Scimitar

the Scimitar aka Bounty Hunters Special

Scimitar
Size (metres, W×H×L)	100 x 17.5 x 73
Cargo capacity	5 TC
Cargo bay extension	Yes
Maximum speed	0.410 LM
Manoeuvrability	Roll: 2.25 Pitch: 1.25
Energy banks	4
Energy recharge rate	Good (4.5)
Gun mounts	Fore, Aft
Missile slots	4
Shield boosters available	Yes
Military shields available	Yes
Hyperspace capable	Yes
OXP or standard	OXP
Available to player	Yes
Base price	500000 Cr

Overview

With GalCop spread thin due to increasing piracy, efforts were made to recruit civilian bounty hunters to help stem the tide. However, after a period of time and the loss of lives and their investment, it became obvious that the average bounty hunter was ill-equipped to stand up against combat hardened criminals commanding superior ships and weaponry. It was debated whether to suspend the program or invest even more time and money. With pressure from local authorities and promises of financial assistance, it was decided to expand the program. There were those opposed to the plan, in particular the part about constructing a new "Pirate Hunter" ship. They felt this was totally unnecessary and a waste of money, but they were in the minority.

That new ship, the Bounty Hunters Special, was drafted by ZPG and let out on bids. The primary requisite was speed, so it was designed to sport two banks of four engines. In theory, given the right installation, the ship should be able to cruise along at .4 LM if not faster. Thrust factor would be more than adequate for nimble maneuvering or closing pursuit. Naturally, with much of the crafts interior used to house the propulsion system, cargo space was limited. Since bounty hunters barely subsist on their trade, it was decided to free up room for an extra cargo bay by eliminating port and starboard laser mounts. Foreword and aft laser mounts would be fitted with military lasers. The energy plant would be adequate for a ship of this size, about the same as a Cobra Mark III. It was deemed those who commanded her would live by their skill and wits, not by a supposed invincibility.

When the bids were opened, the winner was Xeceesian Shipyards. They were in dire financial straights and desperately needed this contract or face bankruptcy. Some board members and executives had already begun looking for new positions. Production began smoothly at first then began to stutter as suppliers were not getting paid. Only 500 units had been delivered when the space doors were closed for good. Thereafter the craft was known as "the Scimitar", the sword that cut the throat of its maker. Production continues at various shipyards across the eight to this day, but quality varies considerably and the same can be said of their clientele.

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Copperhead OXP.