Sticking it out (360).

[AutomaticAddict]

Well, I didnt return my Saitek Av8r. I decided to give the thing one more go this past weekend after looking at some youtube reviews for both this and the Ace edge stick. Actually, I switched between the controller and the Av8r in sim training with the same options for each test (planes, loadout, enemies,), and found a renewed interst in the stick despite its shortcommings. For myself, in considering a flight stick purchase, the deadzone and the ergonomics was a big issue. This really is not so bad a stick, and I think with a little innovation using it can become quite an edge in game. I originally complained about the deadzone and the whole unit rocking around on my knees while trying to fly. I found, by placing a 3 ring binder in your lap with the ring end toward you helps with these issues. The added stability actually made the "deadzone" quite small, like the whole thing rocking on my knees had actually attributed to it. My second gripe was about the sticks ergonomics, as my first few hours with the Av8r gave me carpal tunnel cramps. After reading that some players have wrapped tennis racket tape around the handle for better feel, I made a quick trip down to Wally World and bought some baseball bat grip tape (tennis is for girls.) which is twice as thick. After applying it to my stick not only does it look badass, but I can go twice as long without cramps and there is way more control when twisting for rudder due to no slip and a beefy grip. After affixing these mods to the stick I enjoy using it over the pad and the edge in sim is realized, for sure I am not going back. Thanks to all those who post their stick mods for the rest of us, as I would have returned it otherwise without your input. Now that I am into this custom stick modding, I was wondering if anyone has found any rubberized coating to add to the wierd shaped freelook thumbstick on top. The hard plastic cone shape feels strange and I would welcome any input on coating this with a rubber or latex grip. Anyone know where to find something?

[philabong2]

tbh, after moving the map and flaps buttons to a more reachable area, the only thing bugging me about the av8r-03 (for ps3) was that twist action for rudder control, so might try this tape thing.

my ps3 is off for repairs right now so i think im goin to use the "extra time" to try n mod in some pedals for the rudders, ima let u guys kno if this works

[Robotic Pope]

Addict you've conviced me. Once the patch is out and the brakes are working, I'm gonna buy an Av8r and mod it like you and the others have. Then I may think about moving buttons after a few months if I have problems with them.

[flynlion]

I use a completely stock av8r with 360 and for the most part I like it. Only thing that does bug me is the small but annoying deadzone.

[InfiniteStates]

Addict you've conviced me. Once the patch is out and the brakes are working, I'm gonna buy an Av8r and mod it like you and the others have...
Or you could do it now, so when the patch hits you're ready to start the killin' ;)

[AutomaticAddict]

In my search for a rubber compound to apply to the uncoated plastic look thumbstick atop the Av8r, I looked around on-line and stumbled across a site for a material called Plasti-Dip that is also distributed to popular hardware stores. After taking a trip to the Home Depot I found they had this in spray and a dip formula. I paid roughly 7 bucks for a can of the dip, which comes with a re-sealable lid. I took a paper plate and poured about 1/8 the contents of the dip evenly around the plate. I then submerged only the piece of the freelook thumbstick up to the bottom of the mushroom shaped grip so as not to get any into the inner workings or travel area of the small stick. After letting the setup dry for about 3 hours I tried it out and AwEsOmE! Way more positive grip on the thumbstick for looking, especially when pulling back on the flightstick while engaged in a high G maneuver, even if you manage to only catch the edge of the little stick by accident with your thumb, it is enough to use it effectivly in combat. I have even found some other uses for this gunk around the house, like adding a protective coating to the bottom of my expensive smoking glassware hehe...