I try to avoid it whenever possible. Can't always get that way.
That is practical, I'd avoid the HO whenever you can. Really, it just gives your opponent the opportunity to shoot at you. Gives you a 50/50 chance of survival.
The opponent who is dead set on a the HO is at a disadvantage after the first pass, especially if you can lead turn him. Yes he'll get the first high angle snap shot on you, but you can usually make them miss with some precaution.
When you think about it, the HO opponent is only thinking of that first shot, not the 3 or 4 moves into the dogfight. That can be a big advantage to you. Use the high or low yo-yo for example, or split S before the merge as your first move.
High E planes are best to stay close on the merge, low E planes and you should try to keep separation to get the turn fight started.
But yes, sometimes you just can't avoid it. In that case you have to shoot, at least you have a chance then. The only other result is getting shot at without mounting a defense.. Or a collision.
Good luck
