engine covered in thirteen tons of
armour the BattleMech is highly durable.
When it came to arming the Battlemaster IIC the Blood Spirits took the
surprising step of arming the vessel primarily with an class 10 LB-X autocannon
which takes up most of the right arm. This weapon like the original
Battlemaster's particle cannon is carried like a handheld weapon meaning that
it can be detached. In a strange step the ammunition is fed from ammunition
bins kept in the shoulder and with armoured belts running along outside of the
arm. If the autocannon is detached then the ammunition can also be dumped.
Supporting the autocannon is a six-pack streak short range missile launcher for
close range firepower and a fifteen-tube long range missile launcher for use
while closing this launcher is supported by an Artemis FCS, an extended range
medium laser, a single medium pulse laser and a pair of small pulse lasers.
Finally twelve double heat sinks and an ECM suite round out the assault
BattleMech's firepower.
Battle History:
To date there are two known examples of this type of BattleMech in operation
with Clan Blood Spirit with more planned. So far the Blood Spirits have
restricted this BattleMech to internal Trials of Possession.
Deployment:
There are plans to deploy this BattleMech with all second line forces of the
Blood Spirits as well as open the BattleMech up to trade in the future.
Variants:
As part of the Quicksilver Program there are a few variants of this BattleMech
in development as the Blood Spirits work towards narrowing down on a
configuartion worth manufacturing.
Additional:
Historical Note (3145) - It is interesting to note that the Battlemaster's
exposed ammunition feed was the first to have such a feature. This was
followed by multiple designs that followed in 3080 and in the Dark Age-era.
================================================================================
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard 130 points 8.50
Engine: Fusion Engine 340 27.00
Walking MP: 4
Running MP: 6
Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks: Double Heat Sink 12(24) 2.00
Gyro: Standard 4.00
Cockpit: Standard 3.00
Actuators: L: SH+UA+LA+H R: SH+UA+LA+H
Armour: Ferro-Fibrous AV - 249 13.00
Armour Locations: 1 CT, 1 LT, 1 RT, 1 LA, 1 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL
CASE Locations: RT, RA 0.00
Internal Armour
Structure Factor
Head 3 9
Center Torso 27 40
Center Torso (rear) 10
L/R Torso 18 27
L/R Torso (rear) 9
L/R Arm 14 26
L/R Leg 18 33
================================================================================
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ECM Suite HD 0 1 1.00
ER Medium Laser CT 5 1 1.00
Medium Pulse Laser RT 4 1 2.00
Streak SRM-6 LT 4 2 3.00
LRM-15 LT 5 2 3.50
Artemis IV FCS LT - 1 1.00
LB 10-X AC RA 2 5 10.00
2 Small Pulse Lasers LA 4 2 2.00
@Streak SRM-6 (15) RT - 1 1.00
@LRM-15 (8) RT - 1 1.00
@LB 10-X (Cluster) (10) RA - 1 1.00
@LB 10-X (Slug) (10) RA - 1 1.00
Free Critical Slots: 21
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 8 Points: 21
4 5 5 2 0 4 0 Structure: 7
Special Abilities: ECM, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, IF 1, FLK 1/1/1
-
Different, anyone else like to try their hand??
-
I did a BLR-IIC a while ago, but it doesn't fit the requirements you have. Mine's Endo/XL, and it's a Jade Falcon/Steiner machine from the Pandora factory (depending on who owns it at the time) rather than a Blood Spirit machine.
Tho I am feeling a bit of inspiration for one with a bunch of Heavy Lasers. What era is your BLR-IIC supposed to be from, tho? Golden Century? Invasion? Just pre-Reaving?
-
Invasion my friend, 3054 before Heavy Lasers so no go on that. Also remember your hands our tied to a standard chassis (8.5 tons) and the VOX 340 Fusion Engine. Fluff wise it has got to be a Blood Spirit BattleMech meant as a Second Line/ Solhama Command Unit.
-
A challenge I missed? I'll get on this when I get home from work.
-
You haven't missed it, yet!
-
Rising to the challenge, I give you not one, but
three four designs for your viewing pleasure. So, here we go.
Battlemaster IIC
Battlemaster IIC
Mass: 85 tons
Tech Base: Clan
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-C-A
Production Year: 3070
Cost: 9,428,093 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2,279
Chassis: Unknown Standard
Power Plant: Unknown 340 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 43.2 km/h
Maximum Speed: 64.8 km/h
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Unknown Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
1 Large Pulse Laser
1 LRM-20 w/ Artemis IV FCS
4 Medium Pulse Lasers
2 Small Pulse Lasers
2 Machine Guns
Manufacturer: Unknown
Primary Factory: Unknown
Communications System: Unknown
Targeting and Tracking System: Unknown
Overview:
Clan Bloos Spirit, lacking the production resource of many of the other Clans,
needed to find new way to bring modern weapons to the battlefield. Te answer
were hidden in their few remaining caches of Star League era Battlemechs and
vehicles. In conjunction with the IlKhan's new Quicksilver directive, the Blood
Spirit Khan ordered the Clan's Scientist Caste to find new ways to bring old
assets into the new era.
The Scientist Caste jumped to the task and started work on several platforms,
but chief among them was the one assault-class Bqttlemech they had more of than
any other. Given the Clan's lack of resources, it was decided to make no
changes to the chassis or the powerplant, as any change would be cost
prohibitive. Four teams were established to come up with a new way of using
the Battlemaster. The one thing common among all designs is the replace of the
single heat sinks with double heat sinks and upgrading the standard armor to
ferro-fibrous armor. Given the lessons learned by the invading Clans, the scientists
were also tasked to make use of whatever technology was available to the Clan.
The first team set its course on designing a long-range fire support Mech capable
of both direct and indirect fire support. To accomplish this they stripped out
the old SRM-6 launcher and replaced it with an Artemis IV-LRM-20 launcher. The
PCC is replaced by a large pulse laser. The forward firing medium lasers have
been upgraded with pulse technology, while the rear firing lasers are replaced
with small pulse lasers. Two tons of ammunition feed the LRM launcher while
fifteen double heat sinks are mounted to manage the heat.
================================================================================
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard 130 points 8.50
Engine: Fusion Engine 340 27.00
Walking MP: 4
Running MP: 6
Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks: Double Heat Sink 15(30) 5.00
Heat Sink Locations: 2 RT
Gyro: Standard 4.00
Cockpit: Standard 3.00
Actuators: L: SH+UA+LA+H R: SH+UA+LA+H
Armor: Ferro-Fibrous AV - 239 12.50
Armor Locations: 1 CT, 1 LT, 1 RT, 1 LA, 1 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL
CASE Locations: LT, LA 0.00
Internal Armor
Structure Factor
Head 3 9
Center Torso 27 37
Center Torso (rear) 15
L/R Torso 18 26
L/R Torso (rear) 10
L/R Arm 14 25
L/R Leg 18 28
================================================================================
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 Medium Pulse Lasers RT 8 2 4.00
(R) Small Pulse Laser RT 2 1 1.00
2 Medium Pulse Lasers LT 8 2 4.00
LRM-20 LT 6 4 5.00
Artemis IV FCS LT - 1 1.00
(R) Small Pulse Laser LT 2 1 1.00
Large Pulse Laser RA 10 2 6.00
2 Machine Guns LA 0 2 0.50
@LRM-20 (Artemis) (12) LT - 2 2.00
@MG (1/2) (100) LA - 1 0.50
Free Critical Slots: 18
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 8 Points: 23
4 7 6 3 0 4 0 Structure: 7
Special Abilities: CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, IF 2
Battlemaster IIC 2
BattlemasterIIC 2
Mass: 85 tons
Tech Base: Clan
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-D-A
Production Year: 3070
Cost: 11,426,093 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2,797
Chassis: Unknown Standard
Power Plant: Unknown 340 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 43.2 km/h
Maximum Speed: 64.8 km/h (86.4 km/h)
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Unknown Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
1 ER PPC
2 Streak SRM-6s
4 ER Medium Lasers
4 ER Small Lasers
Manufacturer: Unknown
Primary Factory: Unknown
Communications System: Unknown
Targeting and Tracking System: Unknown
Overview:
The second team chose to stay closer to the original Battlemaster by retaining
the SRM-6 as its primary missile weapon and utilizing a new ER PPC as the
primary energy weapon. Given the technological advances of the past two
centuries, it was decided to upgrade the SRM-6 with Streak and to mount two of
them in the place of the original single launcher. This gives the Battlemaster
an unprecedented short range firepower advantage. Teaming these Streak
launchers with a quartet of extended medium range medium lasers would make this
version of the Battlemaster a dangerous foe.
Long-ranged firepower comes solely from the ER PPC mounted in the right arm,
which should be enough to allow it to close with the enemy and bring its
shorter ranged weapons to bear. Once it gets close enough it bring its last
weapon to bear, the MASC unit mounted in its left torso. Capable of giving the
Mech a timely need in a burst of speed, the MASC unit comes as surprise to it
foe.
================================================================================
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard 130 points 8.50
Engine: Fusion Engine 340 27.00
Walking MP: 4
Running MP: 6 (8)
Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks: Double Heat Sink 17(34) 7.00
Heat Sink Locations: 1 LT, 2 RT, 1 RA
Gyro: Standard 4.00
Cockpit: Standard 3.00
Actuators: L: SH+UA+LA+H R: SH+UA+LA+H
Armor: Ferro-Fibrous AV - 239 12.50
Armor Locations: 1 CT, 1 LT, 1 RT, 1 LA, 1 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL
CASE Locations: LT 0.00
Internal Armor
Structure Factor
Head 3 9
Center Torso 27 37
Center Torso (rear) 15
L/R Torso 18 26
L/R Torso (rear) 10
L/R Arm 14 25
L/R Leg 18 28
================================================================================
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 ER Medium Lasers RT 10 2 2.00
(R) ER Small Laser RT 2 1 0.50
MASC RT - 3 3.00
2 ER Medium Lasers LT 10 2 2.00
ER Small Laser LT 2 1 0.50
2 Streak SRM-6s LT 8 4 6.00
ER PPC RA 15 2 6.00
2 ER Small Lasers LA 4 2 1.00
@Streak SRM-6 (30) LT - 2 2.00
Free Critical Slots: 13
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 8 Points: 28
5 6 6 2 0 4 3 Structure: 7
Special Abilities: CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
Battlemaster IIC 3
BattlemasterIIC 3
Mass: 85 tons
Tech Base: Clan
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-C-A
Production Year: 3070
Cost: 9,813,818 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2,418
Chassis: Unknown Standard
Power Plant: Unknown 340 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 43.2 km/h
Maximum Speed: 64.8 km/h
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: 120 meters
Armor: Unknown Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
1 Large Pulse Laser
2 Medium Pulse Lasers
1 LRM-10
2 ER Medium Lasers
1 SRM-4
2 ER Small Lasers
1 Anti-Missile System
Manufacturer: Unknown
Primary Factory: Unknown
Communications System: Unknown
Targeting and Tracking System: Unknown
Overview:
The third team took a slightly more radical approach by giving the Battlemaster
added mobility through the application of jump jets. As far as armamnt goes, a
more generalist approach was taken by having a solid mix of both missile and
energy weapons. A large pulse laser and an LRM-10 provide the long range
firepower, while an SRM-4 and a variety of lasers provide the short, blunt end
of the proverbial stick. For added protection an Anti-Missile System is mounted
to knock down incoming missiles.
================================================================================
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard 130 points 8.50
Engine: Fusion Engine 340 27.00
Walking MP: 4
Running MP: 6
Jumping MP: 4 Standard
Jump Jet Locations: 2 CT, 1 LT, 1 RT 4.00
Heat Sinks: Double Heat Sink 16(32) 6.00
Heat Sink Locations: 1 LT, 2 RT
Gyro: Standard 4.00
Cockpit: Standard 3.00
Actuators: L: SH+UA+LA+H R: SH+UA+LA+H
Armor: Ferro-Fibrous AV - 239 12.50
Armor Locations: 1 LT, 2 RT, 1 LA, 1 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL
CASE Locations: LT, RT 0.00
Internal Armor
Structure Factor
Head 3 9
Center Torso 27 37
Center Torso (rear) 15
L/R Torso 18 26
L/R Torso (rear) 10
L/R Arm 14 25
L/R Leg 18 28
================================================================================
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Anti-Missile System HD 1 1 0.50
Medium Pulse Laser RT 4 1 2.00
ER Medium Laser RT 5 1 1.00
Medium Pulse Laser LT 4 1 2.00
ER Medium Laser LT 5 1 1.00
LRM-10 LT 4 1 2.50
SRM-4 LT 3 1 1.00
Large Pulse Laser RA 10 2 6.00
2 ER Small Lasers LA 4 2 1.00
@Anti-Missile System (24) RT - 1 1.00
@LRM-10 (12) LT - 1 1.00
@SRM-4 (25) LT - 1 1.00
Free Critical Slots: 16
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 8 Points: 24
4j 6 6 2 0 4 1 Structure: 7
Special Abilities: AMS, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, IF 1
Battlemaster IIC 4
Battlemaster IIC 4
Mass: 85 tons
Tech Base: Clan
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-C-A
Production Year: 3070
Cost: 9,483,501 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2,245
Chassis: Unknown Standard
Power Plant: Unknown 340 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 43.2 km/h
Maximum Speed: 64.8 km/h
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Unknown Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
1 Gauss Rifle
4 ER Medium Lasers
5 Small Pulse Lasers
2 Machine Guns
1 Anti-Missile System
Manufacturer: Unknown
Primary Factory: Unknown
Communications System: Unknown
Targeting and Tracking System: Unknown
Overview:
A fourth team entered late in the design with a submission that strayed away
from the energy-based weapons of the three other submissions. Like the warriors
of the Clan, this team of Blood Spirit scientists believe that might make right and
that there is nothing mightier than the Gauss rifle. Replacing the PPC and SRM-6
with the aforementioned Gauss Rifle and its massive three ton ammunition bin,
which allow it to stay in the field for a considerable time. Providing the backup
firepower is provided by a quartet of medium lasers and a quintet of small pulse
lasers (three of which are rear facing). In all other matters it is very similar to it
fellow competitors.
================================================================================
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard 130 points 8.50
Engine: Fusion Engine 340 27.00
Walking MP: 4
Running MP: 6
Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks: Double Heat Sink 13(26) 3.00
Gyro: Standard 4.00
Cockpit: Standard 3.00
Actuators: L: SH+UA+LA+H R: SH+UA
Armor: Ferro-Fibrous AV - 239 12.50
Armor Locations: 1 LT, 2 RT, 1 LA, 1 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL
CASE Locations: LT, LA, RA 0.00
Internal Armor
Structure Factor
Head 3 9
Center Torso 27 37
Center Torso (rear) 15
L/R Torso 18 26
L/R Torso (rear) 10
L/R Arm 14 25
L/R Leg 18 28
================================================================================
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Small Pulse Laser HD 2 1 1.00
(R) Small Pulse Laser CT 2 1 1.00
Small Pulse Laser CT 2 1 1.00
2 ER Medium Lasers RT 10 2 2.00
(R) Small Pulse Laser RT 2 1 1.00
2 ER Medium Lasers LT 10 2 2.00
(R) Small Pulse Laser LT 2 1 1.00
Anti-Missile System LT 1 1 0.50
Gauss Rifle RA 1 6 12.00
2 Machine Guns LA 0 2 0.50
@Gauss Rifle (24) RT - 3 3.00
@Anti-Missile System (24) LT - 1 1.00
@MG (200) LA - 1 1.00
Free Critical Slots: 19
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 8 Points: 22
4 6 5 2 0 4 0 Structure: 7
Special Abilities: AMS, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
-
Very good Abele, this contest is gonna wrap up on Sunday so anyone else interested in trying their hand at the Battlemaster IIC please get your entry in by then. ;)
-
Less than two hours to go on this contest but I will give you until morning tomorrow as a bonus if anyone is interested in participating.
-
Ok folks, I did forget to officially close this contest this morning but sense I just remembered the challenge has come to a conclusion. I will look over all the participants and let you know who won soon. ;)
-
Sorry it has been so long folks but I wanted to finish this review up today. First off, I want to thank everyone who participated and yes the Quicksilver TRO is still on - I’ve just got a lot of development work to get through before it gets done. Over the past couple of weeks I’ve looked at all your submissions and thought about the Battlemaster IIC. To be honest I still was not quite satisfied with the feel of these Battlemasters so I went back to the drawing board and did a straight Clan upgrade. It is also pretty interesting how these Battlemasters compare to the Marauder IIC which maybe its primary competition Clan wise. Not only is there a design rivalry between the Blood Spirits and Burrocks but Jade Falcon and Wolf. Anyway, let me get to the review of the designs posted here.
Drakensis
This design again featured 12.5 tons of Ferro-Fibrous (239 factor) which I would have preferred to see just a bit more. 2 ER Larges, 3 SRM-4s, 6 ER Smalls, and 2 Small Pulse Lasers could do a possible 84 damage at a cost of 49 heat generated. With 23 doubled heat sinks handling most of that it has a BattleMaster feel to it. Negatively, I will say the ER Larges have a massive gap with the other weaponry which could reduce its effectiveness. Perhaps LRMs instead of SRMs in a Blood Kite like arrangement could make a better-balanced fighter which is cost effective. As currently arrayed I think a lot of weight is squandered on short range weapons which may leave it wanting in a fight with an opponent like a Marauder IIC. The fluff was good even though the overview was copied and featured a solid understanding of Quicksilver. I liked the battle history which focused on that Battlemaster/Marauder rivalry. I tried to work on a variant of this one and include elements of the story. Thanks so much drak.
Dragon Cat
Quite possibly the most out of the box entry we had it featured the most armor of any participant with 13 tons of Ferro-Fibrous (249 factor). I like going for the max which is 259 at 13.5 tons of ferro fibrous myself cause it gives the Battlemaster a little more endurance than the Marauder so bravo DC. Now weaponry and equipment is where things really got different which is not necessarily a bad thing. Going away from the ER PPC to a LB 10-X AC certainly changes things up as does the LRM 15 with Artemis. Left with a standard SRM 6, a Medium Pulse, an ER Medium, and two Small Pulses there is a lot less heat generated by this design (24). This enables a reduction of the high heat sinks found in most Battlemasters to 12 (24) which means only movement generated heat exceeds the alpha strike heat threshold. Being able to do 61 points of damage at varying ranges is a plus as the Battlemaster generally suffers from having a single long range weapon and a bevy of medium range stuff. Another addition I like is the Guardian ECM Suite which because of its Command Mech status I could see that or an Active Probe. Your fluff was a bit short, didn’t include Quicksilver and eluded to Dark Age which knocked you down a bit in my eyes. However, this design showed some intriguing concepts even though it placed third in part of this non-Battlemaster feel I really appreciated the differences.
Abele (x 4)
Well my friend Abele first tripled, then quadrupled his entries by building off Battlemaster’s featuring 12.5 tons of Ferro-Fibrous (239 factor). Again, I was looking for more but let’s go through all the weapon configurations. The first variant has a Large Pulse as its main gun with a LRM 20 plus Artemis supporting it. Swapping longs for the traditional shorts is an interesting concept here and one which I may keep in the final equation. Four Medium Pulse Lasers and two Machine Guns round out its forward firing weaponry with two Small Pulse Lasers retained for rear firing, I like! With 32 forward firing heat (with 15 doubled heat sinks keeping it close in Alpha Strike) and a damage factor is 62 you have a nice mix. Version two reminds me of a Kodiak with its bracket firing goodness and I like the addition of a MASC. With 17 doubled heat sinks however it is too bad you can’t go Triple Strength Myomer with 51 heat generated by weapon fire alone! An alpha strike puts you over by 16 by my math however you do 87 points of damage quite possibly. The third incarnation adds the mobility of four Jump Jets and reminds me of Dragon Cat’s entry how it carries both long and short range missiles. It kind of had a little bit of everything from Pulses to ERs and even an Anti-Missile System. Sort of like a jack of all trades and master of none this left me wanting perhaps the most of any Battle ‘master’ entry. Now me being a Gauss guy I of course like entry four which features a Gauss main gun. I feel like this one is almost a sniper of sorts with 4 ER Mediums being the main support and the other weapons (5 Small Pulses, 2 Machine Guns, and an Anti-Missile System) being a sort of last resort. Interesting concept to say the least but I feel it is a little too heavy for such a role. I did like your fluff even if it was a bit generic on Quicksilver and the designs themselves had several intriguing concepts.
My second attempt will follow shortly I hope you all like it. I tried to incorporate elements where I could. Please let me know how you like it!
-
BATTLEMASTER IIC
Mass: 85 tons
Chassis: Hollis Mark X
Power Plant: 340 VOX
Cruising Speed: 43.2 kph
Maximum Speed: 64.8 kph
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: None
Armor: Compound Zeta Ferro-Fibrous
Armament: 1 Type 22 Extended Range Particle Projection Cannon
1 Pattern J6c Streak-6 SRM
6 Series 2 Extended Range Medium Lasers
2 Series 1 Extended Range Small Lasers
Manufacturer: BattleMech Y3 Facility
Primary Factory: York
Communications System: HartfordCo COM 4000
Targeting and Tracking System: HartfordCo XKZ 1
OVERVIEW
While modularization of the Blood Kite into the Stone Lion was cause for celebration among the Clan some Blood Spirits realized the need for a capable replacement was even more important. Several thought the Awesome IIC would fill that role with the second line units of their Touman. However, this ignored the Warhammer IIC upgrade which thanks to the contract with Diamond Shark was occurring rapidly. Khan Karianna Schmitt authorized her designers to “explore cost effective alternatives to the Blood Kiteâ€. Thankfully the Quicksilver Program had already showcased several different eighty-five-ton BattleMechs which could potentially be effective. Among these was the well respected Battlemaster which had served with distinction since its introduction in 2633. Ironically it had been the fifteenth Quicksilver Trail which was ultimately responsible for the Blood Kite upgrade that a Battlemaster OmniMech was proposed by the Fire Spirit Design Team.
CAPABILITIES
While many different variations were tested by Blood Spirit designers most lacked the ‘feel’ of the original Battlemaster according to Mechwarriors. Engineers faced with increasing costs and criticism from traditionalists went back to the drawing board. Embracing the KISS principle, they set out to keep as much of the base design as possible while upgrading what they could with advanced Clan technology. To that end venerable Hollis Mark X chassis, the reliable VOX 340 Fusion Engine, the original four-ton gyroscope, and internal myomer system were all retained. The still well-respected electronic systems featured on both the Battlemaster and the Shogun were painstakingly recreated with the help of Clan Goliath Scorpion. It was after all the HartfordCo COM 4000 communication system and the HartfordCo XKZ 1 targeting system which had helped make the ‘Mech such an effective command asset.
Replacing the original armament with advanced Clan spec weaponry is where the Battlemaster IIC improves most dramatically. A Type 22 Extended Range Particle Projection Cannon became the new main gun of the renovation giving it the ability to knock out any battlefield opponent. A Pattern J6c Streak-6 SRM along with six Series 2 Extended Range Medium Lasers make up its devastating mid-range arsenal for threats which attempt to close with the Assault ‘Mech. Since two of those ER Medium Lasers remained rear facing even highly mobile challengers must remain on guard when trying to get behind the Battlemaster IIC. Finally, two Series 1 Extended Range Small Lasers provides further close in support when necessary. All weight savings garnered from this advanced gear was put toward Double Heat Sinks allowing it hang in a fire fight much longer than its predecessor.
Of course, the addition of such cutting-edge equipment came at a cost. Every completed Battlemaster IIC was 1.6 percent more expensive than a Blood Kite. However, factors such as it’s improved speed, head capping ability, and stature as a command ‘Mech justified this relatively small price increase. Drawing these arms from conventional vehicles also mitigated the potential expenditures somewhat. That said the Battlemaster IIC is still pretty cost effective even for the notoriously tightfisted Blood Spirits. To protect their investment thirteen and half tons of Compound Zeta Ferro-Fibrous armor replaced the standard StarGuard armor plating. This sophisticated armor originally used on the Mars Assault Vehicle provides ninety eight percent of maximum protection.
DEPLOYMENT
Ideally suited for activation as a Clan second line BattleMech many were called up from Brian Caches or salvaged from InnerSphere battlefields. The first Battlemaster IICs appeared as Command ‘Mechs for second line formations in Blood Spirit and Fire Mandrill forces spreading quickly from there. Burrock however preferred their Marauder IIC and began to write yet another chapter in their bitter rivalry with the Spirit attempting to seize the first factory model. Star Captain Til Winson boldly bid himself in defense with this new war machine against a Burrock Marauder IIC and a Point of Elementals.
Winson selected the facility loading yard as his Circle of Equals and remained powered down until his enemies approached. Killing four Elementals with his first salvo he crushed the last underfoot then used the Battlemaster IIC’s superior speed to outflank his rival’s Maruader IIC. As technicians from the plant cheered, Winson's fire ripped into the reactor shielding of his opponent, crippling its ability to maneuver or return fire effectively. While the Maruader IIC was claimed as isorla, Winson refused to accept the Burrock's surrender and executed him personally for incompetence in failing to support the Elementals more closely.
The design rivalry spread as the Jade Falcon Clan salvaged a number of InnerSphere machines and pressed them into service. Star Colonel Nekane Hazen pilots one of these in the Periphery Occupation Zone and has twice squared off against Star Colonel Logan Waters of the Wolf Clan in his Marauder IIC. Both Mechwarriors have each won an encounter versus the other in frontier border clashes between their respective Clans. A third showdown and beyond seems inevitable as the Falcons have rapidly adopted the Battlemaster IIC as the Wolf preference for ilKhan Jerome Winson’s Marauder IIC remains unwavering.
Goliath Scorpion assistance in the development of the Battlemaster IIC enabled their early acquisition of this design which they quickly passed along to the Diamond Sharks and Steel Vipers. The Viper’s possession of Trellshire Heavy Industries on Twycross rapidly made their Battlemaster IIC force the third largest. The Shark’s have acquired many salvaged and cached Battlemasters rapidly proliferating it throughout their touman. These three Clans have made excellent use this design and the Marauder IIC often teaming them quite effectively in Assault Stars.
While Hell’s Horses, Ice Hellion, and Smoke Jaguar all use the Marauder IIC they are currently evaluating the Battlemaster IIC for use. These Clans would likely utilize them in close conjuction as the Scorpions, Sharks and Vipers have thus far. Cloud Cobra, Nova Cat, Snow Raven, and Star Adder all still prefer the Maruader IIC. So far none of these Clans have even inquired about the Battlemaster IIC just like the Coyotes and Ghost Bears. These two Clans have eschewed not only the Battlemaster IIC but its new design rival as well preferring their own Assault BattleMechs instead.
VARIANTS
Two alternate Battlemaster IIC models have appeared alongside the classic Clan upgrade. The BK variant named for the Blood Kite swaps the ER PPC for two ER Large Lasers and the Streak SRM for three LRM-5s. Four ER Smalls also replace ER Mediums in order to make these modifications possible. While this longer range option has its uses, it is not as beloved as the traditional version. Jade Falcon have developed a more popular variant named the SL which has gained notoriety as Nekane Hazen’s personal ‘Mech. Following the old Royal Star League specifications it drops two Double Heat Sinks, the Streak SRM 6, and all six ER Mediums to add a second ER PPC along with a Large Pulse Laser. Four side torso mounted ER Smalls provide close support for this big gun version which is fast becoming a favorite of Jade Falcon second line forces.
Type: Battlemaster IIC
Technology Base: Clan Level 2
Tonnage: 85 tons
Equipment Mass
Internal Structure: 8.5
Engine: 340 27
Walking MP: 4
Running MP: 6
Jumping MP: 0 0
Heat Sinks: 21 (42) 11
Gyro: 4
Cockpit: 3
Armor Factor: 259 13.5
Internal Structure Armor Value
Head 3 9
Center Torso 27 41 / 11
R/L Torso 18 27 / 9
R/L Arm 14 28
R/L Leg 18 35
Weapons and Ammo: Location Critical Mass
ER PPC Right Arm 2 6
Streak SRM 6 Right Torso 2 3
Ammo (Streak SRM) 30 Right Torso 2 2
ER Medium Laser Right Torso 1 1
ER Medium Laser Right Torso 1 1
ER Medium Laser Right Torso (R) 1 1
ER Medium Laser Left Torso 1 1
ER Medium Laser Left Torso 1 1
ER Medium Laser Left Torso (R) 1 1
ER Small Laser Left Arm 1 .5
ER Small Laser Left Arm 1 .5
Blood Kite Variant (Ideal range is 15, too close 6 for six ER Smalls)
2 ER Large Lasers Right Arm 2 8 24
3 LRM-5s Right Torso 3 3 6
Ammo (LRM) 48 Right Torso 2 2
ER Medium Laser Right Torso 1 1 5
ER Small Laser Right Torso 1 .5 2
ER Small Laser Right Torso (R) 1 .5 2
ER Medium Laser Left Torso 1 1 5
ER Small Laser Left Torso 1 .5 2
ER Small Laser Left Torso (R) 1 .5 2
ER Small Laser Left Arm 1 .5 2
ER Small Laser Left Arm 1 .5 2
18 52
Royal Clan Upgrade (follows SLDF specs, Medium Lasers replaced by ER Smalls, and two Double Heat Sinks had to be removed)
ER PPC Right Arm 2 6 15
ER PPC Left Arm 2 6 15
Large Pulse Laser Center Torso 2 6 10
ER Small Laser Right Torso 1 .5 2
ER Small Laser Right Torso 1 .5 2
ER Small Laser Left Torso 1 .5 2
ER Small Laser Left Torso 1 .5 2
-2 Double Heat Sinks (total 19, over by 4 Alpha Strike) -4 -2
20 48