Originally posted by Nashwan:
I doubt that replacing 4 MGs with 2 cannon in the wings would have as detremental an effect on the SPit as hanging 2 20mm under the wings of the 109.
The Spit only faced lightly armed German and Italian bombers. There was no real need for 4 20mm. In AH Spits face B17s and B26s. 4 20mm would be a nice option to have. Even if it wasn't used much on the Spit, it was available on almost all of them. That little fairing next to the cannon isn't there for decoration you know.
Nashwan
I agree that they never faced anything like a b17 in malta. But the Ju88 was a very robust aircraft.
You are mistaken about the effect vs the effect of the gondolas on the 109. The Hispano is heavier its rounds are heavier the gun produces much more recoil. Comparing to the 4 gun FW is probebly more relevant as they are at about the same place in the wing and can be implemented with bulges not gondolas. I find the extra 2 guns too high a price to pay on the FW. I would expect the Spit Vc pays a much higher price.
As has been pointed out repeatedly in defence of the Hispano. It fired a heavier round at a high rate of fire and at much higher muzzle velocities. To say that 2 browning 303 machine guns have the same effect on the AC is a bit shallow I believe.
As the Spit airframe and wings became more solid and heavier in the post 14 airframes it would have been more feasable.
If the 4 cannon load out apprears on a Merlin Spit. It will likly only be on the Vc and we should be prepared for a signifigant effect on the handling of the aircraft.
