clones make sure that when you die (pod destroyed) you dont lose any exp that you earned. For instance if someone blew up your ship you are out of a ship, but if someone killed your ship then blew up your pod and "you" died then you lose some exp.
I would buy a clone that will be over you exp limit. also buy insurance for your ship.. if you get blown up the insurace company will give you money.
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buy a clone... i have collected 10 clones so far.. if you piss me off i will blow your ship up and your pod and save your corps as a trophy.