Newcomer / Intro New Player here, questions about combat and buying stuff

[Derent]

Hi there. I got the game yesterday, and after making some money exploring in my Sidewinder, I decided to see what combat is like. So I found four ships that were wanted. I killed all four of them. The first three gave me bounty vouchers (which I turned in for cash), but the last one gave me an 8k bounty instead (and then I got swarmed by federation ships). Was that a bug, or is there something more to this bounty hunting thing?

Second (and somewhat related) I'm about to buy a new ship, once I get a little more money. I'm planning to trade in my slightly upgraded Sidewinder for it, and so I'm wondering if I need more money first (specifically: Do I need more money so I can buy weapons/modules for the ship, or does it come with stuff stock?).

I'd appreciate any help you folks can give me, thanks.

 

[ParaB]

If you attack a ship with wanted status that is of the same faction than the system security vessels then you will get a bounty since the local cops don't like it when you blast one of their own.

All ships come with a basic loadout of equipment. Emphasis on basic. Just keep in mind that you always should have some cash left in case you get killed and need the insurance to get your ship back. You can now take loans as additional safety measure but it's a good rule to always have enough "safe credits" to replace your current ship.