"I can't counter this specialized tank destroyer with tanks! Also I'm going to assume my opponent outplays me at every turn while I theorycraft using other counters."
Smoke and flank is applicable here.
Hard to argue with you since you didn't even bother to read my arguments. Is it really theorycraft to say if he goes JPIV that the other player will get some form of indirect fire to deal with AT guns. As you describe it, any discussion is automatically theorycraft since it is based upon hypothetical situations. My point is how common, and devastating a simple JPIV in combination with indirect fire is, too effective for cost.
JPIV hard counters tanks, I get that, but that does not mean tanks should not exist when a JPIV appears or that my TD should be completely nullified. He gets a solid AT platform, not one that prevents tank play at the 8 minute mark.
Smoke and flank do not apply here because, as I already discussed, JPIV is one of the most difficult TD to flank because of its immense vet bonuses and the plethora of AT options available to the faction. How else would you flank a unit with mobility if not with tanks?
Also smoke used offensive, which is literally restricted to Americans, is not excuse enough to protect overperforming mechanics.
You make it sound like I have limited experience in this game. I am telling you from a player who uses the JPIV regularly that it is too good. It is too easy to get vet with, and at high vet it is far too effective.