Editing Grumman F8F Bearcat (section)

===Prototypes===
The design was completed in November 1943 and an order for two prototypes was placed on 27 November 1943 under the BuAir designation XF8F-1. The first prototype flew on 21 August 1944, only nine months after the design effort started.<ref>Gunston 1988, p. 48.</ref><ref>Francillon 1989, p. 243.</ref>{{efn|One account states the first flight on 13 August.<ref>{{cite book |first=Richard |last=Thruelsen |title=The Grumman Story |publisher=Praeger |year=1976 |page=213}}</ref>}} The initial flight test demonstrated a {{convert|4,800|ft/min|abbr=on}} climb rate and a top speed of {{convert|424|mph|abbr=on}}. Compared to the [[Vought F4U Corsair]], the Bearcat was marginally slower, but more maneuverable and climbed more quickly.

Testing demonstrated a number of problems, notably a lack of horizontal stability, an underpowered trim system, landing gear that could be extended only at slow speeds, an unreliable airspeed indicator, and a cramped cockpit. The test pilots also requested that six guns be installed. The stability problem was addressed on the second prototype by adding a triangular fillet to the front of the vertical stabilizer. The extra guns could not be incorporated due to weight and balance considerations.