Hey Bucky, ya man that is a good joystick. I have the same one. Actually, I own the previous model - the X36 - but it is almost the same except for the blue plating. The only problem is the rudder controls took a shit in less than a year. My question is do you really need the extra hardware for the throttle and rudder controls? Could you use the keyboard instead? I don't want you to experience the same problem.

I threw away the X36 and I bought a $20 Saitek Cyborg Graphite from Wal-Mart. I was surprised when I discovered that my new joystick actually performs better than the X36. I only use it for Battlefield 1942 and Desert Combat so I really do not know how well it would work with a flight sim.

I am not recommending the Cyborg Graphite, I am simply trying to make you aware of what I have experienced. If at all possible, purchase some sort of extended warranty or call Saitek and ask if they have had any issues with the rudder on the X45.

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