Cee64
What a couple of the guys might trying to point out is that if you continue to take the HO shots you will remain "not a great stick and get shot down a lot" . While you are shooting on the merge (and most likely missing) , your opponent has already gained an unassailable position on your 6. When you begin to realise that taking a HO shot negates your opportunity to perform a position winning lead turn (which is basically the most important maneuver in a 1-1 dogfight) you might then have a chance of becoming a good stick. Try it - and then tell 10 friends ![Wink ;)](http://bbs.hitechcreations.com/smf/Smileys/default/wink.gif)
Surprisingly, I usually get shot from behind by somebody who simply beat me in the merge and got on my six, or someone I never saw in the first place. I'm still learning, and lead turns take a little more judgement than I've learned just yet. I'll get it, never doubt it. Until then though, I'm willing to take a calculated risk. I'm not the guy who typically runs off to land every kill; scoreing isn't that big a deal. I enjoy the combat for itself. Besides, it's not like I'm going to die...
I once heard that the greatest swordsman does not fear the second greatest, him he knows. The greatest swordsman fears the novice who may do something crazy and get lucky.
![Thumbs UP! :aok](http://bbs.hitechcreations.com/smf/Smileys/default/thumbsup.gif)
Thanks for the advice though.