SE5a machine gun

[haltux]

Hello,

 

That might be a naïve question, but how the upper machine gun of the SE5a was actually operated? Were there a deported trigger on the joystick? Or did you have to actually trigger it on the trigger of the machine gun over you?

 

In the second case it would be great if you had to do the same when playing in VR.

 

Additionaly, are there plans to implement the ability to move the machine gun to make it shoot above you?

 

Thanks!

 

[BMA_FlyingShark]

47 minutes ago, haltux said:

Additionaly, are there plans to implement the ability to move the machine gun to make it shoot above you?

You already can (left shift + C).

 

Have a nice day.

 

.

[Cybermat47]

Based on RoF, for which I think it’s safe to assume that the matter was researched thoroughly, the trigger for the Lewis was on the joystick.

Edited June 15, 2019 by [Pb]Cybermat47

[Trooper117]

1 hour ago, haltux said:

That might be a naïve question, but how the upper machine gun of the SE5a was actually operated?

 

There was a 'Bowden Cable' from the control column to Lewis gun.

The pilot operated the trigger on the control column and the cable connected to the gun would operate the mechanism on the Lewis.

[SP1969]

Just to add to Trooper's comment, a Bowden Cable is exactly the sort of thing you saw on your push bike when you were a boy, used to operate the brakes.

 

As seen above -  a Lewis on a Foster mount on an Avro 504 - the 'Bowden cable' is clearly visible.

 

All it is, is a spiral wound cable, free moving in a flexible tubular sleeve.

 

Changing the ammunition drum involved hauling the machine gun down the curved rail of the Foster mount and changing it manually - whilst flying the aeroplane with your knees.

 

Those chaps must have needed a wheelbarrow to haul their testicles about.....

 

Edited June 16, 2019 by SP1969

[haltux]

Thanks a lot for all these detailed answers! Much appreciated.