So, before I get started, I will clearly state that I am NOT a n00b, I play as ChemicalHex on Johari, and am on the leaderboard for the Vanu empire, last i checked. Now that we got that out of the way for the flaming 12 year olds, I'll start my rant.
The Lasher, when used correctly, will still get you alot of kills. At a medium range, the Lasher will destroy most people using a minichaingun or Jackhammer. In my hands, and the hands of those in my outfit. At close range you can sometimes get lucky due to lag or what not.
I do agree that the Lasher is not the best heavy weapon. I believe the Jackhammer takes that title. The Jackhammer (which i affectionally call "The n00b cannon") can easily mow down infantry with ease in most situations. However, when firing down a long hallway, the Lasher will destroy any and all infantry. They have nowhere to run. 4 direct hits with those orbs will kill an agile. And REGARDLESS of what anyone says, the lashing effect is more powerful than you think.
I usually run backwards and strafe when fighting someone with a Jack or a Chaingun outdoors, and half the time I emerge victorious with half my life still remaining. I then promptly jack their weapon
But there are times when I will pass up a Jackhammer or a Minichaingun (which I call the Fun Gun) because when used correctly, annhilates everyone in my path.
All the Lasher needs is a slight speed boost to the orbs. Nothing huge. This will make it more user friendly than it currently is, and casual/newer players will have more fun using it and won't immediately regard it as "ghey" or "teh suck". Remember, it's not the weapon, but the person using it that counts.