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Originally Posted by CaptBones
Well, I don't really want to "torpedo" Sailor Steve's logic or contradict Jimbuna's experience
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Why not? Other experiences and opinions are not only welcome, but vital.
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...but...steering with astern way on is extremely easy and very accurate in twin-screw destroyers and "Fleet" type submarines (probably just as good for U-Boats). I once backed the USS Laffey (DD 724) through the inner harbor of Grand Harbor, Valleta, Malta, to "Med Moor" at Fort St. Angelo.
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How fast? It's my understanding that the big problem isn't slow maneuvering in harbor but maintaining a straight course at high speed. Then again, I was a humble radioman and never got to do fun stuff like steer the ship.
That said, I use sources which describe the real problems encountered, so it's not just theory.
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The pivot point in the mentioned ship types moves forward (toward the bow) when going in the astern direction with way on.
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This source says the pivot point moves aft when travelling in reverse. I don't claim to know, but...
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I won the Pacific Fleet Shiphandling Award in 1974 by backing a single-screw "Knox" Class Frigate to starboard while making a "two bell" landing maneuver at berth B-26 in Pearl Harbor. I taught that maneuver to the students at Surface Warfare Officer School in San Diego for several years after that..."The Book" says it can't be done.
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Them's some mighty fine credentials. I'll bow to your experience.