Having read many posts about the N1K2, I was especially interested in one--the one about the endless looping ability of the N1K2
Wanting to see this for myself in action, I picked an N1K offline with 75% fuel and took off. As soon as gear up, I leveled until airspeed reached 150, then I started looping (altitude about 300 feet above runway):
The first one was the toughest--but I managed. After that, it became easier and easier to maintain a constant loop, provided I used flaps to help myself over the top.
To do this, my loops weren't quite true loops in the strict sense of the word; rather, I allowed myself to stay vertical slightly longer than necessary to gain a bit more altitude. Several times, my airspeed reached 50 MPH or less, with no penality at all--indeed, it helped bring my nose back down easier. I maintained this for about 10 loops, then became bored.
Then, as a comparison, I attempted the same feat in my favorite plane--the P-51D.
I loaded it with 75% fuel and took off, same routine. At 150-160 MPH, having gained about 300 feet, I began the loop. This first loop was a bit difficult, and I came fairly close to the ground, but after that I stabilized. Once again, I maintained this for about 10 loops, then quit.
As with before, I allowed my speed to bleed somwewhat more than necessary on the "up" of the loop to gain a bit more altitude, and used flaps over the top. Once again, my speed would drop to +/- 50 MPH and the plane would nose back down, with no apparent ill effect.
My conclusion?
I wanted to see this for myself, and I did. Not only can the N1K sustain loops from takeoff, most likely MOST the AH fighters can. The N1K is a "UFO" because it happens to be generally more maneuverable than the other fighters, and thus can make better use of this in combat. Slow-speed looping ability in and of itself is a trait shared by (probably) a LOT of the AH fighters.
I don't know if this is realistic or not; I am not an expert in the matter. Whether it is realistic is up for HTC to decide. I just wanted to post this for two reasons:
1: To mention that the N1K is not unique in this ability.
2: I have no secret motive. I just want this info to be available to the community.
Please don't turn this thread into a flamewar. This board has had enough of those, and they are not at all productive. However, any non-flame replys would be greatly appreciated.
J_A_B
PS--I am going to test this same routine in several other simulators, to see if I can do the same thing. I will post a reply upon completion.
