Blackjack BJ-1DC

Overview
This model of the venerable Blackjack removes the Jump Jets of the Blackjack BJ-1 in favor of two Small Lasers. Mobility and heat efficiency are reduced slightly, but the design has more overall firepower.

Strengths
The Blackjack BJ-1DC's most notable feature may be its arms. Weapons fired from there will fire from shoulder level and make firing from behind cover easy for pilots. When compared to the similar Blackjack BJ-1, the BJ-1DC mounts two extra energy Hardpoints in the torsos. This allows pilots to rely more on the lighter energy weapons that are more effective on lighter 'Mechs. The lack of lower arm and hand actuators also frees up additional critical space for equipment. Finally, the relatively low cap on mountable engines means it has roughly the same free tonnage as a heavier Hunchback.

Weaknesses
The most glaring problem that this, and most Blackjacks, may have is the low top speed of the design. With the stock 180 rated engine it comes with, it's barely faster than some assault 'Mechs. At most, the top speed can be increased to 84kph before speed tweak. The arms may also pose some risk at close range. Without lower arm actuators, it is less able to deal with threats quickly at close range. The torso merely average torso twist range does not help the situation.