I never used a twisty stick, but many do. I have the whole CH setup - FighterStick, ProThrottle and ProPedals. From what I hear, it takes getting used to the twisty stick's tendency to have rudder inputs when you don't want, especially if you're a bit ham-fisted on the stick and twist it by mistake.
Rudder pedals are more natural (at least for me) but some people take time to get the hang of 'em. Personally, I can't see how you'd fly without some kind of analog rudder input.
I also have the TrackIR Pro and find it much easier to keep my SA and track my prey. But I generally don't use it while in a GV - only while flying. My profile is a bit aggressive, so I don't have to turn my head much to get a full high (or low) six view. On my 24" widescreen, I sit about three feet from it, and I only need to point my nose at the edge of the monitor to have my game head all the way backwards.