Difference between revisions of "Bf 109 B-1"

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{{Specs-Card|code=bf-109b_2}}
 
{{About
 
{{About
|about=German fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
+
|about=aircraft '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|usage=other variants
+
|usage=other uses
 
|link=Bf 109 (Family)
 
|link=Bf 109 (Family)
}}
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=bf-109b_2
 
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage2_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
+
<!--In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.-->
In the early 1930s, a competition was held to replace the aging He 51 and other biplane fighters. Out of four designs, the Bf 109 was selected and would mark the beginning of the fabled Bf 109. At first, it was powered by a Rolls-Royce engine, but later developments switched out the engine for the Junkers Jumo. Although the Bf 109 A might be thought of by some as the first production variant of the 109, it was actually the Bf 109 B. The 109 A production run was abandoned because the planned version of the B variant would've included a 20 mm cannon firing through the propeller hub. However, cooling issues prevented the use of the cannon and instead another 7.92 mm machine gun was added. The Bf 109 B-1 would be powered by the Junkers Jumo 210D, and it propelled the 109 to speeds up to ~467 km/h (292 mph). It was far slower than the Merlin-powered Hawker Hurricane, and the 109 wouldn't receive a major engine upgrade until the Bf 109 D, which introduced the Daimler-Benz engines. 
+
 
 +
[[File:GarageImage_Bf109B-1L.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
 +
{{break}}
 +
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update_1.49_"Weapons_of_Victory"|Update 1.49 (aka 1.70.1945) "Weapons of Victory"]]. The Bf 109 B-1 is the first of the fabled 109s that make up the bulk of the German fighter forces in War Thunder. Seeing combat in the Spanish Civil War, the B-1 allowed the Germans to acquire valuable combat experience and develop the 109s further.
  
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' was introduced in [[Update 1.49 "Weapons of Victory"|Update 1.49 (aka 1.70.1945) "Weapons of Victory"]]. Being the first production variant of the 109, the B-1 is quite lacklustre when it comes to performance and armament. It lacks any cannons, and the Jumo engine only produces around 650 hp. With a maximum climb rate of only 10.2 m/s, players should practice side climbing to gain an altitude advantage over enemy aircraft. Many opponents will be in biplanes, and they will easily outturn the 109 in a dogfight. Thus, players should use its excellent structural limit of 790 km/h (493 mph) to make boom and zoom passes on enemy fighters. Also, the B-1 comes armed with only two 7.92 mm machine guns, so it will take many rounds to down an enemy aircraft. Targeting the pilot will be the best option to quickly and efficiently take down enemy aircraft. 
 
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
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=== Flight Performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
+
''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 
  
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
+
|-
 +
! colspan="8" | Characteristics
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="8" | ''Stock''
 +
|-
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 4,000 m)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 4,000 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
+
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(metres/second)
+
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(metres)
+
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run<br>(meters)
 +
|-
 +
! AB
 +
! RB
 +
! AB
 +
! RB
 +
! AB
 +
! RB
 +
|-
 +
| 438 || 432 || 9,000 || 23.5 || 24.0 || 5.8 || 7.4 || 210
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
 
|-
 
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
+
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 4,000 m)
 +
! rowspan="2" |Max altitude (meters)
 +
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
 +
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
 +
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
 
|-
 
|-
! Stock
+
! AB
| 444 || 434 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 22.9 || 23.7 || 7.6 || 7.6 || rowspan="2" | 210
+
! RB
 +
! AB
 +
! RB
 +
! AB
 +
! RB
 
|-
 
|-
! Upgraded
+
| 491 || 465 || 9,000 || 20.6 || 22.0 || 16.2 || 10.2 || 210
| 486 || 465 || 21.1 || 22.0 || 13.2 || 10.2
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
==== Details ====
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====Details====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
|-
 
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
+
! Combat flap
 +
! Take-off flap
 +
! Landing flap
 +
! Air brakes
 +
! Arrestor gear
 
|-
 
|-
 
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || X    <!-- ✓ -->
 
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || X    <!-- ✓ -->
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|}
 
|}
  
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
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! colspan="5" | Limits
 
|-
 
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
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! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed<br>(km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
+
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit<br>(km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
+
! rowspan="2" | Combat flap<br> (km/h)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
|-
 
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
+
! +
 +
! -
 
|-
 
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 387 || 371 || 250 || ~13 || 7
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| 789 || 320 || 500 || ~27 || ~12
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
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! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities
 
|-
 
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
+
! Ailerons<br>(km/h)
 +
! Rudder<br>(km/h)
 +
! Elevators<br>(km/h)
 +
! Radiator<br>(km/h)
 
|-
 
|-
| < 450 || < 390 || < 450 || > 312
+
| < 370 || < 370 || < 420 || > 250
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! WEP Engine power
 
! WEP Engine power
 
|-
 
|-
| 1,250 m || 670 hp || 704 hp
+
| 1,250 m || 670 hp || 704hp
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="3" | Setting 2
 
! colspan="3" | Setting 2
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! WEP Engine power
 
! WEP Engine power
 
|-
 
|-
| 3,200 m || 600 hp || 660 hp
+
| 3,200 m || 600 hp || 660 hp  
 
|-
 
|-
 +
<!--! colspan="3" | Setting 3
 +
|-
 +
! Optimal altitude
 +
! 100% Engine power
 +
! WEP Engine power
 +
|-
 +
| ?,??? m || ?,??? hp || ?,??? hp
 +
|- -->
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
+
Despite having no armor this aircraft is ''very'' survivable. The first thing that you will lose is likely the engine. The engine is great for soaking up shots taken from head-on attacks, bombers, etc and saves your pilot from eating a storm of bullets (albiet you ''may'' die from a crash due to stalling). When fighting bi-planes and other 1.0-2.0 planes their bullets aren't very effective unless aimed ''correctly'', and most 1.0-2.0 pilots are just starting out and may not be good at aiming; coupled with good evasive maneuvers this aircraft can survive long enough to escape low-powered planes: saving your life.  
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
 
 
 
Despite lacking in armour protection and self-sealing fuel tanks, this aircraft is surprisingly resilient and can withstand significant damage. Although it is vulnerable to being hit, its design allows for it to absorb incoming rounds, particularly when facing head-on attacks or gunners on bombers. In battles against early tier aircraft such as biplanes, the bullets from their weapons are not as effective unless they are fired at close range or aimed at vital components. As most pilots at this level are new to the game, they may not be proficient in aiming their weapons, giving you an added advantage. To increase your chances of survival, it's essential to master good evasive manoeuvres. By doing so, you can out manoeuvre low-powered planes and make a narrow escape, thus saving your life. However, the engine is a vulnerable part of the aircraft, and you may have to lose it before losing any other vital component. Overall, despite its lack of armour protection and self-sealing fuel tanks, this aircraft can be a formidable fighter in the right hands. It requires a skilled pilot who knows how to exploit its strengths and weaknesses to emerge victorious in battle.
 
 
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
{{Specs-Economy}}
 
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
+
<!--Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'-->
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
 
 
{{main|MG 17 (7.92 mm)}}
 
{{main|MG 17 (7.92 mm)}}
  
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
+
The Bf 109 B-1/L is armed with:
  
* 2 x 7.92 mm MG 17 machine guns, nose-mounted (500 rpg = 1,000 total)
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* 2 x 7.92 mm MG 17 machine gun, nose-mounted (500 rpg = 1,000 total)
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
+
<!--Describe the tactics of playing in an aircraft, the features of using vehicles in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).-->
When facing fighters that have a high tolerance for 7.92 mm rounds, it's crucial to adopt a specific strategy to take them down quickly. In this scenario, targeting the pilot becomes the best option as it can bring the enemy down with fewer rounds fired. This approach requires exceptional aiming skills and a quick trigger finger. However, it can be a game-changer when facing a tough opponent.
+
Against fighters that are able to tank quite a few 7.92 mm, the best option to quickly dispatch an enemy is to aim specifically for the pilot.
 
 
On the other hand, the Bf 109 B-1 does not fare well when engaging bombers. In this scenario, it's essential to aim for the engine or pilot to deal critical damage. The engine has a larger hit box, making it the preferable target. A well-placed shot can result in an engine or fuel tank fire, making it easier to take down the bomber.
 
 
 
When targeting the engines, it's important to note that propellers take some time to stop spinning. Firing all your rounds into a single engine can be misleading, and a few well-timed bursts should be enough to get the job done. Once you feel that an engine has taken enough damage, you can switch to the other engines to maximize your chances of success.
 
 
 
Another strategy when engaging bombers is to target the gunners. Taking them out can enable you to stay behind the bomber, targeting a specific area or engine. However, this approach requires exceptional aiming skills and can cost you valuable time if you miss your shots. It's best to target the gunners during your initial pass, and if you miss, switch to targeting the engine or pilot.
 
 
 
Overall, engaging fighters and bombers requires a different approach, and it's essential to understand the strengths and weaknesses of your aircraft and those of your opponents. With practice and experience, you can become an expert in taking down tough enemies, even with a weaker aircraft like the Bf 109 B-1.
 
 
 
'''Realistic Battles'''
 
 
 
The Bf 109 B-1 is a strong performer in Realistic Battles (RB), although it lacks the outstanding climb rate of later 109 models. Despite this, it still manages to get to altitude quickly and efficiently. Its biggest asset is its incredible high-speed turn, which allows it to cut inside the turning circles of other planes, particularly in a high-speed engagement. This manoeuvrability can give you an edge over your opponents, especially if you can make use of your speed to reset the engagement in your favor.
 
 
 
However, it's important to remember that if you drag the fight on for too long, you may lose your advantage. This is especially true when facing opponents with better armament or manoeuvrability. To maximize your chances of success, you need to be aware of your strengths and weaknesses and use them to your advantage. Against early tier biplanes and other monoplanes, you can use your speed to outmanoeuvre and outpace them.
 
 
 
One significant drawback of the Bf 109 B-1 is its armament. Its weapons lack the firepower of other aircraft in its class, requiring prolonged periods of time on target to down or critically damage an enemy. As with other 109 models, the roll rate is subpar, and the rudder needs to be utilized to maximize its potential. A skilled pilot can make up for these deficiencies by using proper tactics and making the most of the plane's strengths.
 
 
 
Overall, the Bf 109 B-1 can be a formidable fighter in RB when flown by an experienced pilot. It may not have the same outstanding climb rate as its successors, but its incredible high-speed turn and speed make it a valuable asset in dogfights. Despite its limited armament, a skilled pilot can make the most of it, using proper tactics to outmanoeuvre and outpace opponents.
 
 
 
'''Simulator Battles'''
 
 
 
In Simulator battles, the Bf 109 B-1 is a versatile fighter that is easy to fly and fights well. The aircraft's smooth handling, combined with adequate speed against biplanes and impressive climb rate and turn rate, make it a friendly fighter for newcomers. Its nose-mounted machine guns have a lot of ammo and do not require any convergence settings, making it very easy to aim. The nose gently slopes down from the windscreen, offering a great over-the-nose vision, which is helpful when manoeuvring the aircraft. Despite having a razorback, the B model actually has great visibility towards the tail, increasing the pilot's situational awareness, which is important in a simulator battle.
 
 
 
However, the B model's main drawback is its poor firepower given by the mere 2 x 7.92 mm MGs. Shooting windows in Simulator battles are much smaller than in RB, which reduces its effectiveness even more. As a result, you will need to bring at least 30 minutes of fuel for prolonged patrolling and fighting. The convergence does not really matter, and it might be anywhere between 250-600 m. To improve over-the-nose visibility, you can set keys for vertical head movement, allowing you to lift up your head a little.
 
 
 
When dogfighting in Simulator battles, you can utilise common manoeuvres such as Immelmann, Split-S, scissor, barrel roll, etc. However, note that the Bf 109 handles very sluggishly in the roll axis at low speed, so take this into account if dogfighting at low speed/altitude. You can pull the elevator fully for maximum agility, but only if you pull gently and gradually will the 109 manoeuvre as you wish. If maximum elevator input is harsh and sudden, the plane will start swaying around and enter a flat spin. The aircraft can quite easily recover from a flat spin by fully deflecting elevators downward and rudder to the opposite side of which the plane is spinning, and wait until it starts a dive and gather some speed to pull up.
 
  
Finally, landing the Bf 109 B-1 may need some practice for some. At first, it is easy: decelerate and descent towards the runway, deploy combat, takeoff, landing flaps, and gears in order, and fly at ~230 km/h before touchdown. However, if the plane bounces up with landing flaps, use takeoff/combat flaps instead to reduce lift. Note that you must align the plane with the airstrip correctly prior to touchdown and do not yaw/break one side too much when breaking, as the main landing gears are so close together that they cannot support such sideways force, causing the plane to wobble dangerously or even tilt towards one side, striking a wingtip into the ground.
+
Against bombers, the Bf 109 B-1 performs poorly. When engaging, aim for the engine or pilot. Due to its bigger hit box, the engine is the preferable of the two. This could cause an engine/fuel tank fire, making the task all the easier. Remember that propellers often take some time to 'stop spinning', so don't be misled into firing all you have into a single engine. A few good bursts will do the trick just nicely. Alternate to the second/third/fourth engine once you feel like the previous one had enough. Picking of the gunners might also allow you to stay behind the bomber, littering a certain area/ engine. However, this calls for some good shots and a loss of valuable time if you don't get them in your initial pass.
  
 
====Specific enemies worth noting====
 
====Specific enemies worth noting====
 
<!--Some concerning vehicles to worry about if playing this plane. (i.e. Japanese fighters will out turn you)-->
 
<!--Some concerning vehicles to worry about if playing this plane. (i.e. Japanese fighters will out turn you)-->
The Bf 109 B-1 runs the risk of meeting [[Hurricane_(Family)|Hurricanes]], a plane introduced to the [[:Category:Britain_aircraft|RAF]] in 1935 that has a far heavier armament and shorter snap turns. Against better performing enemies, the Bf 109 B-1 is not hopeless, but it will be tough. It is not exactly sturdy and will be quickly stitched to death by heavily armed enemies. Here, manoeuvrability is key, allowing you to roll out of an incoming attack quickly, setting up overshoots to keep the enemy at bay. A surprising number of players will lose their patience in such moments, making mistakes and thus nullifying their performance advantage. Nearly all planes of superior performance turn worse than a B-1, so if you manage to bleed their speed and pull them to the deck, you will be able to win a turning engagement. However, keep a watchful eye for better turning enemies such as biplanes.
+
The current (''1.73'') [[Matchmaker]] and [[BR]] systems are unkind to this plane. The Bf 109 B-1 runs the risk of meeting [[Hurricane_(Family)|Hurricanes]], a plane introduced to the [[:Category:Britain_aircraft|RAF]] in 1935 that has a far heavier armament and shorter snap turns. Against better performing enemies, the Bf 109 B-1 is not hopeless, but it will be tough. It is not exactly sturdy and will be quickly stitched to death by heavily armed enemies. Here, maneuverability is key, allowing you to roll out of an incoming attack quickly, setting up overshoots to keep the enemy at bay. A surprising number of players will lose their patience in such moments, making mistakes and thus nullifying their performance advantage. Nearly all planes of superior performance turn worse than a B-1, so if you manage to bleed their speed and pull them to the deck, you will be able to win a turning engagement. However, keep a watchful eye for better turning enemies such as biplanes.
  
 
====Counter-tactics====
 
====Counter-tactics====
 
<!--What to expect, if it would be in command of the enemy and how to counter it. (i.e. They will most likely BnZ, etc.)-->
 
<!--What to expect, if it would be in command of the enemy and how to counter it. (i.e. They will most likely BnZ, etc.)-->
The Bf 109 B-1 is going to be a rude awakening for those that flock to the 109s due to their historic reputation. While a capable pre-war fighter, it is severely lacking in firepower. Its two [[MG 17 (7.92 mm)|MG 17]]s 7.92 mm are just about adequate when engaging biplanes or [[I-16 type 5|I-16]]s, but lack punch against tougher opponents such as [[Hurricane Mk I/L|Hawker Hurricanes]]. Just about any enemy you might meet has either comparable or better armament.
+
The Bf 109 B-1 is going to be a rude awakening for those that flock to the 109s due to their historic reputation. While a capable pre-war fighter, it is severely lacking in firepower. Its two [[MG 17 (7.92 mm)|MG 17]]s 7.92 mm are just about adequate when engaging biplanes or [[I-16 type 5|I-16]]s, but lack punch against tougher opponents such as [[Hurricane Mk I/L|Hawker Hurricanes]]. Just about any enemy you might meet has either comparable or better armament.  
  
What the plane lacks in firepower, it makes up in manoeuvrability, with the later trademark Bf 109 energy fighting capabilities displayed. A capable pilot can make this aircraft dance like any Messerschmitt, but it requires discipline, precision and effective use of the two MG 17's. When engaging planes that are of the Spanish Civil War Era, the B-1 does best by using its speed and superior climb rate to place itself into an advantageous attack position, and then launching one concentrated attack after the other on its target. Remember to always recycle your speed into altitude and back as the fight progresses. Before zoom climbing back up from an attack, remember to extend a little bit to avoid getting picked off from a prop-hang. As you zoom up, check your surroundings to keep good situational awareness.
+
What the plane lacks in firepower, it makes up in maneuverability, with the later trademark Bf 109 energy fighting capabilities displayed. A capable pilot can make this aircraft dance like any Messerschmitt, but it requires discipline, precision and effective use of the two MG 17’s. When engaging planes that are of the Spanish Civil War Era, the B-1 does best by using its speed and superior climb rate to place itself into an advantageous attack position, and then launching one concentrated attack after the other on its target. Remember to always recycle your speed into altitude and back as the fight progresses. Before zoom climbing back up from an attack, remember to extend a little bit to avoid getting picked off from a prop-hang. As you zoom up, check your surroundings to keep good situational awareness.
  
=== Manual Engine Control ===
+
===Manual Engine Control===
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
 
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
 
|-
 
|-
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
+
! rowspan="2" |Mixer
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
+
! rowspan="2" |Pitch
! colspan="3" | Radiator
+
! colspan="3" |Radiator
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
+
! rowspan="2" |Supercharger
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
+
! rowspan="2" |Turbocharger
 
|-
 
|-
! Oil !! Water !! Type
+
! Oil
 +
! Water
 +
! Type  
 
|-
 
|-
| Not controllable || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Separate || Not controllable<br>2 gears || Not controllable
+
| Controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Separate || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
===Modules===
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
! Tier
 +
! Flight performance
 +
! Survivability
 +
! Weaponry
 +
|-
 +
| I
 +
| Fuselage Repair, Radiator
 +
|
 +
| Offensive 7 mm
 +
|-
 +
| II
 +
| Compressor
 +
| Airframe
 +
|
 +
|-
 +
| III
 +
| Wing Repair, Engine
 +
|
 +
| New 7 mm MGs
 +
|-
 +
| IV
 +
| Engine Injection
 +
| Cover
 +
|
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
+
<!--Summarize and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".-->
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
Line 181: Line 214:
 
* Excellent agility, able to do very sharp turns
 
* Excellent agility, able to do very sharp turns
 
* Good energy conservation
 
* Good energy conservation
* Very useful during dogfights since it is able to outmanoeuvre the opponent
+
* Very useful during dogfights since it is able to out manouver the oponent
 
* Has excellent control during slow speed
 
* Has excellent control during slow speed
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
 +
* Not the fastest option at its rank
 
* Considerably weak armament
 
* Considerably weak armament
 
* May be too responsive for some players
 
* May be too responsive for some players
* Slow roll rate
 
* Most of the vehicle's critical components lie in the nose, so head-ons are not advised against aircraft with better offensive armament
 
* Engine rather easy to take out due to lack of armour protection
 
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
+
<!--Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too big, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/ History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== Encyclopedia Info ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).-->
The Bf 109 B-1 came out of the prototype V series of the Bf 109s and saw combat in the Spanish Civil War. While the Bf 109s faced various performance and reliability issues from their engine to an obvious lack of "punch", the experience proved to yield valuable data allowing for design improvement, ensuring the success of later Bf 109 models.
+
The Bf 109 B-1 came out of the prototype V series of the 109s to see combat in the Spanish Civil War. While the 109s faced various issues from engine performance/reliability to an obvious lack of 'punch', the experience proved to yield valuable data allowing for design improvement, ensuring the success of later Bf 109 models.
  
While the B-1 was the only production model of the 109 carrying the "Bertha" designation, later models that saw improvements to the variable pitch carried the unofficial designation of B-2.  
+
While the B-1 was the only production model of the 109 carrying the 'Berta' designation, later models that saw improvements to the variable pitch carried the unofficial designation of B-2. A B-1/Late did not exist but might be used by War Thunder instead of B-2.
  
A subvariant of the Bf 109 B called the "V13" was powered by a boosted Daimler-Benz 601 engine. It produced well over 1,600 hp; a massive increase over the Merlin found in the Hawker Hurricane. The boosted engine allowed the Bf 109 to set a world speed record of 606 km/h (379 mph) in 1937. Unfortunately, the DB series of engines would never be put in a production variant of the 109 until the Bf 109 D variant.
+
A notable feature of the Bf 109 B-1 is its massive opening in the cowling. While production models carried a third MG 17 firing out of said cowling, this was nearly always removed after combat trials during the Spanish Civil War. Although the fixed gun was cooled by the air coming in through the hole, it proved unreliable and a detriment to the plane. The War Thunder Bf 109 B-1 does not have this MG 17.
 
 
A notable feature of the Bf 109 B-1 is its massive opening in the cowling. While production models carried a third MG 17 firing out of said cowling, this was nearly always removed after combat trials during the Spanish Civil War. Although the fixed gun was cooled by the air coming in through the hole, it proved unreliable and a detriment to the plane. The in-game Bf 109 B-1 does not have this MG 17.
 
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
+
''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
 
 
;Images
 
<gallery mode="packed-hover" heights="200">
 
File:ArtImage Bf 109 B-1.png
 
</gallery>
 
 
 
;Skins
 
 
 
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=bf-109b_2 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 
 
 
;Videos
 
{{Youtube-gallery|TaiwDTpA9AQ|'''How To Fly #7 the Bf 109 B-1''' - ''WickedWilliWonka''}}
 
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
<!-- ''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
+
<!--''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
+
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''-->
 
 
;Related development
 
 
 
* [[Bf 109 (Family)]]
 
** [[Flegel's Bf 109 A]]
 
  
 
;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
 
;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
  
* [[MiG-3-15]]
+
* Mitsubishi [[A6M (Family)|A6M]]
 +
* Bell [[P-39 (Family)|P-39]] Airacobra
 +
* Curtiss [[P-36 (Family)|P-36]]
 +
* Curtiss [[P-40 (Family)|P-40]]
 +
* Dewoitine [[D.520]]
 +
* Fiat [[G.55 serie 1|G.55]]
 +
* Focke-Wulf [[Fw 190 (Family)|Fw 190]]
 +
* Grumman [[F4F (Family)|F4F]] Wildcat
 +
* Grumman [[F6F (Family)|F6F]] Hellcat
 +
* Hawker [[Hurricane (Family)|Hurricane]]
 +
* Heinkel [[He 112 (Family)|He 112]]
 +
* [[IAR-81C|IAR-81]]
 +
* Kawasaki [[Ki-61 (Family)|Ki-61]]
 +
* Lavochkin [[LaGG-3 (Family)|LaGG-3]]
 +
* Macchi [[C.202]]
 +
* Macchi [[C.205 serie 1|C.205]]
 +
* Mikoyan-Gurevich [[MiG-3 (Family)|MiG-3]]
 +
* Morane-Saulnier [[M.S.406C1|MS.406]]
 +
* Nakajima [[Ki-43 (Family)|Ki-43]]
 +
* North American [[P-51 (Family)|P-51]] Mustang
 +
* Polikarpov [[I-16 (Family)|I-16]]
 +
* Supermarine [[Spitfire (Family)|Spitfire]]
 +
* Yakovlev [[Yak-1]]
 +
* Yakovlev [[Yak-9]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
+
<!--''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
* ''other literature.'' -->
+
* ''encyclopedia page on the aircraft;''
 +
* ''other literature.''-->
  
* [https://me109.info/ <nowiki>[Falcon's Messerschmitt Bf 109 Hangar]</nowiki> Bf 109B]
+
* [http://www.messerschmitt-bf109.de/web.php?lang=de&auth=e&name=bf109b&versionscategory=3 "Falcon's Messerschmitt Bf 109 Hangar" Bf 109B subpage]
* [[Wikipedia:Messerschmitt_Bf_109_variants#Bf_109_A.2FB.2FC.2FD|[Wikipedia] Messerschmitt Bf 109 variants - Bf 109 A/B/C/D]]
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* [[Wikipedia:Messerschmitt_Bf_109_variants#Bf_109_A.2FB.2FC.2FD|[Wikipedia<nowiki>]</nowiki> Messerschmitt Bf 109 variants &ndash; Bf 109 A/B/C/D]]
  
 
{{AirManufacturer BFW}}
 
{{AirManufacturer BFW}}
 
{{Germany fighters}}
 
{{Germany fighters}}

Revision as of 21:21, 23 June 2020

RANK 5 FRANCE
Somua SM PACK
Bf 109 B-1
bf-109b_2.png
Bf 109 B-1
AB RB SB
1.7 1.3 1.3
Class:
Research:2 900 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:700 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game
This page is about the aircraft Bf 109 B-1. For other uses, see Bf 109 (Family).

Description

GarageImage Bf 109 B-1.jpg


The Bf 109 B-1 Late is a rank I German fighter with a battle rating of 1.7 (AB) and 1.3 (RB/SB). It was introduced in Update 1.49 (aka 1.70.1945) "Weapons of Victory". The Bf 109 B-1 is the first of the fabled 109s that make up the bulk of the German fighter forces in War Thunder. Seeing combat in the Spanish Civil War, the B-1 allowed the Germans to acquire valuable combat experience and develop the 109s further.

General info

Flight Performance

Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.

Characteristics
Stock
Max Speed
(km/h at 4,000 m)
Max altitude
(meters)
Turn time
(seconds)
Rate of climb
(meters/second)
Take-off run
(meters)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
438 432 9,000 23.5 24.0 5.8 7.4 210
Upgraded
Max Speed
(km/h at 4,000 m)
Max altitude (meters) Turn time (seconds) Rate of climb
(meters/second)
Take-off run (meters)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
491 465 9,000 20.6 22.0 16.2 10.2 210

Details

Features
Combat flap Take-off flap Landing flap Air brakes Arrestor gear
X X
Limits
Wing-break speed
(km/h)
Gear limit
(km/h)
Combat flap
(km/h)
Max Static G
+ -
789 320 500 ~27 ~12
Optimal velocities
Ailerons
(km/h)
Rudder
(km/h)
Elevators
(km/h)
Radiator
(km/h)
< 370 < 370 < 420 > 250
Compressor (RB/SB)
Setting 1
Optimal altitude 100% Engine power WEP Engine power
1,250 m 670 hp 704hp
Setting 2
Optimal altitude 100% Engine power WEP Engine power
3,200 m 600 hp 660 hp

Survivability and armour

Despite having no armor this aircraft is very survivable. The first thing that you will lose is likely the engine. The engine is great for soaking up shots taken from head-on attacks, bombers, etc and saves your pilot from eating a storm of bullets (albiet you may die from a crash due to stalling). When fighting bi-planes and other 1.0-2.0 planes their bullets aren't very effective unless aimed correctly, and most 1.0-2.0 pilots are just starting out and may not be good at aiming; coupled with good evasive maneuvers this aircraft can survive long enough to escape low-powered planes: saving your life.

Armaments

Offensive armament

Main article: MG 17 (7.92 mm)

The Bf 109 B-1/L is armed with:

  • 2 x 7.92 mm MG 17 machine gun, nose-mounted (500 rpg = 1,000 total)

Usage in battles

Against fighters that are able to tank quite a few 7.92 mm, the best option to quickly dispatch an enemy is to aim specifically for the pilot.

Against bombers, the Bf 109 B-1 performs poorly. When engaging, aim for the engine or pilot. Due to its bigger hit box, the engine is the preferable of the two. This could cause an engine/fuel tank fire, making the task all the easier. Remember that propellers often take some time to 'stop spinning', so don't be misled into firing all you have into a single engine. A few good bursts will do the trick just nicely. Alternate to the second/third/fourth engine once you feel like the previous one had enough. Picking of the gunners might also allow you to stay behind the bomber, littering a certain area/ engine. However, this calls for some good shots and a loss of valuable time if you don't get them in your initial pass.

Specific enemies worth noting

The current (1.73) Matchmaker and BR systems are unkind to this plane. The Bf 109 B-1 runs the risk of meeting Hurricanes, a plane introduced to the RAF in 1935 that has a far heavier armament and shorter snap turns. Against better performing enemies, the Bf 109 B-1 is not hopeless, but it will be tough. It is not exactly sturdy and will be quickly stitched to death by heavily armed enemies. Here, maneuverability is key, allowing you to roll out of an incoming attack quickly, setting up overshoots to keep the enemy at bay. A surprising number of players will lose their patience in such moments, making mistakes and thus nullifying their performance advantage. Nearly all planes of superior performance turn worse than a B-1, so if you manage to bleed their speed and pull them to the deck, you will be able to win a turning engagement. However, keep a watchful eye for better turning enemies such as biplanes.

Counter-tactics

The Bf 109 B-1 is going to be a rude awakening for those that flock to the 109s due to their historic reputation. While a capable pre-war fighter, it is severely lacking in firepower. Its two MG 17s 7.92 mm are just about adequate when engaging biplanes or I-16s, but lack punch against tougher opponents such as Hawker Hurricanes. Just about any enemy you might meet has either comparable or better armament.

What the plane lacks in firepower, it makes up in maneuverability, with the later trademark Bf 109 energy fighting capabilities displayed. A capable pilot can make this aircraft dance like any Messerschmitt, but it requires discipline, precision and effective use of the two MG 17’s. When engaging planes that are of the Spanish Civil War Era, the B-1 does best by using its speed and superior climb rate to place itself into an advantageous attack position, and then launching one concentrated attack after the other on its target. Remember to always recycle your speed into altitude and back as the fight progresses. Before zoom climbing back up from an attack, remember to extend a little bit to avoid getting picked off from a prop-hang. As you zoom up, check your surroundings to keep good situational awareness.

Manual Engine Control

MEC elements
Mixer Pitch Radiator Supercharger Turbocharger
Oil Water Type
Controllable Not controllable Not controllable Not controllable Separate Not controllable Not controllable

Modules

Tier Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
I Fuselage Repair, Radiator Offensive 7 mm
II Compressor Airframe
III Wing Repair, Engine New 7 mm MGs
IV Engine Injection Cover

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Excellent agility, able to do very sharp turns
  • Good energy conservation
  • Very useful during dogfights since it is able to out manouver the oponent
  • Has excellent control during slow speed

Cons:

  • Not the fastest option at its rank
  • Considerably weak armament
  • May be too responsive for some players

History

The Bf 109 B-1 came out of the prototype V series of the 109s to see combat in the Spanish Civil War. While the 109s faced various issues from engine performance/reliability to an obvious lack of 'punch', the experience proved to yield valuable data allowing for design improvement, ensuring the success of later Bf 109 models.

While the B-1 was the only production model of the 109 carrying the 'Berta' designation, later models that saw improvements to the variable pitch carried the unofficial designation of B-2. A B-1/Late did not exist but might be used by War Thunder instead of B-2.

A notable feature of the Bf 109 B-1 is its massive opening in the cowling. While production models carried a third MG 17 firing out of said cowling, this was nearly always removed after combat trials during the Spanish Civil War. Although the fixed gun was cooled by the air coming in through the hole, it proved unreliable and a detriment to the plane. The War Thunder Bf 109 B-1 does not have this MG 17.

Media

Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.

See also

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

External links


Bavarian Aircraft Corporation (BFW*)
Bf 109  Flegel's Bf 109 A · Bf 109 B-1 · Bf 109 C-1 · Bf 109 E-1 · Bf 109 E-3 · Bf 109 E-4 · Bf 109 E-7/U2
  Bf 109 F-1 · Bf 109 F-2 · Bf 109 F-4 · Bf 109 F-4/trop · Bf 109 G-2/trop · Bf 109 G-6 · Bf 109 K-4 · Bf 109 G-10 · Bf 109 G-14 · Bf 109 Z-1
Bf 110  Bf 110 C-6 · Bf 110 C-7 · Bf 110 F-2 · Bf 110 G-2 · Bf 110 G-4
Me 410  Me 410 A-1 · Me 410 A-1/U2 · Me 410 A-1/U4 · Me 410 B-1 · Me 410 B-1/U2 · Me 410 B-2/U4 · Me 410 B-6/R3
Bombers  Me 264
Jet Fighters  Me 163 B · Me 163 B-0 · Me 262 A-1a · Me 262 A-1a/Jabo · Me 262 A-1a/U1 · Me 262 A-1/U4 · Me 262 A-2a · Me 262 C-1a · Me 262 C-2b
Export  ▅Bf 109 E-7 · ▄Bf 109 G-14/AS · ◐Bf 109 F-4 · ◐Bf 109 G-2 · Bf 109 G-2 · ▄Bf 109 G-2 · ▄Bf 109 G-6 · ▄Bf 109 G-6 Erla · ◐Bf 110 G-4
Captured  ▃Bf 109 F-4
  * BFW was later renamed Messerschmitt Aktiengesellschaft (AG) on 11 July 1938. All aircraft currently in production at this time retained the designation Bf while those developed after this date had the designation Me.

Germany fighters
Heinkel 
He 51  He 51 A-1 · He 51 B-1 · He 51 B-2/H · He 51 C-1 · He 51 C-1/L
He 100  He 100 D-1
He 112  He 112 A-0 · He 112 B-0 · He 112 B-1/U2 · He 112 B-2/U2 · He 112 V-5
Messerschmitt 
Bf 109 (Jumo)  Flegel's Bf 109 A · Bf 109 B-1 · Bf 109 C-1
Bf 109 (DB-601)  Bf 109 E-1 · Bf 109 E-3 · Bf 109 E-4 · Bf 109 E-7/U2 · Bf 109 F-1 · Bf 109 F-2 · Bf 109 F-4 · Bf 109 F-4/trop
Bf 109 (DB-605)  Bf 109 G-2/trop · Bf 109 G-2 · Bf 109 G-6 · Bf 109 G-10 · Bf 109 G-14 · Bf 109 K-4
Focke-Wulf 
Fw 190 (early)  Fw 190 A-1 · Fw 190 A-4 · Fw 190 A-5 · Fw 190 A-5 · Fw 190 A-5/U2 · Fw 190 A-5/U14 · Fw 190 A-8 · Fw 190 C
Fw 190 (late)  Fw 190 D-9 · Fw 190 D-12 · Fw 190 D-13
Ta 152  Ta 152 C-3 · Ta 152 H-1
Blohm & Voss 
BV 155  BV 155 B-1
  Captured:
USA  ▀P-47D-16-RE · ▀P-47D
USSR  ▀La-5FN · ▀Yak-1B
Britain  ▀Tempest Mk V
Italy 
CR.42  ▀CR.42 · ▀Marcolin's C.R.42 CN
G.50  ▀G.50 serie 2 · ▀G.50 AS serie 7
C.200  ▀C. 200 serie 3 · ▀C. 200 serie 7
C.202  ▀C. 202
Finland  ▀Hawk H-75A-2