S.L.N., I too am not fond of the Thrustmaster stuff. I don't like how you have to plug the Cougar throttle into the stick, I really don't like the twist rudder on their other sticks and they just don't feel right in my hand.

Have you tried a CH stick? They're fairly large, comfortable and durable as well as very programmable, the support is excellent etc. I have a Fighterstick and I adore it, best stick I've ever used. At gogamer.com it's $99 (http://www.gogamer.com/viewproduct.htm? ... Id=8784058) Or the Combatstick on amazon.com for about $80 (

In my opinion, the CH stuff has come down in price to where it is now quite affordable. Hope this helps.