Is the F4U-1...

[Saxman]

I largely agree with your assessment, but with one major modification:

Don't expect to beat a Ki-84, La-7, or any Spit but the Mk.I and MAYBE the Mk.V in a normal straight climb. The F4U-1A's max standard rate of climb starting at top speed with WEP engaged is about 3500fpm at sea-level and gradually decreases from there. Granted, the average rate of climb (comes in close to around 3000fpm, I think, averaged over the full range from the deck to 20,000) isn't too bad.

However, where the 1A excels is the the ZOOM climb. There's few, if any, planes that will catch the 1A, 1D and especially the -4 in the zoom. I know I've caught a few fleeing P-51s, La-7s and pursuing Spixteens by surprise when they see me shoot up like a rocket on them and left 'em hanging on their props.

[TequilaChaser]

Originally posted by Saxman

However, where the 1A excels is the the ZOOM climb. There's few, if any, planes that will catch the 1A, 1D and especially the -4 in the zoom. I know I've caught a few fleeing P-51s, La-7s and pursuing Spixteens by surprise when they see me shoot up like a rocket on them and left 'em hanging on their props.

Yep, Saxman, last night, I was flying in LWB south between A18/A19 and encountered a high F4U-1A ( high as in a few K alt over me, not an Alt Monkey).....anyhows I was in the F4U-1.he was working me over pretty well, eating up my E with his zoom climbs each pass, when I felt I was about to get in hot water , I would break off and extend..trying to set him up in a drag/overshoot situation.......He kept at it for awhile and I finally I guess he got bored or over zealous, he allowed me to reverse and cut back into him,  and I managed to close the gap then in a crossing shot got him.....if he would have managed to hold out another minute or two, may have been me on the receiving end, only thing is  IF never comes to past .......

Mugz...~S~ you flew a very thoughtout E Fight until you just gave in, is only way I can explain how I came out alive ......

[SuBWaYCH]

That might have been me in that Corsair Tequilla

[Saxman]

The funny thing about the P-51s and La-7s I've run down in the zoom climb is that they were OPENING on me while flying level.