Yeah, fixed aren't any more fun in a combat zone... Especially when in a large ship.
I'm really sorry to add another 'git gud' but I would definitely recommend giving fixed another look. I used to fly an 8 fixed pulse laser PvP Anaconda and for PvE I now tend to favour a Corvette with two huge fixed lasers.
Some points that might help with big ship fixed issues:
1. Obviously, hit scan is easier. Lasers at first.
2. The PD drain from huge lasers is, erm, huge - you don't lose much in a big ship by running a combination of fixed and gimballed as you won't usually want to fire all hard points at once. On an Anaconda, running four fixed on the bottom works well, on Corvette, two or four fixed on top.
3. If pitch rate is an issue, momentarily using FA-off and (as required) down thrust whilst pitching up will usually get you back on target.
4. If staying on target is an issue, reducing control method input sensitivity is the thing.
5. If really struggling, cranking it right back to one fixed beam that you can run continuously is the ultimate help with the aiming learning curve.
6. RNGineer mods, eg efficiency, are a thing. The less you have to time your fixed weapon(s) the easier to hit.
7. Once you
want to introduce timing, bursts lasers are good for that.
Sorry if any of the above seems patronising but it's difficult to adjust tone on forum posts.
o7
