Don't give up on your valiant steed yet Roman
Flying the Pony takes patience, skill, and yet more patience. But once you master these skills, a Pony driver is untouchable.
Sharky is the trainer that comes immediately to mind when it comes to the P-51, but they are all very good pilots that can teach you what you want too know.
A couple of Pony tips (very basic ones)
1.)Take off from a rear field, away from the fight. I take 50% fuel, and x2 drop tanks. One drop tank I drop right away, the other should be plenty to get you to 25,000ft and to the combat zone. Then you can drop the other and never worry about fuel.
2.)Never enter the combat area without at least 22,000 ft under you !
3.)Never turn more than 180 degrees (preferably 90 degrees) to get a shot, extend and come back later.
4.)If the fight starts to get below 10,000ft start to plan your escape strategy. If your below 5,000ft you should have already run away
5.)Set all guns to convergence of 300. Never fire until the range indicator reads under 400, then lay on the fire button until you break off. Very little lead is required with .50's.
6.) When in doubt, RUN AWAY !!!!
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Vermillion
**MOL**, Men of Leisure
"Real Men fly Radials, Nancy Boys fly Spitfires"
[This message has been edited by Vermillion (edited 05-11-2000).]
