So since I have returned I have been lurking and looking at different types of weapon loadouts, and ive settled on either Anitproton or Tetryon for my Fleet escort, what do others feel about either of these, AP seems Critty and Tets smash shields.

I would use phasers instead of Tetryon on an escort

On anything but a tac/escort I would use phaser, but because you are in a tac/escort I think the cost of using antiproton can be fully justified.

As for tetryon? Why not, I say. Loads of hits=more chance of proc affecting, which in tetryons case is damage to shield facings.

Personally, I use antiprotons on one of mine, and disruptors on the other.

Get yourself a quantum torpedo and load the rest of your forward slots with plasma DHCs. Plasma DoT's the hull even through shields so in terms of raw killing power it has an edge in TTKs. Quantum torps do great damage and reload quickly.

In your aft slots load up some plasma turrets to supplement your forward DPS. I also use the cloaked tractor mines in the rear to help me shake anything that gets on my six. The tractor mines combined with Evasive Maneuvers III lets you quickly reposition to attack just about anything.

My question is though is the loss of a 4th dual heavy worth a torpedo?

I've been running aft turrets, 4 heavy dual tet cannons and they tend to melt anything I aim at, but heavent tried a front torp to see the diff, and would have to respec to test. Mainly with the borg missions and RAs because vs a normal ship they rarely surivive more than 2 volley's of my cannons with no shields. Only a flagship survives more than 6 cannon burst rounds.

3 cannons 1 torpedo for an escort is standard setup. Torpedo do higher crit hits and damage at the same time if buffed up.