Gearing Line (Standard build)
- This is a general purpose build that puts emphasis on both USN DDs’ weapon systems, allowing them to both contest caps reasonably well and deal damage to larger ships.
- Ovechkin is a good captain for all USN DDs because of his improved SE skill.
- Dedicated Tier 5-7 DDs can trade Fill the Tubes for IFHE to increase their HE pen to 26mm, allowing them to rapidly chew through T7 and below BBs
- If you don’t have the Engine boost mod, use ERP.
- Applies to Sampson, Wickes, Smith, Clemson, Nicholas, Hill, Farragut, Mahan, Sims, Benson, Fletcher, Gearing, Joshua Humphreys.
Strategy Guide
The Gearing is a Tier X universal-type destroyer that serves as the pinnacle of the USN DD line. While the line starts as close-range gunboats, it undergoes an identity change at high tiers, with the Gearing ultimately functioning as a torpedo-focused destroyer.
Its playstyle revolves around the following core elements:
Primary Roles
- Contesting Capture Zones: In the early game, your job is to contest caps and use your gunpower to force enemy destroyers away.
- Spotting and Area Denial: You act as a scout for large enemy ships and use your "better and better" torpedoes for area denial.
- Support: Utilize your very long smoke duration to provide cover for yourself or allies.
Combat and Gunnery
- Identity Shift: Unlike the lower tiers, the Gearing’s gun DPM is considered average for a Tier X destroyer. Consequently, you should employ stealth torping more often and be more selective about gun engagements.
- Worst-in-Class Ballistics: Because its shell ballistics are poor, the optimal engagement distance against other destroyers is as close as possible (ideally under 9 km).
- Armor Advantage: The Gearing features a slightly improved 21 mm armor belt, which provides a small survivability edge over some peers.
Tactical Positioning
- Capping Technique: When entering a cap, you should have your stern pointed towards the enemy (either by reversing in or turning out before stopping) to allow for a quick escape.
- Radar Awareness: Before entering a capture zone, you must identify enemy radar positions; if they are unaccounted for, assume they are at your cap and avoid being hasty.
- Smoke Management: When farming from smoke, always point your ship away from the likely direction of incoming torpedoes and keep your engine boost running to accelerate out of danger quickly.