Why docking ports and not the Claw?

[Reddeyfish]

Docking ports definitely have a niche. Klaws can only be mounted on the end of a rocket, since you can't attach stuff on top of them, whereas docking ports can double as decouplers.

I personally like putting the docking port on the tip of a rocket, placing a nosecone and upside down fairing base on top of it, and being able to undock and get rid of all the aero stuff without having to do a full stage seperation.

[Sharpy]

Klaws can only be mounted on the end of a rocket,.

With Cubic Octagonal Struts, anything can be the end of a rocket.

On a side note, yesterday, by chance, I invented a universal port. Well, moderately universal - accepting both Jr. and medium ports.

My orbital stations are based mostly on MK2 parts. That includes the MK2 radial docking port, the kind openable like an MK2 bay. Well, I thought the blank reverse side is a waste and put a Jr. port there... except I forgot to switch symmetry off. Another one landed right on top.

Long story short, if you activate (open) the port, the actual port extends forward far enough to be able to couple with standard ports, despite the Jr. staying there in the middle. If you keep the bay closed, the Jr. port is active.

[tutike2000]

Docking ports are useful for maintaining low engine torque.

When docked, they will tend to keep your craft aligned properly, assuming your docking ports are placed on the main stack.

Using the klaw can mean your craft ends up being asymmetrical.