Attack periscope VS observation periscope

[teg916]

So I was doing some reading and come to find out, the observation periscope is actually a different periscope than the attack periscope.

Can someone tell me, are there any advantages of using 1 over the other? Obviously I have to use the attack periscope for targeting, but is one easier for enemy ships to spot or something? Or is it just a matter of preference?

I did notice the attack periscope has more zoom.

[Task Force]

I doubt which you use matters in the game...

[ReallyDedPoet]

From an earlier thread:

This link (http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showpost.php?p=1069373&postcount=7)

By the way, welcome to SUBSIM :yep::up:

[YukonJack_AK]

As far is actual in-game action is concerned... the attack scope has the higher zoom levels which makes targeting at long range easier (obviously), but the observation scope can be swung around so you can scan the sky above you for planes before surfacing (I do that all the time) and the 1x Zoom is perfect for targeting in really crappy weather or at night.

BTW - That was some really neat historical insight from Hitman... I didn't know all that. Cool ;)

[Sailor Steve]

Real-Life: As RDP's link to Hitman's post points out, they actually had the same zoom levels. The attack scope's head was smaller, which made it harder to spot but also meant that it let in less light, so was useless at night. The Obersvation scope was better at night, but still not as good as a surface attack when it was really dark. As mentioned, the O-scope also cranked up almost 90 degrees to aid looking for planes before surfacing.

But the Observation scope's main advantage was location. The Attack scope was in the conning tower and had a powered rotating mechanism. The O-scope was in the control room where the captain could put it up now instead of having to climb up into the tower.

Of course that means nothing when you can press the 'F3' or 'O' button on a keyboard. To get a feel for what it really entails, don't use the keys, but use the mouse to actually make all the moves when you use the Attack Scope. Then you will see what the Observation Scope is really for.