I have never been anywhere near the top on scores. Hell I can't even controll a CV. LOL
I operate on the "ownage" score. That score existes nowhere but in the heads of other AH pilots. I know and they know when it has occured.
No other score matters.
I'd argue the 'ownage' score is not really owning anyone so much as knowing you've fought a good fight, and that you know you can take just about anyone in the game to the edge win or lose.
I'd never claim to be a great stick, and I know there are guys in certain birds that will beat me in the old 38G 9 times out of 10. But I'm confident I can give most guys a decent fight in that same 38G.
If I was worried about 'owning' people, I'd fly a lot more hours and probably find a better performing bird. At this stage of the game, I'd rather stick to my old 38G and see how far I can push it in a fight regardless of the other bird I'm fighting. I sure don't win em all but I enjoy that challenge more then just setting it up to 'win'.
And Agent, my experience fighting you says your approach is much the same