for an average player with Gradius 3 (arc) on normal, how is getting to the boss of stage 3 as a current best? as far as getting further, its a bit of a pain to play through the first three stages just so i can get to him and practice. but i can't complain, stupid fun when i am in the mood.

EDIT: now i feel like a complete idiot (as i should), but i'll leave the question up as a testament to that... and also if you feel like answering.
