Topic: Optimizing the Battlemaster (Read 21058 times)

Takiro · « **on:** October 10, 2021, 10:48:55 PM »

Our fifty-first design challenge rises to meet the first eighty-five-ton BattleMech which naturally commands attention. The BattleMaster is one of those machines that I always think of as a commander’s ride during our home campaign even though there are others to be sure. Perhaps this is because of famous Mech Lords like Minoru Kurita, Takashi Kurita, and Hanse Davion all utilizing it as their personal ‘Mech. In production since 2633 the BattleMaster seems to have proliferated all over the InnerSphere with every Great House and several mercenary units making use of it’s two dozen plus variants. What I am looking for is the most optimal BattleMaster for the Salient Horizon universe. We have the CBT Mech of the Week article and sarna’s wiki page on the subject for inspiration and I’m excited to see what you guys can come up with.

’Mech of the Week: BLR-** Battlemaster
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/fan-articles/mech-of-the-week-blr-**-battlemaster/

Battlemaster - BattleTechWiki
https://www.sarna.net/wiki/BattleMaster

Design Criteria
Design: BattleMaster Assault BattleMech
Era: 3052, just following the Truce of Tukayyid
Tech: InnerSphere Level 2
Mass: 85 tons

Tech Base
The tech base for this enterprise will be InnerSphere Level 2, also known as Star League lostech, circa 3053. Remember some Level 1 standards which Bradshaw and myself think still have value like Large Lasers and PPCs which feature the same damage factor as their higher tech brethren with less range and perhaps most significantly less heat. Here is a list for your design reference. Let me know if there is anything I missed!

Star League LosTech
Anti-Missile System
Arrow IV Artillery Missile System
Extended Range Large Laser (ER Large Laser)
Extended Range Particle Projection Cannon (ER PPC)
Gauss Rifle
Ultra Autocannon/5
LB 10-X Autocannon
One-Shot Missile Packs
Pulse Lasers (Small, Medium, & Large)
Streak SRM-2
Swarm LRMs
Thunder LRMs
Artemis IV FCS
Beagle Active Probe
Guardian ECM Suite
Myomer Accelerator Signal Circuitry (MASC)
Narc Missile Beacon
TAG
Cellular Ammunition Storage Equipment (CASE)
Double Heat Sinks
Endo Steel Internal Structure
Ferro-Fibrous Armor
Extra Light (XL) Engine

InnerSphere Low Tech
Blazer Cannon (or Binary Laser)
Recon Camera
Remote Sensor Dispenser

New Innovations
Triple Strength Myomer
Hatchet
C3 Computer

Design Traits of this Setting
Both the Federated Commonwealth and ComStar seem to have gone in the other direction with LRM batteries preferring larger LRM-15s and 20s linked to Artemis IV FCS to enhance accuracy. Facing the technologically superior Clan invaders have caused them to spend vast sums of resources on the finest technology available usually translating into high priced BattleMechs that few other factions can afford.
This is somewhat true for the Draconis Combine which has lost a significant portion of their industrial capacity to the Clans. This has been forced Kurita designers to innovate in new and different ways regardless of traditional warrior ethos which pervades the realm. Many Draconis optimizations have included the C3 System which is accelerated from the canon setting which saw their deployment lag.
The Free Worlds League in particular have embraced massed LRM-5s over the larger batteries to provide closer mass equivalents to Clan LRMs. Thanks to a corresponding increase in NARC units these ‘fire teams’ have become quite effective in the Marik Civil War. Also, the Blazer has made an appearance in the shattered FWLM searching for an advantage over their former brethren.
The Capellan Confederation typically fields cost effective designs at this time thanks to their resource strapped situation. While justifications for high end increases can be made like the Outreach Conference, Wrath of Blake technical aid, spoils of war from Isis forces, and good old Capellan espionage these should be minimized. My advice would be Periphery plus for these designs as the Confederation is under strain supporting Isis right now as it is. Growing stealth tech reflected in the Raven would be appropriate in many cases as sophisticated electronic lostech devices like the Guardian ECM Suite would be a priority for their recon designs. There is also a fire support role which is a hallmark of Liao tactical doctrine. The discovery of Thunder LRMs to deploy minefields and use of Arrow IV Artillery on the Catapult are themes which could be amplified here.
Regional factions like the Draconis March and the Periphery have seen the introduction of some ‘simple’ lostech items like Double Heat Sinks, Ferro-Fibrous, Streak SRM-2s, and Pulse Lasers. Extra-Light (XL) Engines remain too expensive and have drawbacks which make their deployment unlikely here. Advanced orbital facilities needed for EndoSteel manufacturing also remain out of reach at this point. They are not beyond using PPCs and Large Lasers either which they view as more efficient than their ER successors.

Please do your research (think Objective Raids) for available components as this will be another factor in rapid production. I love fluff and your winning designs will be featured in my BattleTech Salient Horizon alternate setting. I'd like to go beyond the refits bought to you by Technical Readout 3050 and delve into extensive redesigns of your BattleTech favorites. Sharpen up your favorite war machines perhaps drawing on past or current variants while remembering the spirit or role of these Mechs. Don't forget to justify the expense of your project and multiple winners are possible. Figure that all entries have to be completed and posted on these forums by Friday October 22nd 2021 by 11:59 PM which should give you all a full two weeks for this contest, good luck!!

drakensis · « **Reply #1 on:** October 11, 2021, 02:57:19 AM »

Battlelord

Mass: 85 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Age of War/Star League
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/C-E-D-A
Production Year: 3052
Cost: 8,844,233 C-Bills
Battle Value: 1,745

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: StarGuard IV Standard Armor
Armament:
2 Donal PPCs
2 Holly SRM-6s
4 Martell Medium Lasers
Manufacturer: Red Devil Industries
Primary Factory: Pandora
Communications System: HarfordCo COM 4000
Targeting and Tracking System: HarfordCo XKZ 1

Overview:

With the need to upgrade 'Mechs for defending their factory, very much in range of Clan attacks, Red Devil was motivated to build something quick and easy for the Battlemaster. Copying the arm structure from the well-respected Warhammer allowed them to easily incorporate a second PPC with the tonnage saved by using lighter heatsinks. While a pair of PPCs is no longer the gold standard for long-range direct firepower, it remains respectable.

Stripping the machine guns (which designers considered to be of limited use against Elementals) and the rear-mounted lasers freed up additional tonnage. Red Devil fitted a second SRM launcher before slathering almost two additional tons of armour protection onto the design. The withering short-range firepower is believed to be sufficient to see off up to a star of Elementals before they can cause enough damage to the reinforced limbs to cripple the Battlelord.

Battlelords from Pandora are being shipped to whatever units are closest to the factory, in the desperate hope that enough firepower deployed soon enough will save Pandora from the Clans.

Code: [Select]

================================================================================
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             10(20)                    0.00
Gyro:               Standard                                               4.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA    R: SH+UA+LA
Armor:              Standard Armor               AV - 263                 16.50

                                                      Internal       Armor      
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            9         
                                        Center Torso     27           41        
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  13        
                                           L/R Torso     18           28        
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  8         
                                             L/R Arm     14           28        
                                             L/R Leg     18           36        

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass  
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 Medium Lasers                              RT        6         2         2.00
SRM-6                                        RT        4         2         3.00
2 Medium Lasers                              LT        6         2         2.00
SRM-6                                        LT        4         2         3.00
PPC                                          RA        10        3         7.00
PPC                                          LA        10        3         7.00
@SRM-6 (15)                                  RT        -         1         1.00
@SRM-6 (15)                                  LT        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 33

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      9    Points: 17
4          3       3       2       0      4     3   Structure:  7
Special Abilities: SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA

I couldn't get it to embed, but it's based on this image

Takiro · « **Reply #2 on:** October 11, 2021, 06:09:38 AM »

Nice drakensis, I like the combo image too!

Bradshaw · « **Reply #3 on:** October 11, 2021, 11:46:00 AM »

Hollis Incorporated has only barely begun to recover from the raid during the 2nd Succession War by FWL forces vs the then Capellan held world. With heavy funding from the Federated Commonwealth, Hollis has been able to begin production again for some of their signature designs including the Battlemaster and Highlander assault 'Mechs. With minor alterations from the traditional Battlemaster design the -2FC has additional firepower in the longer ranges in most modern combat. Dropping its traditional shoulder mounted short range missiles the design instead carries a battery of three Holly V long range missile systems. Influenced by the local market of the FWL the design deviates from the traditional larger Artemis back missile system, hoping to be an attractive design to the FWL quartermasters. Removing the standard machine gun batteries for the ammoless small pulse laser the design is still effective in anti-infantry engagements. With the increase in tonnage devoted to the increased missiles systems and the additional ton and half of armor to the design the commonly six Martell Medium Lasers has been reduced to a still effective four on the design.

BattleMaster BLR-2FC

Introduction Year: 3051
Cost: 8,830,543 C-bills
Battle Value: 1,693

Code: [Select]


Mass: 85 tons
Chassis: Hollis Mark X
Power Plant: VOX 340
Cruising Speed: 43.2 kph
Maximum Speed: 64.8 kph

Armor: StarGuard
Armament:
     1 Magna Firestar ER PPC
     3 Holly V LRM 5
     4 Martell Medium Laser
     1 Small Pulse Laser
Manufacturer: Hollis Incorporated
     Primary Factory: Corey
Communication System: HartfordCo COM 4000
Targeting & Tracking System: HartfordCo XKZ 1

Equipment                                          Mass
Internal Structure                                  8.5
Engine                        340 Fusion             27
	Walking MP: 4
	Running MP: 6
	Jumping MP: 0
Double Heat Sink              18 [36]                 8
Gyro                                                  4
Cockpit                                               3
Armor Factor                  224                    14

                          Internal   Armor   
                          Structure  Value   
     Head                    3         9     
     Center Torso            27        34    
     Center Torso (rear)               11    
     R/L Torso               18        25    
     R/L Torso (rear)                  7     
     R/L Arm                 14        23    
     R/L Leg                 18        30    

Weapons              Location  Critical   Heat    Tonnage	
ER PPC                   RA        3        15      7.0   
3 LRM 5                  LT        3        2       6.0   
2 Medium Laser           RT        2        3       2.0   
2 Medium Laser           LT        2        3       2.0   
Small Pulse Laser        CT        1        2       1.0   
LRM 5 Ammo (48)          LT        2        -       2.0   
CASE                     LT        1        -       0.5   
3 Double Heat Sink       RT        9        -       3.0   
Double Heat Sink         LA        3        -       1.0   
Double Heat Sink         LT        3        -       1.0

masterarminas · « **Reply #4 on:** October 11, 2021, 02:12:20 PM »

BLR-2D BattleMaster

While House Davion does not produce the BattleMaster, they do have a sizable number of such units serving in the AFFS (indeed, Hanse Davion himself pilots one!). Because of this, the AFFS has made a concerted effort to refit and upgrade BattleMasters in service.

Archernar BattleMechs of New Avalon was selected to handle the refit process. The engineering teams at Archernar chose to remove all ballistic and missile weaponry, eliminating the potential for any internal ammunition explosions. They also removed the standard heat sinks and replaced them with eighteen double-strength freezers, greatly expanding the ability of the BLR-2D to compensate for the increased heat load of it's onboard weaponry.

The original Star Guard armor was also replaced with 14.5 tons of Ferro-Fibrous armor plating, increasing durability and protection across the 'Mech.

Archernar next turned their attention to the weapon systems. While the six torso mounted Martell Medium Lasers were retained (two still positioned to fire towards the rear), the Donal PPC was upgraded to a Johnson Highspeed Extended-Range PPC. A pair of Diverse Optics Type 10P Small Pulse Lasers was added to the left arm, providing some measure of anti-infantry capabilities as well as improved point-blank range damage against vehicles and 'Mechs. Finally, the engineering team added a Magna Mk III Large Laser to the center torso. While maximum damage is slightly less than the older BattleMaster, engagement range has increased and there is no longer any threat of an internal ammunition explosion.

Furthermore, enough freezers are mounted to allow for the near constant use of all forward firing weaponry (indeed, the BLR-2D is heat-neutral with the ER PPC, Large Laser, and four forward firing Medium Lasers on a walk). Only when the twin Small Pulse Lasers are added to the firing circuit is any excess overheat generated.

First Prince Hanse Davion received the first BLR-2D BattleMaster in 3049, presented in a ceremony at Mount Royal Palace. Soon afterwards, refitted and overhauled BattleMasters began appearing throughout the AFFS.

Code: [Select]

BattleMaster BLR-2D

Mass: 85 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-D-A
Production Year: 3070
Dry Cost: 9,100,643 C-Bills
Total Cost: 9,100,643 C-Bills
Battle Value: 1,822

Chassis: Holllis 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: Star Guard Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    1 Johnson Highspeed ER PPC
    1 Magna Mk III Large Laser
    6 Martell Medium Lasers
    2 Diverse Optics Type 10P Small Pulse Lasers
Manufacturer: Archernar BattleMechs (Refit only)
    Primary Factory: New Avalon
Communications System: HartfordCo COM 4000
Targeting and Tracking System: HartfordCo XKZ 1

================================================================================
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             18(36)                    8.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 2 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 - 259                 14.50
    Armor Locations: 3 LT, 3 RT, 2 LA, 2 RA, 2 LL, 2 RL

                                                      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           28        
                                             L/R Leg     18           35        

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass  
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ER PPC                                       RA        15        3         7.00
2 Small Pulse Lasers                         LA        4         2         2.00
2 Medium Lasers                              RT        6         2         2.00
(R) Medium Laser                             RT        3         1         1.00
2 Medium Lasers                              LT        6         2         2.00
(R) Medium Laser                             LT        3         1         1.00
Large Laser                                  CT        8         2         5.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 5

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      9    Points: 18
4          5       4       1       0      4     0   Structure:  7
Special Abilities: ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA

Ice Hellion · « **Reply #5 on:** October 11, 2021, 02:18:38 PM »

Quote from: drakensis on October 11, 2021, 02:57:19 AM

Battlelord

A heavier Warhammer?

masterarminas · « **Reply #6 on:** October 11, 2021, 02:36:11 PM »

BLR-2K BattleMaster

House Kurita as well has chosen to overhaul the BattleMasters in the Draconis Combine. Their design (retrofitted at Luthien Armor Works on Luthien) retains most of the original armaments package: six Martell Medium Lasers (two firing to the rear) and a Holly SRM-6 pack (fed by a ton of ammunition). However, the Sperry-Browning Machine-Guns and ammunition removed and the Donal PPC replaced with an Lord's Light 2 Extended-Range PPC.

Like the BLR-2D, the design team replaced the single heat sinks of the original BattleMaster with double-strength Freezers (15 in this case). Armor has been upgraded to 15.0 tons of Ferro-Fibrous plating (for the maximum possible protection on an 85-ton bipedal chassis) and CASE added to the right torso to protect the SRM reloads.

A Tanadi Citizen C3 Slave Module has been added to the left torso, while the remaining available tonnage was used to install a Command Console in the head.

While some might question the decision to not mount a C3 Master Computer, the use of a Command Console provides a high-ranking commanding officer with the ability to direct the flow of battle, while the 'Mech is piloted by another MechWarrior. Having a C3 Slave Module lets the BLR-2K integrate into the tactical battlenet of the Regimental Command Company, but makes the 'Mech less of a critical target than the 'Mech acrually carrying the two C3 Master Computers to tied that company together.

Overall, the BLR-2K makes an excellent command 'Mech for the DCMS, lacking only anti-personnel capabilities in its sizeable arsenal. And the 15 freezers mounted compensate for nearly all of the forward mounted weapons heat, with the 'Mech generating just minor excess overheat on an Alpha Strike.

Code: [Select]

BattleMaster BLR-2K

Mass: 85 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Advanced Rules
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-E-A
Production Year: 3070
Dry Cost: 10,654,643 C-Bills
Total Cost: 10,708,643 C-Bills
Battle Value: 1,758

Chassis: Holllis 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: Star Guard Ferro-Fibrous w/ CASE
Armament:
    1 Lord's Light 2 ER PPC
    1 Holly SRM-6 w/ Artemis IV FCS
    6 Martell Medium Lasers
    1  C3 Computer (Slave)
Manufacturer: Luthien Armor Works (Refit only)
    Primary Factory: Luthien
Communications System: HartfordCo COM 4000
Targeting and Tracking System: HartfordCo XKZ 1

================================================================================
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: 1 LT, 1 RT
Gyro:               Standard                                               4.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA+LA+H
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV - 263                 15.00
    Armor Locations: 2 CT, 2 LT, 1 RT, 2 LA, 3 RA, 2 LL, 2 RL
    CASE Locations: 1 RT                                                   0.50

                                                      Internal       Armor      
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            9         
                                        Center Torso     27           40        
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  14        
                                           L/R Torso     18           28        
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  8         
                                             L/R Arm     14           28        
                                             L/R Leg     18           36        

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass  
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ER PPC                                       RA        15        3         7.00
2 Medium Lasers                              RT        6         2         2.00
(R) Medium Laser                             RT        3         1         1.00
SRM-6                                        RT        4         2         3.00
    Artemis IV FCS                           RT        -         1         1.00
2 Medium Lasers                              LT        6         2         2.00
(R) Medium Laser                             LT        3         1         1.00
C3 Computer (Slave)                          LT        0         1         1.00
Command Console                              HD        -         1         3.00
@SRM-6 (Artemis) (15)                        RT        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 11

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      9    Points: 18
4          4       4       1       0      4     0   Structure:  7
Special Abilities: C3S, CASE, MHQ1, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA

masterarminas · « **Reply #7 on:** October 11, 2021, 02:38:12 PM »

More to come.

Takiro · « **Reply #8 on:** October 11, 2021, 04:09:30 PM »

Bradshaw - don't forget to fluff those BattleMasters

Ice Hellion - yeah the Battlelord seems to combine a bit of both Mechs

Masterarminas- very nice! Can't wait to see what else is on the way

masterarminas · « **Reply #9 on:** October 11, 2021, 04:11:28 PM »

BLR-2M BattleMaster

The BLR-2M BattleMaster was the first new production variant of this venerable design that appeared in the wake of the revelation and adaptation of the Helm Core. Produced by Earthwerks, Inc. at their massive Keystone factory, the BLR-2M uses a host of advanced technologies to improve engagement range, accuracy, damage, heat dissipation, structural resilience, and armor protection.

Sixteen Double-Strength Heat Sinks are installed to better allow the BLR-2M to deal with the heat its weapons array is capable of producing, while the engineers at Earthwerks replaced the old standard armor plating with 15.0 tons of Ferro-Fibrous composite . . . and also added CASE to the right torso to bertter protect the SRM ammunition bins.

The Holly SRM-6 launcher and ammunition were retained intact, as were the six Martell Medium Lasers, but all known examples of the BLR-2M have utilized NARC-homing ammunition for those short-ranged missiles. The Donal PPC has been replaced with a Fusigon Longtooth Extended-Range PPC, while the twin Sperry-Browning Machine-Guns and their ammunition have been replaced with four (4!!) Diverse Optics Type 10P Small Pulse Lasers.

These lasers deal the same anti-personnel damage as the twin machine-guns on the older models, but are far more accurate and inflict more damage against vehicles and 'Mechs. However, even with sixteen DHS, the cooling system is taxed to the maximum; using all forward-firing weapons other than the SPLs will result in the 'Mech staying heat-neutral on a walk, but adding the quad Type 10Ps will cause an excess overheat spike.

Nonetheless, this model is being produced in large numbers for the FWLM and select export customers as well. It remains an effective and fearsome opponent on the battlefield.

Code: [Select]

BattleMaster BLR-2M

Mass: 85 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-D-A
Production Year: 3070
Dry Cost: 9,211,643 C-Bills
Total Cost: 9,265,643 C-Bills
Battle Value: 1,784

Chassis: Holllis 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: Star Guard Ferro-Fibrous w/ CASE
Armament:
    1 Fusigon Longtooth ER PPC
    1 Holly SRM-6
    6 Martell Medium Lasers
    4 Diverse Optics Type 10P Small Pulse Lasers
Manufacturer: Earthwerks, Inc
    Primary Factory: Keystone
Communications System: HartfordCo COM 4000
Targeting and Tracking System: HartfordCo XKZ 1

================================================================================
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             16(32)                    6.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 2 LT, 1 RT
Gyro:               Standard                                               4.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA+LA+H
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV - 263                 15.00
    Armor Locations: 2 CT, 2 LT, 2 RT, 2 LA, 2 RA, 2 LL, 2 RL
    CASE Locations: 1 RT                                                   0.50

                                                      Internal       Armor      
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            9         
                                        Center Torso     27           40        
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  14        
                                           L/R Torso     18           28        
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  8         
                                             L/R Arm     14           28        
                                             L/R Leg     18           36        

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass  
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ER PPC                                       RA        15        3         7.00
4 Small Pulse Lasers                         LA        8         4         4.00
2 Medium Lasers                              RT        6         2         2.00
(R) Medium Laser                             RT        3         1         1.00
SRM-6                                        RT        4         2         3.00
2 Medium Lasers                              LT        6         2         2.00
(R) Medium Laser                             LT        3         1         1.00
@SRM-6 (Narc) (15)                           RT        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 7

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      9    Points: 18
4          5       4       1       0      4     0   Structure:  7
Special Abilities: CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA

masterarminas · « **Reply #10 on:** October 11, 2021, 04:39:02 PM »

BLR-2S BattleMaster

House Steiner produces a limited number of BattleMasters at two facilities: Trellshire Heavy Industries on Twycross and Red Devil Industries on Pandora. The facility on Twycross was captured during the Clan Invasion, but production continues at Pandora (although that facility is also in danger of being captured by Clan Jade Falcon).

The BLR-2S is very similar to other new variants using recovered technology. There are sixteen DHS replacing the older standard heat sinks while 14.5 tons of Ferro-Fibrous armor plating replace the original Star Guard armor. CASE has been installed in both the right and left torsos.

The main weapon is a Defiance 1001 Extended-Range PPC that is backed up at closer ranges by six Martell Medium Lasers (two oriented to fire towards the rear). However, instead of the Holly SRM-6 launcher, the BLR-2S features three Federated Superstreak Streak SRM-2 short-range missile launchers, fed by a ton of ammunition. The twin Sperry-Browning Machine-Guns were retained (although ammunition was cut in half) and a Zippo Flamer added for additional close-quarters combat and anti-personnel capacity.

While it appears the BLR-2S is undersinked, it is only seldom that all three Streak packs will lock onto target and the Flamer is but seldom used. This results in the Steiner BattleMaster normally running heat-neutral or with slightly excess overheat under most situations.

It is rumored that TharHes Industries on Tharkad is considering adding a BattleMaster production line for the BLR-2S to replace the line lost on Twycross, but this may be just rumors.

Code: [Select]

BattleMaster BLR-2S

Mass: 85 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-D-A
Production Year: 3070
Dry Cost: 9,134,868 C-Bills
Total Cost: 9,189,368 C-Bills
Battle Value: 1,792

Chassis: Holllis 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: Star Guard Ferro-Fibrous w/ CASE
Armament:
    1 Defiance 1001 ER PPC
    6 Martell Medium Lasers
    3 Federated Superstreak Streak SRM-2s
    1 Zippo Flamer
    2 Sperry Browning Machine Guns
Manufacturer: Trellshire Heavy Industries, Red Devil Industries
    Primary Factory: Twycross (THI), Pandora (RDI)
Communications System: HartfordCo COM 4000
Targeting and Tracking System: HartfordCo XKZ 1

================================================================================
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             16(32)                    6.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 2 LT, 1 RT
Gyro:               Standard                                               4.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA+LA+H
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV - 259                 14.50
    Armor Locations: 2 CT, 2 LT, 1 RT, 2 LA, 3 RA, 2 LL, 2 RL
    CASE Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT                                             1.00

                                                      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           28        
                                             L/R Leg     18           35        

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass  
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ER PPC                                       RA        15        3         7.00
2 Machine Guns                               LA        0         2         1.00
Flamer                                       LA        3         1         1.00
2 Medium Lasers                              RT        6         2         2.00
(R) Medium Laser                             RT        3         1         1.00
3 Streak SRM-2s                              RT        6         3         4.50
2 Medium Lasers                              LT        6         2         2.00
(R) Medium Laser                             LT        3         1         1.00
@MG (1/2) (100)                              LA        -         1         0.50
@Streak SRM-2 (50)                           RT        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 5

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      9    Points: 18
4          5       4       1       0      4     1   Structure:  7
Special Abilities: CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA

Takiro · « **Reply #11 on:** October 11, 2021, 05:08:03 PM »

Nice masterarminas, only one House to go?

masterarminas · « **Reply #12 on:** October 11, 2021, 05:18:29 PM »

BLR-2T BattleMaster

The Taurian Concordat has recently unveiled the BLR-2T BattleMaster. While this 'Mech is not produced at any facility within the Concordat, House Calderon has decided to make this upgrade available to any interested mercenary unit. First priority, however, has been given to the Taurian Defense Force, local Noble's Regiments, and mercenary formations in service to the Concordat. However, the simple effectiveness and ruggedness of this design has begun to attract attention and many mercenary liaison officers have made their way to Taurus to arrange for an appointment to have their BattleMasters refitted and overhauled.

This variant includes 14 Double-strength Freezers, 15 tons of Ferro-Fibrous armor composites, and CASE installations in both side torsos. The Donal PPC, both Sperry-Browning Machine-Guns (and a half-ton of ammunition), and all six Martell Medium Lasers have been retained. The Holly SRM-6 launcher has been removed however and replaced with four Pinard Reaper Streak SRM-2 launchers (two each in the right and left torso, fed by two tons of ammunition).

With maximum possible armor protection for an 85-ton bipedal BattleMech, the BLR-2T provides slightly increased firepower and a gentler heat curve (provided that only two Pinard Reapers lock onto target, the design is heat-neutral on a run with all forward firing weapons). It remains highly effective against infantry and soft targets and is better able to survive with the two CASE installations directing any ammunition explosions out of the rear armor.

Although it lacks some of the more advanced weapon systems shown by Inner Sphere models, it is rugged, reliable, and well able to endure on the battlefield while retaining a reasonable price tag. It is expected to be a mainstay of Periphery and Mercenary units for some time yet to come.

Code: [Select]

BattleMaster BLR-2T

Mass: 85 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-D-A
Production Year: 3070
Dry Cost: 8,960,043 C-Bills
Total Cost: 9,068,543 C-Bills
Battle Value: 1,779

Chassis: Holllis 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: Star Guard Ferro-Fibrous w/ CASE
Armament:
    1 Donal PPC
    6 Martell Medium Lasers
    4 Pinard Reaper Streak SRM-2s
    2 Sperry Browning Machine Guns
Manufacturer: Taurus Territorial Industries (Refit only)
    Primary Factory: Taurus
Communications System: HartfordCo COM 4000
Targeting and Tracking System: HartfordCo XKZ 1

================================================================================
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             14(28)                    4.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 1 RT
Gyro:               Standard                                               4.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA+LA+H
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV - 263                 15.00
    Armor Locations: 2 CT, 2 LT, 2 RT, 2 LA, 2 RA, 2 LL, 2 RL
    CASE Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT                                             1.00

                                                      Internal       Armor      
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            9         
                                        Center Torso     27           40        
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  14        
                                           L/R Torso     18           28        
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  8         
                                             L/R Arm     14           28        
                                             L/R Leg     18           36        

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass  
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PPC                                          RA        10        3         7.00
2 Machine Guns                               LA        0         2         1.00
2 Medium Lasers                              RT        6         2         2.00
(R) Medium Laser                             RT        3         1         1.00
2 Streak SRM-2s                              RT        4         2         3.00
2 Medium Lasers                              LT        6         2         2.00
(R) Medium Laser                             LT        3         1         1.00
2 Streak SRM-2s                              LT        4         2         3.00
@MG (1/2) (100)                              LA        -         1         0.50
@Streak SRM-2 (50)                           RT        -         1         1.00
@Streak SRM-2 (50)                           LT        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 10

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      9    Points: 18
4          5       5       1       0      4     0   Structure:  7
Special Abilities: CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA

fabulousorcboy · « **Reply #13 on:** October 11, 2021, 07:18:13 PM »

Bradshaw, your 3D design is carrying a very expensive paperweight in the Gauss rifle. No ammo!

masterarminas · « **Reply #14 on:** October 11, 2021, 07:59:06 PM »

Last one.

BLR-2C BattleMaster

Unknown to most in the Inner Sphere, Cosara Weaponry (designer and manufacturer of the Crab and King Crab) had in fact survived the Amaris Coup and the subsequent Succession Wars. It's facilities on Mars remained intact and served ComStar to replace, repair, and refit their stockpile of hidden 'Mechs and combat vehicles.

As the ComGuards deployed throughout the Inner Sphere in the 3040s, newly appointed Precentor Martial Focht approached Cosara about expanding their production lines to include other BattleMechs. Among these was the BattleMaster.

But Focht did not want just copies of the commonly available BattleMaster; no, in the wake of the spread of technology from the Helm Memory Core (and advances by the NAIS, among others), he wanted to refit and redesign the 'Mech to be able to meet and defeat any future opponent.

Cosara responded with enthusiasm. By 3047, the first prototypes of the BLR-2C BattleMaster were being fielded, with full scale production slated to begin the following year (luckily for ComStar as it provided them with a steady supply of new build assault-weight 'Mechs soon after the Clans appeared!).

The BLR-2C uses an Endo-Steel II internal skeleton to save mass; furthermore, the design incorporates 14.0 tons of Ferro-Fibrous armor plating. Fourteen Double Strength Heat Sinks are fitted (thirteen of them within the engine core).

Cosara kept the Donal PPC (a rugged and reliable weapon system) along with two of the forward-firing Martell Medium Lasers and the Holly SRM-6 short-range missile launcher. However, they reduced the ammunition load to just one ton (installing CASE in the torso as well to protect against onboard munitions detonations) and replaced the rear-firing Medium Lasers with a pair of Martell Medium Pulse Lasers. Although these had a shorter maximum range, they were far more accurate (vital for systems firing to the rear) and inflicted slightly more damage.

In place of the final two Martell Medium Lasers, Cosara engineers fitted two Martell Large Lasers! To accommodate the weight of these changes, the twin Sperry-Browning Machine-Guns and their ammunition was removed and replaced with an Olympian Flamer.

While this variant design lacked the range of other BattleMasters mounting ER PPCs, it performed well and soon proved extremely effective at mid- and short-range combat. At range, the 14 DHS mounted are sufficient to run-and-gun with the PPC and pair of Large Lasers; in close the MechWarrior can once again use both Large Lasers, both Medium Lasers, and the SRM-6 while running and remain heat neutral.

Adding the Flamer would produce slight excess overheat, but this was deemed good enough. And the Flamer provided the same level of anti-infantry protection as the twin MGs mounted by earlier designs.

The Precentor Martial was impressed and ordered full-scale production to begin in 3048, with the first newly produced BLR-2Cs being shipped out on the same day that ComStar made first contact with the Invading Clans in the Periphery.

Code: [Select]

BattleMaster BLR-2C

Mass: 85 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-E-A
Production Year: 3070
Dry Cost: 9,347,618 C-Bills
Total Cost: 9,374,618 C-Bills
Battle Value: 1,784

Chassis: Holllis Mark X Endo-Steel
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: Star Guard Ferro-Fibrous w/ CASE
Armament:
    1 Donal PPC
    2 Martell Large Lasers
    1 Holly SRM-6
    2 Martell Medium Lasers
    2 Martell Medium Pulse Lasers
    1 Olympian Flamer
Manufacturer: Cosara Weaponry
    Primary Factory: Mars
Communications System: HartfordCo COM 4000
Targeting and Tracking System: HartfordCo XKZ 1

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass  
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel                   130 points                4.50
    Internal Locations: 1 HD, 1 CT, 4 LT, 3 LA, 3 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL
Engine:             Fusion Engine                340                      27.00
    Walking MP: 4
    Running MP: 6
    Jumping MP: 0 
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             14(28)                    4.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 1 RT
Gyro:               Standard                                               4.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA+LA+H
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV - 250                 14.00
    Armor Locations: 1 CT, 4 LT, 1 RT, 4 LA, 2 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL
    CASE Locations: 1 RT                                                   0.50

                                                      Internal       Armor      
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            9         
                                        Center Torso     27           38        
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  13        
                                           L/R Torso     18           27        
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  9         
                                             L/R Arm     14           27        
                                             L/R Leg     18           32        

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass  
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PPC                                          RA        10        3         7.00
Flamer                                       LA        3         1         1.00
SRM-6                                        RT        4         2         3.00
Large Laser                                  RT        8         2         5.00
(R) Medium Pulse Laser                       RT        4         1         2.00
Medium Laser                                 RT        3         1         1.00
Large Laser                                  LT        8         2         5.00
(R) Medium Pulse Laser                       LT        4         1         2.00
Medium Laser                                 LT        3         1         1.00
@SRM-6 (15)                                  RT        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 0

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      8    Points: 18
4          4       4       1       0      4     1   Structure:  7
Special Abilities: CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA

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Author Topic: Optimizing the Battlemaster (Read 21058 times)

Takiro

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masterarminas

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