Dr. Warthog or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Study Flight Sim

[republic]

lol thank you tgb, I have very eclectic tastes...and it seemed fitting.  :)

[GDS_Starfury]

just more proof that the Apache is the better helo.

[Nefaro]

just more proof that the Apache is the better helo.

Certainly. 

As SDR mentioned, it's a pain in the ass getting a target lock with the purely visual targeting system on the Black Shark when moving.  Despite the helmet-mounted sight to assist, you still have to attempt targeting something that's moving through your view and then fine-tune your acquisition brackets even after that.  With an Apache you can just pop on the radar and choose your target - much faster & easier.   ;D  The apache also has a proper turret for it's gun, and a bit wider range of armaments available. 

But I don't mind slumming it with lower-tech Russian equipment; got it's own charm.  I still can't make high speed missile attacks, either, but have to find cover and do pop-up or sideslip attacks in the Black Shark. 

I've not fired up BS in awhile because I think it was prompting me to update to the new 'world' software that DCS has integrated everything into.  I was suspicious about it turning into a pain in the ass (and/or borking one of my activation licenses) in the process so have put it off.

[Huw the Poo]

I need to stop reading this thread; it's putting me off trying Black Shark! :(

[Nefaro]

I need to stop reading this thread; it's putting me off trying Black Shark! :(

It can be challenging but still very fun.

[republic]

I'm currently reading Dan Hampton's "Viper Pilot:  The Autobiography of One of America's Most Decorated Combat Pilots" and its really making me want to learn Falcon BMS...

[republic]

Well I got BMS up and running and took my check ride in the F-16..and I quickly realized the keyboard layout map located in the BMS folder was not accurate.  So I've found a friendlier keymap, printed it out, and placed it in my Study Flight Sim Cheat Folder (SFSCF).  It seems fitting to give my materials complicated acronyms.  SFSCF version 1.0 section 1 pages 1 & 2 (henceforth known as SFSCF 1.0.1.1-2) are my keymaps for BMS Falcon.

SFSCF 1.0.2.1-2 will have my DCS keymaps.

SFSCF 1.0.3+ is Tango Uniform and ETA is TBD

[jomni]

I applaud your seriousness in learning these sims.

[Slick Wilhelm]

I played a lot of Falcon 3.0 and 4.0 in my day, but I'm a prop head at heart, and my small brain can only handle so much complexity. That's why Rise of Flight is perfect for me.

[Toonces]

Republic,
I don't know what HOTAS you are using, but if you have the CH stick/throttle/pedals there is an excellent profile by Rogue that I use.  Let me know if you need more guidance or a link...

[republic]

Toonces I'm using a Saitek X52, that really needs to be replaced.  The dual trigger button has a broke button, so it is now a single trigger, and I lost the lower pinky button to my failed attempt to repair the trigger button.  :)

I keep considering a CH set...but I don't really have the room to leave the equipment out for extended periods so I prefer a twisty rudder.  I'll probably save up for another Saitek HOTAS this year.

[Rekim]

I need to stop reading this thread; it's putting me off trying Black Shark! :(

It can be challenging but still very fun.

I'll second that. I'd even go so far as to call Blackshark the most fun I've ever had with a sim.

A couple of tips for increasing your 'pilot' life expectancy and enjoyment
-head tracker = MUST
-I recommend mapping the trimmer reset button to your HOTAS, but only use in emergencies
-staying out of range of enemy weapons should be priority #1

Learning the trimming system puts a real load on the brain, adding to the challenge of mastering other systems. The armaments aren't all that difficult to employ one you get past fighting with the avionics. Now that I'm comfortable with working the trim I have few problems with coming to a hover.

[republic]

I'm having some trouble with the A-10, I can't get the Maverick to power up.  I've followed the directions (I think).  It says "Not SOI" and when I press and hold the coolie as the manual says...nothing happens.  I can set SOI on the laser pod and it works fine, but not the Maverick.  Any ideas?

[jomni]

Did you turn on the maverick on the MAV page?
Instructions are in page 566 of the manual.

[republic]

Thanks Jomni, I wasn't giving the missile long enough to align.  I'm finding A-10 much easier to get into than Blackshark.  Once I get the A-10 down, I plan to try BMS Falcon.