1. For .com and .net domains, drops start at 2 PM Eastern Time and can last over an hour if many names are dropping. For .org domains, it depends on the registrar, and many registrars aren't consistent with their drops.
2. If the status is REDEMPTIONPERIOD, add 37 days to the updated date, assuming it doesn't get restored. If the status is PENDINGDELETE, add 6 days to the updated date. If it's on hold, it depends on the registrar.
3. Yes, see
#2.
4. SnapNames partners with various registrars to go after names during drop time. Perhaps DomainRetriever can answer your questions.