as we wait for more O-12 models and sectorials to be released lets open up another line of discussion to pass the time. since epsilon snipers exist for 2 points cheaper why would you take knauf?
Because you can and because you maybe want to play your favorite character after having read Outrage. Do you need other reason? Because if it's about optimization then maybe the epsilon should be nerfed so that you feel it's worth playing Knauf? As with any merc, it is an extra you are free to play or not; instead of an integral part of your list that needs a specific optimization for you to play that unit.
Also, theoretically, a modicum of CC ability, mobility and Stealth. But most of all, I'm low-key happy that a general merc is less well optimized than in-faction alternatives for some, but not all, of the factions where he's available.
Knauf is a merc – the whole point of them is to bring a generalized decent profile for a premium cost to all factions. He isn't better than the Epsilon, you would never take him over the epsilon.
I once tested it over an Epsilon, and while he called pretty good shots, thanks to his marksmanship, he's definetly less interesting for O-12 than in other factions. between Lynx and Epsilon, even Dakini under steroids, we are not the lesser army when it comes to the sniper game. Knauf is just another option, but just not the most efficient - but the coolest? maybe.
imo knauf is trash take the mini and proxy epsilon profile. the only thing that is better is 4-4 multiterrain mobility can be a thing for a sniper but you need a fireteam to go on an active rampage, i'm using a lot kamau sniper and taagma viral sniper in active turn because they hit hard with fireteam bonuses but anyway knauf can't be in fireteam just don't take him ^^
The biggest problem remains that class of troops. Unlinked Snipers without a defining feature (i.e. TO), link access or lack of a HMG option to cover long ranged combat have been pretty disappointing this edition. For a MSV carrier you'd usually want the MSV2 and a HMG for Active, because that just ends up with better synergy, or the Link and no equivalent HMG option to begin with (i.e. Brawler, Haidao, Kamau). MSV1 excludes Smoke synergy completely, lack of a Marker State and Link kills the ARO part. Knauf is just not occupying a good place to sit in as far as game mechanics are concerned. Lunah on the other hand has defining features and is low on competition on top of MMSLX being fairly good to get some long range Active Turn shooting done with a Sniper Rifle lacking a Link. So yeah, take the Epsilon HMG for Active, the Epsilon MSR if you already have a HMG and want another or the Lynx MSR if you want to ARO.
Well, it's not really that you are gonna use that multiterrain, now are you? You don't wanna run with him too much especially towards enemy, he like any sniper is more like place him in a god spot and use orders to shoot unless he dies.
