Flaps

[sntslilhlpr6601]

Good info 

Just curious: did any vets actually use flaps for maneuvering during combat? The flaps of most American planes seem to be specifically designed for maneuvering, but I never heard about any flap usage in combat.

[Ack-Ack]

Good info 

Just curious: did any vets actually use flaps for maneuvering during combat? The flaps of most American planes seem to be specifically designed for maneuvering, but I never heard about any flap usage in combat.

Yes they did.


ack-ack

[Saxman]

F4U and F6F pilots would frequently set two notches of flaps before engaging. Because the flaps were spring-loaded, they would automatically drop when the airspeed decreased, and blow back up as airspeed increased. I'd LOVE to have that capability in here.

The N1K2 had automatically deploying combat flaps.

Combat is also why the P-51 and P-47 have flaps that can deploy one notch at such high speeds.

[MaSonZ]

Hard numbers are nice but don't rely on them. Go by feel. As you gain familiarity with an aircraft you'll be able to tell when to drop a notch of flaps without needing to look at your airspeed. That's MUCH more effective, especially when using flaps for maneuvering where timing is the key.

well said, and i do this alot in my F4U. i know first notch is about 250ish, if i dont hear the flap noise i reduce throttle till i "feel" im below 250.

Back to OP, I dont really have a time to use flaps, i just use them, to dump E in a scissor, get some extra lift in a vert, on a rope, in a loop, turn tighter circles, try for better angles, take off and landing on CV's.