Ka-50 Newbie Guide Thread

[BBQ]

Someone had the great idea to ask the community to create PDF's that would help the newbie pilot get their feet wet in the A10C. I thought it would be great to do this for the Blackshark as well--and so I'll post the first PDF (pdf only please). I couldn't find a similar thread specifically for newbies, so hope this isn't repetative. In particular, this thread should expose some of the common frustrations western pilots have coming from the F-16, F/A 18, etc. My first PDF has to do with trim and autopilot. I hope a lot of the A10C pilots will consider flying the Blackshark as well--I find it more challenging than the A10C, but seem to get more satisfaction out of the Blackshark. Good luck!

newbie_guide.pdf

[oceanoftimeGER]

Hi BBQ, thanks for the PDF. I started learning to fly the A-10C about a month ago and I got so into it that I've now also decided to learn to fly the Ka-50. I am loving it so far, especially TrackIR coupled with the helmet sight and Shkval.

 

I wish the Ka-50 had more complex avionics like the A-10C because it was really fun learning that (and I still only have the basics down) but I am really digging the bird either way.

[BBQ]

OceanoftimeGER--glad you liked it.

 

What do you mean by "more complex avionics"? I find the Ka-50 systems more complex myself--but could just be personal preference!

[Shez]

The ABRIS is pretty complicated. I haven't even tried to dive into that yet. But the KA50 is pretty much point and shoot. Well, once you can point it that is!

 

Master arm on.

Select weapon.

Laser to stand bye.

Select attack mode.

Find target.

Lock Target.

Point.

Shoot.

 

A10C Is point and shoot once you get everything set up. Maybe it's the new training missions in A10 that make it seem easier? Very hands on instructor there. He's even nice enough to shine his flash light on the correct buttons, switches and/or dial! Makes learning the different systems pretty easy.

[BBQ]

Shez--agreed--the training was definately a step-up with the warthog. I guess what I meant was operating the avionics is more complex, for me. The preflight prep on the hog makes it simple once you're ready to pound some ground--but yeah, it's a lot more sophisticated than the shark.

 

BTW--you left out some steps there ;) Plus you throw in the helmet mounted site--auto slewing with shkval, tracking gate size, etc.--it's a more primitive setup, and is harder to complete for me, than to employ weapons in the hog. I love both--but one is circa 1980, the other around 2000? Not quite sure when "C" started coming out.

 

The datalink on the shark is pretty cool--seemingly ahead of its time. Again, task intensive though--unlike the hog.

 

I went back to the shark for a stretch to wait for patch--hoping the JTAC works a little better. I've found I love flying the advanced instant missions--ramp start, etc.--but often the JTAC doesn't have anything for me. Hoping that changes, and am chomping at the bit.

[Shez]

Yeah I don't allways use the Helmet sight. Either way they are both fun. I just need to get A10 working again. Plagued with problems after my last OS reload. Wheee! Flight Sims!