erm..... thanks ... after the last posts..can we say the 4xvets formula approximates to TA calc and is ok to use...but it may not be uber precise...

Like mms I am interested in the actual lvls to take the sailors to before classing, where are we on that one ?? 

Some estimates I provided for when to class gunners is at the start of this thread. You can refer to that for an idea of when to class them. Including the bare minimum needed to cap reload for base 13, 12 and 11 reload armament sailors, which always involves atleast full experts, some vets and a boost.

As for the TA calculation, ((vets x 4) + experts) x ability works fine as long as your sailor isnt lacking any recruits.

I thank all who provided answer for my questions. However, if I may, I'd like to know how many more vets would I need (more than 109 that is) to lower the level they will hit the reload cap, since grind to level 100 ish is indeed quite painful (especially with my poor BB driving skill) and I'd hope to use those AA gunes on Dunkerque.

Like.... Having 119 vet, what level they would hit rld cap? 129? 139? I think it's quite overkil already at this point, but if it makes life a bit more easier....

The earliest you can possible cap reload with UK armament sailors is;

Base 13, Boosted, 210 vets, 330 experts and that would require lvl 85.

If you can get your hands on 2 Hero sailors... you can drop it to 210/320 at lvl 82.

I'm going through the same with a pair of UK AA gunners of my own, but they're part of a CV crew that doesn't even have any T slots between lvl 50 and 73. But once I do get to 73, I think I'll be content having them use HH until theyre reload capped.

thanks..this has been helpful.appreciated..

Should be noted, adalberts formula for ability assumes there are NO missing recruits from the sailor, which he outlines just beneath the above quoted section of his ability guide. A simpler version of the equation that works in such a situation has been stated already by myself and Eric in previous posts.