F4U F6F P-38 P-47 or P-51 Which plane was best by war's end

[Sal Monella]

By the end of WWII, which American fighter had progressed into the best fighter to fighter combat plane? Put differently, which version or model of these American fighters had evolved into the very best fighter to fighter plane.

Since disagreements always seem to arise over which versions or models to include, note the following:

As long as the version or model was operational and actually saw combat, meaning actually fought in air to air engagements, it is fair game.

F4U-
F6F-
P-38-
P-47-
P-51-

 

[Jank]

Did the F4U-4 see actual combat? I say Corsair if she did. Otherwose the P-47-n.

 

[wmaxt]

Did the F4U-4 see actual combat? I say Corsair if she did. Otherwose the P-47-n.

Yes the F4U-4 did see fairly extended service from about April '45.
So is the P-38L in the running. I think all 3 were capable, depending on Pilot skills to determine a winner.

 

[Gemhorse]

I'll go with the F4U...I also like the P-51, but feel the F4U was also an exceptional all-rounder, and hardier, and we flew 'em too......

 

[Wildcat]

Here's some Kiwi Corsairs for ya Gem. Being led by an Aussie of course!

 

[Wildcat]

Whoops! that pic was a bit big, Sorry

 

[the lancaster kicks ass]

i can't help but laugh at that pic..............

and i'd say corsair, i dunno what varient as i don't know much about the plane............

 

[FLYBOYJ]

I think the title goes to the F4U-4. 8)

Wildcat, I like the picture, was the Boomerang flying full throttle?

 

[the lancaster kicks ass]

keep up!!! it's just over taken the corsairs

 

[Soren]

I think the title goes to the F4U-4. 8)

Wildcat, I like the picture, was the Boomerang flying full throttle to keep up?

In overall performance and maneuverability the title goes to the F4U, however in "looks" the P-51D trashes the Corsair ! 8)

 

[FLYBOYJ]

I don't think so! I think the Corsairs are at "flight idle." - The boomerang is wide opened!

 

[the lancaster kicks ass]

the corsairs do look kinda small compared to the 'rang though........

 

[Soren]

I don't think so! I think the Corsairs are at "flight idle." - The boomerang is wide opened!

 

[Wildcat]

Hey! leave the poor little Boomerang alone!

Bullies!

 

[cheddar cheese]

Well, As much as Id love to say the P-38L ill have to go with the majority and say F4U-4. On looks though P-47 wins it

 

[Wildcat]

I'll put my vote to the F4U-4 as well. Although I reckon their all pretty damn good.

 

[Soren]

On looks though P-47 wins it

That fatty ?!

 

[cheddar cheese]

Its a beauty, closely followed by the P-38 and Hellcat... 8)

 

[Soren]

The P-51D looks better ! 8)

 

[cheddar cheese]

Naw!