I'd have to agree with the importance of using the programming software to get the most out of this stick. I mapped my primary buttons the way I normally would, but then set up an Aces High Profile that allows me to use the shift buttons,etc. This way I get dual use of all my buttons, and my hat switch. My hat set-up gives me my normal 9 views (with default forward), F2 is my up view, using both together gives 45 degree up views. I can hit the up view button with my pinky, while using throttle, etc. Shift-Hat is my trim. Shift-forward hat is down, back is up, L/R is aileron, Back L/R is rudder. I love it this way, I can trim in a fight without looking away from moniter. I use F1 as damage, with Shift F1 and F2 as flaps up/down. Steve, did you ever get your hat switch to give you the views you were looking for? I had some problems figuring out how to get the EVO to work properly in joystick set-up at first, but eventually figured it out.