Fed Escort

[gtnasty]

I'm starting a Fed toon and going escort.  I'm still pretty new to this game so any advice on builds, ships, and skills to use is appreciated.

Thanks!

[Trudard]

Once you have a build started, post it on a planner.

Some general advice- Stick to one weapon and energy type. Work on rep sets and any rep weapons that match your build

[gtnasty]

Ok will do.  For the most part though looking for suggestions on what type of weapons to use, ie beams, cannons, dual cannons, etc..  
What's the main difference between the weapon/energy types?  Is there one that's better than the other?

[James]

Ok will do.  For the most part though looking for suggestions on what type of weapons to use, ie beams, cannons, dual cannons, etc..  
What's the main difference between the weapon/energy types?  Is there one that's better than the other?

Really that depends on the ship you are using.

Science ships tend to run beams, or on a few occasions turrets.
Cruisers and Dreadnoughts tend to run beams and broadside, since they are slow turning.
Escorts tend to use Dual Cannons/Dual Beams Fore and Turrets Aft. Some people also use Escorts to run Torpedo builds.

This is only a generalisation, should you wish to do something different that is up to you!

In terms of energy types, it is down to personal preference. You can find a quick guide to each energy type and what they do here: http://www.stoacademy.com/guides/weapons.php