Why do people choose the lasers in Gradius?

[KentaRawr!]

I don't get it. Why would you not go with the double? Is there some kind of property to the lasers that I'm missing here?

Anyway, which upgrade in Gradius is the best one?

[Flying Mullet]

Because they're frickin' lasers, man!

[JKTrix]

Because they're frickin' lasers, man!

Truth. Plus, at least in Gradius V, swirling your options while shooting the lasers looks awesome.

[Evastio]

I feel that Lasers are both faster and stronger than the standard bullets.

I usually prioritize speed, lasers, missiles, options, and shields in that order. Shield priority changes to between speed and laser if the Gradius game doesn't destroy your shield from being too close to the ground.

[black orb]

>>> Speed> Missile> Double> Laser> Option> Shield> > ???.

[Captain Maxx Power]

Options are where it's at. You can shoot directly at an enemy without having to worry about being in the line of fire and can cover more of the screen at the same time. I usually hold out for Options over the Shield.

[Flying Mullet]

Options are also nice for clearing the ground and ceiling without having to get too close (I like the two above/two below option).

[Momiji]

Konami Code, man. I'm not too big on horizontal shooters, so whatever makes it easier for me is great.

[Necronopticous]

If you're only using one, you need some practice.