The F2A-2s only received reflector sights after they had been demoted to the use of advanced fighter trainers- they probably did not receive them before late 1942 at the earliest. Ditto for the F2A-3 which was the only US version to fire its guns in anger, on two occasions off Midway: when intercepting a Japanese reconnaissance flight of two H8K flying boats in March 1942, and during the Battle of Midway on June 4th 1942. So as much as I love the Buffalos, I don't think any effort should be made to equip the F2A-2 with reflector sights.
A bit OT, but Oleg listed the F2A-3 as one of the planes scheduled for inclusion, together with the CW-21B, B-534 and a few others- but which won't see the light of day unfortunately. Modding the F2A-2 would be child's play for a genius like Ranwers, but is probably very low on the list of priorities. Anyway, this deserves its own topic I think- we're hijacking the Avenger thread a bit.
Ok, well - if there isn't much that needs done to the physical model, I might have a look at it whilst waiting for some bits for the Whirlwind.
So, please provide all the specs you can, preferably if you could PM me the data.
Comparisons to the F2A-2 and other buffalo variants would be handy.
Briefly, the main EXternal differences were as follows:
1) engine mounted 10" further forward than on F2A-2.
2) large conical spinner deleted.
3) heavy framing on sliding portion of cockpit canopy deleted, now three sections of perspex butted together.
INternally, however, there are significant differences:
1) ammo load for wing guns increased from 250 to 400 rpg, fuselage guns remained at 250 rpg.
2) two 20 US gal fuel tanks installed in the wing leading edges- one tp port, one to starboard.
3) 40 US gal fuel tank installed in fuselage below pilot.
4) armour protection increased over that of F2A-2.
All these changes resulted in a plane with a range on internal fuel that would shame a Zero, but increased the weight significantly so that the agile and fast F2A-2 became a slug. Good source for the Buffs is "F2A Buffalo in Action" by Jim Maas. Will start scanning and send you the pics!
