Galland's Bf 109E-4/N, late 1940

[bulldog]

Galland was extremely critical of the Bf 109F-4's lack of firepower. Of course the next step was the introduction of the Field Conversion Sets with the pair of MG 151 cannon in the underwing gondolas and this affected the handling performance of the aircraft, bringing more grumbling from pilots. And yes, there were pilots quite satisfied with the F-4's lighter firepower as they felt the tradeoff for superior speed and manouvreability versus heavy firepower was adequate compensation when in action against enemy fighters.
Nevertheless this was a vicious cycle that would plague the 109 for the rest of the war.
Regards Bulldog.