I am finding the Yak-9u a great fighter for this type scenario. GREAT viz. Climbs and maneuvers good. You do have to really conserve ammo but when that thing hits (at 300 or less)
IT HITS. They go down folks.
Great other points here all. Yak-3, Turny birds etc. So easy to make a case when you understand a plane well.
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I think about plane performance, matchups, how to get modest planes to be really effective...
I am so glad there is a game like AH for peeps like me with this affliction. 
to all of you.
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