Originally posted by Pongo:
If the D9 is really that popular it will feel it in perk points next tour. That will level it a bit.
LOL, you are funny, Pongo ;?D .Firstly, the Dora-9 is one of the most anticipated a/c to enter the planeset in the history of AH. It's only natural that for the 1st couple of months at least, it's going to be used a LOT.
Secondly, if the D-9 were to be perked, then fighters like the P-51 (especially the 'B') & G-10 for their medium-hi alt performance & the La-7 for its low alt performance (btw, for those who say the La-7 performs well at low-alt only, check out at what alt it achieves its max TAS at).
Thirdly, if the popularity of a particular a/c in AH is a yardstick as to whether it should be perked or not, the F4U-1C, N1K2-J, and even the Spit IX would *all* be perked immediately.
Finally, I know that there is some frustration re: most Dora drivers not using their machine to its fullest (or anywhere near)in a fight at the moment.However, have a little patience.Many of these ppl are used to the Fw 190A, or as is the case occasionally, they are Chog/N1K/Spit drivers hoping to sample what they hope will be their new über dweeb-machine.
Having a machine that handles a lot like an A-8 but has the speed & acceleration/climb closer to that of a G-10 takes some practice to get used to.
Some ppl have referred to the D-9's armament as 'light'. Personally,IMHO, the C.202 has light armament.The Bf 109F-4 has light armament.The Dora-9 does not have light armament.The destructive potential of its 2 x 13mm heavy MGs & 2 x 20mm Mausers is similar to that of a P-51D. Where fighters armed with banks of 12.7mm Brownings have the advantage is that they can make relatively long range & high deflection shots because of the M2's high muzzle velocity.
Some have pointed out the fact that the D-9's guns are only really effective within 300-400 yards in a deflection shot, but the same can be said for most cannon-armed fighters (Spano-lasered a/c excepted).
When you mix a fighter with high speed & acceleration with guns that are truly effective at relatively close distance, then you get an a/c that is difficult to truly master, but once you have its measure, it should prove devestating...