OP, I know what you mean, I too have 'plateaud' on the Krait II also, it is just so good, and easy to adapt to just about anything.
I have a Python and, great ship though it is, the Krait just seems to handle better, and of course responds even better than the Python to engineering.
So, I deliberately tried the Phantom instead for AX work in the AX CGs. That too responds really well to engineering for tough armour, shields and getting the most out of two AX multicannon and engineered rail guns. Handles magnificently well !
So that's the two Kraits ... I have most of the other ships up to a Cutter (which is poorly equipped at present), and maybe I will get those out once in a while, but the lure of the Kraits is always there.