Hi guys, just want an opinion on which is the best joystick for FS and if there is some kind of throttle (2 or preferably 4 engine) out there that doesn't cost an arm and a leg (willing to spend about 100 bucks).Thanks,Dave

:Dhttp://members.aol.com/horizcs/access.htmlOk, a little more than $100.....

I'm pretty happy with my CH Yoke if that is of any interest. If you insist on using a stick, I hear they make a fine one of those as well although I have no personal experience with them. My stick is the TM Cougar. Pretty pricey items but with some usability issues. Check out the CH stuff.Jay Eklund - Pilot 4332Senior VP Denver Operationshttp://www.pacificwestairways.com

I will also vouch for the CH yokes for around $109 it is the best you can get. I'm looking forward to getting the throttle next, I just got the rudders and I can't believe I flew without them.

Ya just a little...Dave

Guys, what do you think of The "saitek X-45" stick and throttle.It does have a lot of programable buttons.Dave

I have the Saitek X45 aswell, and as mentioned before you can program the buttons to certain keys on your keyboard. For example, on VATSIM my PTT (Push to Talk) button is F9. I go into the Saitek software, enter in which button on the joystick will control the F9 key, and whala...Done! Very nice feature...

For HOTAS the Saitek X45 is very nice. I have an X36 and it's still kicking after two years of abuse. Replaced my old analog Thrustmaster.For commercial sims, highly recommend the CH products USB stuff. They are about (ok, they have been about to release for about 6 months now) a new throttle quadrant for 4 engine controls + flaps / spoilers. Not as sophisticated as the GoFlight stuff, but not the same price either.Also, the CH product pedals are a must with their toe-brakes.

I love my X45. I don't have pedals but don't find that much need for them with the X45. The only thing I sometimes wish for is dual throttles. Sometimes on the ground I want to turn with power and cannot unless I move the throttles with the mouse.

I have a CH Flight Sim Yoke PC (gameport) and CH Pro Pedals. I paid $260.00 Canadian for the set 5 years ago. They work as well now as they did new. I use them for all my civilian flying where a yoke is appropriate for the plane. I also have a Saitek X45 HOTAS that I have had for years and paid $135.00 Canadian. I used to own an X35 that I purchased for $60.00 American directly from Saitek's website, from the "refurbished" section. They worked perfectly for the 2 years I owned them (sold them locally for $90.00). I use the X45 Hotas for all my military and approriate civilian flight sims.I have NEVER had a problem with either products.Final note... The Saitek Cyborg and the MS Precision 2 sticks are very precise and sturdy products as well. I own both of these and have them attached to my second and third computers here at home.Hope this helps!Murray

I have the Ch pedals and yoke and have loved it for quite awhile. I talked my wife into letting me get the HOTAS cougar for Fighters and LOMAC. I thought I would try to use the CH yoke while flying airlines, I found it was really a sub par piece of hardware. I have gone back to using the joystick even though I realize it is not exactly realistic but the chances of me getting a PFC yoke is slim to none. The level of control has really blown me away. This is simply my opinion.

Ok guys I think I'll go for the X45 right now.Altough it's not appropriate (realism speaking) I do believe it's a valid alternative and gives a little more than a regular joystick considering the high number of buttons one can program; the price is not that high compared to buying yoke, rudder pedals, and a throttle console from CH. Despite all of your good words they are still out of my price range.Poor little boy I am....Anyway thanks a lot for your suggestions and hope to be as helpfull for you next time,Dave

Almost forgot,HAPPY CANADA DAY!...to all the canadians out there.Dave:-)

If you don't want to build a 737 cockpit, the X45 is pretty appropriate ;)

I use the X-45 and find it awesome. The only real problem I have is that the stick is a little stiff to move. I frequently take an old birthday candle and rub some of the wax along the centering disc which seems to relieve the problem for a while. I have also heard that some people take small zip ties and put them through the spring so that they can reduce that amount of centering force. Also, you will probably find that the rudder switch is not all that useful. I found an old set of CH gameport rudder pedals and hacked into the throttle unit, separated out the wires for the rudder and wired it up to the pedals. Works like a charm! Just no toe brakes, oh well can't have every thing. All in all, I give it two thumbs up for its cost, software and programmability.P.S. Thanks about the Canada Day thing.