Great thread and some interesting points of view
Not altogether dissimilar to recent discussions re the Dr1, although as already mentioned in this case the F2b
was a formidable beasty while the dr1 (in reality) was more of a one trick pony. So I can see an argument against the current Dr1 while the F2b seems like a fair representation. Xcelsior and 1701E fly the thing well and rarely resort to the rear gun.... I shudder to think of taking them on if they had someone with a good eye in the back seat. As for those doing the standard driving and gunning thing, I'd imagine their antics would fairly replicate those of many real world F2b's (or similar two seaters) back in the day, so I'm ok with it. Accurate shooting does seem more the norm than I would have expected from the rear gun, I certainly can't hit anything with it so I just have to give credit for some very good shooting. Anyway good luck to 'em, the place is crawling with talent these days and I don't see why that particular skill is any less valid than aerial ballet.
For what it's worth, I think the best way to take out an F2b is 2v1, probably the way it was done for real also. As for multiple F2b's, for some reason on such occassions my Camel gets thirsty and it's rtb time - a refreshing drink, change of undies and possibly even a change of country