Quote:
Originally Posted by bristol scout
I absolutely agree-----of course those guns were lethal out to far greater ranges than even 250-300--BUT I think the ranges you state are much more typical and effective---taking into account all the variables of vibration, watering can spray effects bullet drop etc..
Indeed I would say the important word here is 'within'----meaning I believe closer than 100 metres ----by far.
Just my thoughts,
Dave.
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Hi Dave,
I agree. By the time vibration of the guns and the airframe, buffeting by the wind and slip stream, bullet drop, and the savage slip stream are taken into account, the bullets would have spread out, as you said Dave like a watering can and slowed down very quickly. Try poking your head out into the slipstream of even a Tiger Moth, and see how savage the slipstream is! I was talking to the owner of a Tiger Moth and he said they are fairly slow - probably a lot slower than some (but not all of course) First World War aeroplanes. As the bullet leaves the barrel, surely it be travelling at terminal velocity and would experience exponential drag during the process of slowing down to the same speed - constantly decreasing - minus the effects of the slip stream. It's like firing a bullet into a 100 MPH plus head wind - it would slow down very quickly.
I would also say closer than 100 metres by far, and would suggest up to a range where you have to fly with skill to avoid colliding with the target aeroplane.
Regards,
David.