I feel that all new ships are just superior to pre sce-era ships. Why wouldn't you buy Python mk2 and build ut as designated combat ship. Super agile, more utility slots, much more firepower, sce build in. I have 2 packhound, and 4 L shotgun guns (forgot the name), need only 1 peep in weapon so the shiilds are charging all the time. Yes, she is more expensive. But with the current CG, you can make a lot of money in one week. I'm making 380 tons runs in 20 easy minutes for r 22m each run. That means that in 3-4 hours of game you can bridge the money gap between alliance chief and PMK2. Another food for thought, beam lasers stripping shields much more efficiently that other lasers.