PvP Dual Focused or long range FAS any tips?

[CMDR Plexus Ironrot]

Basically what is on the tin

How can I maximize the focused pas and tolerate the heat
Or should I go the Long range route? What are some of the downsides of running the build on the FAS?

For reference I am currently using a dual Eff PA

 

[Sup3rfluiD]

There are some tradeoffs involved here that imo may not really be that beneficial if you're PvP focussed.
The upsides are shot speed and distributer draw but the dps reduction is quite significant.
Of the two I prefer focussed over long range but if you're fighting 1v1 duels you will struggle against the dps of a properly built and skilled opponent.
Heat can be countered by thermal vent beams on the c2's but in all honesty the heat has never been a significant issue especially since the heat damage nerf .

 

[cmdr Ramius007]

I use FAS with 3 LR/Focus PA without legacy mods and gimbal MC. I play on stick and for me it beats plasma/rail FAS, and i would go as far to say its META for FAS.
Trade-offs are...
1.You MUST use max grade low emissions PP, that leaves you vulnerable to stacked rail gun builds.
2.Distributor can barely sustain boosts and firing, so preferably you should run shieldless, i recently tried low draw single booster bi-weaves, but results not conclusive so far, its definitely not easy.
3.you lose some firepower vs easier to hit targets as well as your total dmg, you are not compering vs 2-3 eff PA but rather vs 1-2eff and 1SR/OC.

Advantages are obvious, your Time on target (ToT) skyrockets, as well as your effective engagement range, you can apply TLB and dispersal more often that affects negatively your opponent. Both are huge + and IMO its worth it.