Manual targeting: need an explanation.

[P_Funk]

Originally Posted by CaptainAsh

but my range estimation is often wrong by 10 to 15%.

How are you getting your range? When I'm surfaced I use the Watch Officer to give me range up to 100 meters and I use to the stadimeter to get it more accurate. That way I know its usually right so long as the stadimeter reading is inside the same 100 meters that my watch officer told me.

Range isn't that important but its helpful, especially for plotting the target's course and getting his speed that way. I as often as possible prefer to get the target's course and speed by plotting his position on the map and using a timer. That way I can monitor his course for an extended period of time and use multiple observations to get a concrete data base. This isn't necessary for lone merchants, but for a convoy its nice since you can just take target course and figure out the AoB. Thats good for night attacks when the ship profile can be hard to see.

AoB calculation from Target Course is:
Target True Bearing (Bearing Due North) - Target Course +/- 180

Target True Bearing = Target Bearing - Your Course

That can be useful for planning a surgical convoy attack or, if you're like me, have a crappy monitor.