I don't see the harm in speculating who was the best either. As long as we don't trash someone else's memory and reputation at the same time.
Paul Cowan did more than enough damage to Bishop's record. And Mr. Cowan even had things screwed up!!
And while I pointed out Bishop's single-seat numbers to 2-seater kills, my intention was not to say "he's the best". Even though that is MY opinion. Actually, I think they were all "THE BEST". Not only for what they did in the air, but in just having the courage to get into those airplanes made of wood and cloth. To climb into the sky, with no oxygen, going above 10,000 feet on a regular basis, putting up with castor oil fumes, causing problems related to that particular "medicine".
I don't know about anyone else, but I don't think I could have done what they did. I'd like to think I could, but in all honesty, I have to admit, that I doubt it very much.
VBR
Al Lowe 'Honourary Canadian Citizen'
"On the edge of destiny, you must test your strength. "
--
Billy Bishop