F7F Tigercat Pilot's Flight Operating Instructions

Built with twin, underwing engines, tricycle landing gear and shoulder-mounted wings, the Grumman F7F Tigercat was an unusual looking, all-metal fighter. It was also one of the highest- performance piston-engined fighters of all time. Originally designed as a carrier-based aircraft, the F7F failed its initial trials, and ended up flying primarily as a land-based attack aircraft for the Marines. Equipped with radar and a second seat for an operator, the Tigercat also flew as a night-fighter and reconnaissance platform. Although it was introduced in 1944, the Tigercat never saw action in WWII, and had a limited role in Korea. The F7F found a new role in non- military use, flying as a fire-fighting aircraft and camera ship for Hollywood in the 1970s. Originally printed by the U.S. Navy, this declassified F7F Flight Operating Manual taught pilots everything they needed to know before entering the cockpit. This facsimile has been slightly reformatted. Care has been taken to preserve the integrity of the text.