[TorpX]

Originally Posted by commandosolo2009

I will start practicing calling AOB. I dont want the plot methods anymore, since skippers used their eyes, well, I should too.. If I'm correct there was a periscope method to get the AOB and I wish if somebody lay it plain on the table.

I think eyeballing (calling AOB) and plot methods should be considered complementry; that is one assists the other. If you mean by plot methods, using map contact updates, I agree this is much easier. I know O'Kane used both his observations and info from the plot for his attacks. The plot could not eliminate the need for visual estimates of AOB, because the target was usually following a zig-zag course, and it was necessary to know the base course and be able to anticipate the next zig. If one had to rely only on stadimeter ranging and plot (without knowing AOB), a course change or zig would only become evident well after the target was into the new course. By the same token, using visual estimates alone, would leave one without a good overall view, masking errors in observation and making an effective approach or "end-around" much more difficult. In short, using both techniques together, minimizes the weaknesses of each.


If the periscope method for obtaining AOB you refer to, is what I think you mean, some have posted that there was a periscope device designed to give an AOB reading, comparable to the stadimeter. I don't know the details, but it would require knowing the length of the ship in question. Of course, it is not represented in the game. Cap'nScurvy is/ was working on something that would accomplish this type of task. Perhaps this is what you refer to? In any case, it is a handy skill to have in this game. I always found it to be fairly difficult to make a decent AOB estimate, though one improves with practice, I suppose.