Buffs arent hard to shoot down, but you need to practice a lead shooting technique, you cant just go in dead 6 level. Try a pass from high 3 or 9 with alt, then dive for the pass, pull lead as you come through. Stay fast. Fighters are very hard to hit if the gunner has to adjust his aim while you are also diving and pulling a lead turn. Cannons work best of course. Have some patience, it pays off.