Superior fighter (F4U-4 vs. P-47M)

[Magister]

Great board you gents have here. I've been wondering for a while which plane would come out on top in a matchup between the F4U-4 and the P-47M.

I have some P-47M data that I'd like to share with you all after I get some opinions and such.

I'm looking forward to reading your comments!

[lesofprimus]

Welcome to the site....

Your question basically comes down to combat atltude.... Low to medium altitude, the Corsair... Above that, the 'Bolt...

And for the record, and ur new found membership, my Grandfather was a Blacksheep....

Spend some time and search around the Message Board for a few hours, read up on the older material and get a feel for the way things are run around here....

[Magister]

Which Blacksheep was he?

I have some speed and climb data from the P-47M manufacturer that I would like to compare with similar data for the F4U-4. (Basically, I'm looking for some performance specs for the F4U-4 Corsair here)

This data is for the P-47M at combat gross weight of 13,275lbs (full fuel and ammo) and WEP.

Top speed @ 5,000ft = 386mph
Top speed @ 15,000ft = 422mph
Top speed @ 32,000ft = 470mph

Climb rate @ 5,000ft = 3,775ft/min
Climb rate @ 15,000ft = 3,425ft/min
Climb rate @ 28,000ft = 2,375ft/min

From JonJGoldberg's data, it looks like the gross weight of the F4U-4 is 12,450lbs. I have to sort of estimate the exact numbers from the chart he provided which I have relocated below so here goes.

Top speed @ 5,000ft = 380mph
Top speed @ 15,000ft = 425mph
Top speed @ 32,000ft = 445mph

Climb rate @ 5,000ft = 3,750ft/min
Climb rate @ 15,000ft = 3,600ft/min
Climb rate @ 28,000ft = 1,800ft/min

[lesofprimus]

My Grandfather was Bill Case...

[Gnomey]

Welcome to the forum Magister.

I will agree with Les, the F4U-4 at low altitude and the P-47M at high altitude.

[DerAdlerIstGelandet]

Originally Posted by lesofprimus

My Grandfather was Bill Case...

Is Bill Case.....

I also agree with you on this subject.

[Magister]

The climb rate of the F4U-4 really degrades fast at higher altitudes. The P-47M is pulling 2,375fpm at 28,000 feet. The F4U-4 looks like she can match this climb rate at 26,000 feet but by the time she's made it just 2,000feet higher to 28,000 feet, her climb rate is already down to 1,800fpm.

I'd say that over 25,000 feet, her climb rate takes her out of the race.

I think the P-47 has roll rate on her too.

What about turning in a tight fight? I would think that the F4U-4 might have an advantage here. How would the power loss at higher altitudes affect the F4U-4's ability to turn?

[lesofprimus]

Grandpa died a bunch of years ago Adler....

[DerAdlerIstGelandet]

Yes but he still is Bill Case. Im just saying this because I feel that people who served (as well as other loved ones) live on in memories.

[lesofprimus]

Oh, ok I got ya...

[Nonskimmer]

That's a cool way to look at it actually.

[Jank]

:shock: 1800fpm at 28,000? :shock: That altitude data on the F4u-4 Corsair realy points oiut why the P-47N was the little friend the B-29 crews could rely on.

[Camarogenius]

Since the Combat attributes of both planes has been well covered, Let's make it a beauty contest!!!
F4U Hands Down!!!!
Sorry, but the P-47 is One Ugly Mother. Effective, but Ugly.

[Magister]

Nonsense! Beautiful ... and deadly.

[the lancaster kicks ass]

yeah i'd have to agree, the P-47 is one mighty fine looking bird...........