whats the difference in a 400 TT FO and a 800 hr FO if all of that time was obtained instructing or beating up the pattern. I don't see much difference. I think quality of time far outways numbers and hours of teaching how to land a 172. Not trying to be negative but after seeing guys of all experience levels being good/bad I have come to the conclusion that it is impossible to tell the quality of a pilot simply by counting hours.
The truth is, for a period of time, both the 400 hour and 800 hour FO are going to be far behind the aircraft, after getting used to the Jet/TP it's up to the individual's airmanship and commitment to becoming a solid aviator.
Just thinking out loud.
Couldn't have said it better myself.