how much damage to cannons do?

[Commander Pickle]

In the context of a fight with a python or anaconda, about how much damage does a single cannon shot (highest quality, 3C) do to a targeted powerplant?

Are we talking 20%? 50%?

Thank you to all you experienced cannon users. I'm trying to find the ideal setup for my Vulture, taking best advantage of my only 2 hardpoints.

 

[GammaZ]

IIRC it leaves something like ~56% so you will need 3 hits for anaconda. The problem is it does not always hit.
Python is another thing, sometimes it will die because of hull damage faster than you can take out powerplant...
While beam+cannon is fun and somewhat logical solution dual pulse is more effective IMO. Unlimited ammo and reliability...
You can also try PA instead of cannon, it is easier to hit, does more damage and can also damage shield unlike cannon, but requires a lot of power...

 

[Crimson Kaim]

In my FDL, I use a C4 (sorry don't have a large hardpoint ) fixed cannon. One good hit deals around 50%-65% damage to the power plant. So two good shots (which mainly turn out to be 2 bad ones and 2 good ones) and bye bye conda.
However, it is easier to kill a conda due to its lack of mobility and the giant hitbox. The Python is harder to hit but in a cuddle fight, still possible.

 

[Ant_Solo]

I have run a fixed pulse laser and a gimballed canon on my Vulture and it is one of my favorite load-outs, but it isn't the most efficient one. Two pulse lasers is by far the most efficient, adding the canon makes it more fun though.

 

[Morbad]

In the context of a fight with a python or anaconda, about how much damage does a single cannon shot (highest quality, 3C) do to a targeted powerplant?

Depends on the quality of the PP and the angle you hit them from. An A8 PP on an Anaconda will need about four direct hits from a C3 cannon, and usually three from a C4.

Anyway, as has been stated, the best all-round loadout on a Vulture is a pair of pulse lasers.