Whats the best joystick? Logitech 3d keeps having issues

[OkieOkie]

I'm currently using Logitech "Extreme 3d Pro". I know part of the problem is I get in combat and overwork the js until I wear it out but I don't think I have ever completely set it up correctly with proper damping, & all things correctly assigned in the options window. After a month, this one lists to the left. Tried correcting but messed up the settings so bad I'm going to re-install AH3 as a way to start over. I don't see a specific folder I can just delete to get 'everything' back to default.

1) What is the best joystick for AH3?
2) Are there some complete directions / tutorial for how to set up the joystick completely?

Thanks
Okie

[Mayhem]

Best .... Virpil or VKB

For Virpil the Constellation Alpha or a Virpil Mongoos CM2 Grip on a warbrd or CM2 Base. For VKB the Gunfighter Mk.III ‘Modern Combat Edition.

As an honorable mention I have to toss out the WinWing Orion which is an out and out TM: Warthog killer for a lower price but they are hard to get.

Virpil is hardest to set up due to software, VKB is much easier, Wingwing is probably easiest.

[OkieOkie]

THanks I'll check those out. Any thoughts about Thrustmaster?

[Eagler]

T1600 is the best bang for the buck these days IMO.
Used one in between the last X52 setup and my current warthog

I use the thrustmaster throttle that is the mate to the T1600 with the warthog

Eagler

[JimmyD3]

I have a Logitech X56 Rhino, I love it.

[Gman]

I think the CH Fighterstick is worth a mention too - look around online for a good used one if $ is a factor.

I have a large hotas collection and many years of playing online/offline with them.

I have 6 Virpil sticks, 8 grips, 4 of their throttles, their collective heli units, 5 different custom rudder pedals, 2 VKB Gfighters, 4 TM Wartogs, 2 Cougars, and a pile (a collection of Hotas since 1998 and before) of other Hotas, 20 stick/rudder combos of Saitek and the like.

Every Stick/Hotas/Rudder combo has it's pros and cons.  Budget is extremely important regarding the OPs question IMO.  I've picked up NiB CH Fighterstick and throttle combos online here in Canada for very little $ - like $30 USD for both (I can post pics of all of this stuff..again).  Something along these lines is what I'd recommend, again, if cost/price is a large factor.  If it isn't, as Mayhem recommended, Virpil or VKB are the best options at the moment.

Regarding TM Warthogs.  It's a great HOTAS, but eventually, the stick will get the "sticktion" issue, and will require you to take it apart, replace the ring, completely clean it, re grease it properly, and then reassemble.  Of the 4 TM WH sticks I have, 3 have had this happen in varying degrees of time and use.  Also, their customer service is in France, and in my experience, a GIANT PITA.  That said, many love the TM WH, and it isn't a "bad" choice, but for the price now...go with VKB's Gunfighter, or Vipil's 2 options, depending if you want to play on the desktop or off of a desk clamp setup.

You also have to consider your throttle and pedals setups, or at least the stick you want's ability to control these axis. 

[Gman]

oops, DP.

[Devil 505]

T1600 is the best bang for the buck these days IMO.
Used one in between the last X52 setup and my current warthog

I use the thrustmaster throttle that is the mate to the T1600 with the warthog

Eagler

I'd love to continue to saying that the T16000M is a great stick, but the fact is that the Z-axis (twisty stick input)on my last 2 sticks has been fubar within 2 months of purchase. In each case, I used the sensor cannibalized from the very first T16000M I bought 7-8 years ago to fix the issue.

Otherwise, the stick will last about 3 years before the trigger, hat switch, or throttle wears out. Not bad for what was usually a $60-70 stick.

[Drano]

I'm a few years into a VKB Gunfighter with MCG-Pro grip. Can't imagine a better stick. It's super bullet proof constructed, precise and super smooth. It's hyper configurable with different cams, springs and dampers. Change what you want to make it your own. The software isn't the easiest to deal with but if you can think of something you want a button or hat to do.... It'll prolly do it. Once you get the hang of it you're fine. It cost more than a few bucks but I don't think I'll ever be buying another stick.

Sent from my SM-G991U using Tapatalk

[Gman]

I'm a few years into a VKB Gunfighter with MCG-Pro grip. Can't imagine a better stick. It's super bullet proof constructed, precise and super smooth. It's hyper configurable with different cams, springs and dampers. Change what you want to make it your own. The software isn't the easiest to deal with but if you can think of something you want a button or hat to do.... It'll prolly do it. Once you get the hang of it you're fine. It cost more than a few bucks but I don't think I'll ever be buying another stick.

Sent from my SM-G991U using Tapatalk

Agreed- so long as the budget supports it.  You truly get what you pay for with the VKB (Virpil as well), in fact more IMO. 

[Eagler]

Should add using rudder pedals so no twisty function experience with any jstick

Eagler

[DaddyAce]

Love my VKB with MCG grip.      Was also happy with CH stuff and still use their Pro pedals & Pro throttle, but has been mentioned in past threads their quality control has apparently been very bad since they were bought out..

[Drano]

For pedals I have MFG Crosswinds. They're also very well built, smooth and precise. They have toe brakes too. All contactless sensors. Get the damper mod too, I did. Took them to another level of precision I didn't think was possible.

Sent from my SM-G991U using Tapatalk

[Cluzig]

Should add using rudder pedals so no twisty function experience with any jstick

Eagler

The exact part which usually gives way in all cheap sticks, those pedals might have saved u a lot.

[streakeagle]

If money is no object, I have found the VKB MCG Ultimate grip/Gunfighter base combo to be the perfect grip/stick for me.
I can't find a flaw with the hardware.
The configuration software can be tricky/confusing to learn if you need to customize the control maps/functionality, but once you learn, it can do just about anything you want.