WoW newbie looking for advice

[Mirajj]

Top DPS Hunter is Beastmastery spec? Hmm, is that because of Serpent's Swiftness? 'Cause that's why I went for it.:)

Also, I'm guessing it's because the pet becomes an absolute killing machine. Mine is already.

There are a several reasons, actually. Serpents Swiftness is one. A BM Hunter's shot cycle is much more forgiving and sustainable. It's also quite easy to find a ranged weapon in the proper speed frame. While you will vastly outdamage your pet (you better...) the Kill Command and good Ferocious Inspiration procs (I can keep mine up pretty much 100% of a fight, these days) all add up to some pretty sweet damage out.