Did the Wing Guns on WWII Fighter Planes Shoot Straight Out or Did They Converge?

The orientation of the wing guns on WWII fighter planes was a critical consideration during both wartime operations and training. The choice between shooting straight forward and converging at a specific distance was a tactical decision influenced by the squadron commander's preferences and the mission requirements. This article delves into the nuances of boresighting the wing guns and how it impacted combat effectiveness.

Boresighting Practices Across Squadrons

During World War II, different squadrons adopted varying approaches to the orientation of their wing guns. Some preferred convergence, aiming the guns to converge at a specific distance, while others opted for straight-ahead shots. The choice often depended on the squadron commander's tactical preferences and the anticipated range of engagements.

For instance, in some squadrons, the guns were set to converge at around 1000 yards. This configuration was beneficial in dogfights, where aircraft would be expected to engage each other at shorter and more predictable distances. However, this setting required precise synchronization, as both aircraft were moving at different speeds and altitudes. In other squadrons, the guns were set to shoot straight forward, ensuring that the bullets remained close together even at longer ranges, making them effective for strafing ground targets from various distances.

The Role of Harmonization in Tactical Efficiency

The concept of harmonization, or the alignment of the guns to converge at a specific distance, played a pivotal role in maximizing the efficacy of the wing guns. Harmonization was a detailed process that involved adjusting the gun mounts to ensure that the bullets would intersect at a predetermined point.

For Fighter Command, the standard-convergence distance was typically 400 yards. However, this range could be adjusted based on the mission. In some situations, individual squadrons harmonized their guns up to 800 yards. An exemplary case was a Canadian fighter pilot stationed in Malta who was known for downing enemy aircraft at ranges exceeding 800 yards, a feat that required exceptional skill and precise gun alignment.

Other squadrons, such as certain Polish formations operating with RAF Fighter Command during the Battle of Britain, chose a much closer convergence point of 100 yards. These Polish pilots, flying Hawker Hurricanes, had remarkable success focusing on attacking Luftwaffe bombers at close range. Their tactics proved to be more effective and safer, resulting in higher kill ratios and lower casualties compared to their British counterparts who employed similar roles.

The Boresighting Process

The boresighting process was a straightforward but precise procedure. Typically, the process involved the following steps:

Bring the aircraft to the boresight range, usually near the weapons assembly area of the airfield. Jack up the plane to a predetermined mark (e.g., 1000 yards) and point the plane towards the target. Adjust the plane to be level using the jacks. Align the gunsight to the target. Insert a sighting scope into the gun barrel and adjust the mounts to ensure the gun is set to the intended target (center, left, or right). Repeat the process on the other side of the plane. Once both guns and the gunsight are set, the plane is taken down from the jacks and towed back to the hangar.

This meticulous process allowed pilots to fine-tune their guns to achieve optimal performance, ensuring they could engage enemy aircraft or ground targets with precision.

Conclusion

The orientation of wing guns on WWII fighter planes was a subject of significant tactical debate. Convergence or straight-ahead shots depended on the mission requirements and the squadron's tactics. Harmonization allowed pilots to achieve maximum impact and precision, making it a crucial aspect of wartime operations. Understanding and mastering the boresighting process was essential for pilots and gunners, ultimately contributing to the success and efficiency of these combat aircraft.