VKB Gunfighter MkIII on the Way, Setup Tips Appreciated

[kissTheSky]

I was able to order a GF MkIII with MCGU grip the last time it was on stock, and it will be delivered next week.

 

I wanted to hear your setup tips and configurations if you’re willing to share. I play in VR and wanted the ability to have as many buttons as MCGU grip has.

 

 Thanks 

[Grimnir]

It is a great stick, I got mine three weeks ago. Will you be using an extension? I ended up installing a set of extra #20 springs for a total of 2x20 on each axis (it comes installed default with 1x20 on each axis). But I recommend you just attach the grip first and try it out before doing any adjustments. As for configurations I haven’t found my perfect setup yet, but having trim, weapons and zoom easily available is a must.

[dburne]

Congrats you are in for a treat! Great choice of base and grip!!

 

There is a great FAQ over on the VKB North America site. I would review how to replace springs and cams as I am sure you will be tweaking that at first.

You will also likely need to flash the device to get it to talk to the Ultimate Grip. Have a look at the software and flashing instructions. Also the calibrating instructions. Do not try to calibrate in Windows calibration.

 

https://vkbcontrollers.com/?page_id=14365

 

Edited June 27, 2021 by dburne

[kissTheSky]

3 hours ago, Grimnir said:

It is a great stick, I got mine three weeks ago. Will you be using an extension? I ended up installing a set of extra #20 springs for a total of 2x20 on each axis (it comes installed default with 1x20 on each axis). But I recommend you just attach the grip first and try it out before doing any adjustments. As for configurations I haven’t found my perfect setup yet, but having trim, weapons and zoom easily available is a must.

Thanks @Grimnir, I think it was your “Spring” thread on VKB forums that made me realize they may be in stock (curiosity->itch->wallet).   I ordered it with the long extension, but I think I won’t be able to use it until I build the flight specific cockpit. Right now I have a single cockpit setup for driving/flight, which has the stick to the right of my seat, which is butting against a wall. I’m afraid the larger roll swing will have me hit the wall if I start with the extension right away. 
 

28 minutes ago, dburne said:

Congrats you are in for a treat! Great choice of base and grip!!

 

There is a great FAQ over on the VKB North America site. I would review how to replace springs and cams as I am sure you will be tweaking that at first.

You will also likely need to flash the device to get it to talk to the Ultimate Grip. Have a look at the software and flashing instructions. Also the calibrating instructions. Do not try to calibrate in Windows calibration.

 

https://vkbcontrollers.com/?page_id=14365

 

Thanks Don. The last part was exactly the kind of VKB specific tips I was looking for. I’ll take a closer look at the FAQ before it comes on Tuesday. 
 

I've read the configuration software manual, but without having the grip in hand, i was lost after a while. Not having the controller in hand and just trying to read got a bit “academic” once it came to advanced features.

Edited June 27, 2021 by kissTheSky

[dburne]

8 minutes ago, kissTheSky said:

Thanks @Grimnir, I think it was your “Spring” thread on VKB forums that made me realize they may be in stock (curiosity->itch->wallet).

Thanks Don. The last part was exactly the kind of VKB specific tips I was looking for. I’ll take a closer look at the FAQ before it comes on Tuesday. 
 

I've read the configuration software manual, but without having the grip in hand, i was lost after a while. Not having the controller in hand and just trying to read got a bit “academic” once it came to advanced features.

 

Yeah that VKB software can get complex and daunting for sure.

Main thing I have used it for was flashing firmware, and like adding a button to the paddle axis which comes in handy.

I do not get too deep in the weeds with the software.

 

Also with your Ultimate Grip it will come with two POV hats installed, and it will also include two extra hats that are buttons = 4 way and press.

I changed those two hats out as I prefer the additional buttons. It also includes some black plastic button covers for the round white buttons, I replaced those with the black to make mine more stealthy lol.

 

You should also get a spring pull tool with the setup. You will know it when you see it. A metal cable with loop on the end.

Makes pulling and installing springs a breeze, definitely use it.

Also if you change cams, pay very careful attention to how the washer placement is in each one. Make sure to always install a cam using the same washer placement. This is important.

 

Have fun, you will have one great stick setup there.

[kissTheSky]

Thanks Don,

 

I will do the hat->button replacement as well. I really don’t need the hats, and I think I may put radiator/cowl adjustments to those buttons. 
 

As far as in game assignments go, in game setup still works without having to go through assign them in VKB software (unless getting into macros), doesn’t it? I wasn’t sure if one needs to keep VKB software running and have it apply configuration every time the game is started. 
 

it will be here Tuesday just to coincide with the start of my 3 days off work, so I’m exited. I got tired of fixing my X45’s trigger spring going out of its seat and looking forward to having a better stick. 

[dburne]

4 minutes ago, kissTheSky said:

Thanks Don,

 

I will do the hat->button replacement as well. I really don’t need the hats, and I think I may put radiator/cowl adjustments to those buttons. 
 

As far as in game assignments go, in game setup still works without having to go through assign them in VKB software (unless getting into macros), doesn’t it? I wasn’t sure if one needs to keep VKB software running and have it apply configuration every time the game is started. 
 

it will be here Tuesday just to coincide with the start of my 3 days off work, so I’m exited. I got tired of fixing my X45’s trigger spring going out of its seat and looking forward to having a better stick. 

 

Yeah that is nice timing!

Yes in game setup will work just fine.

No need to go through VKB software.

Only time I use their software now is if I need to calibrate or update firmware, neither of which I have needed to do in some time now.

In fact I think the last time I did was when I installed the Ultimate Grip around the first of the year.

[Grimnir]

3 hours ago, kissTheSky said:

Thanks @Grimnir, I think it was your “Spring” thread on VKB forums that made me realize they may be in stock (curiosity->itch->wallet).   I ordered it with the long extension, but I think I won’t be able to use it until I build the flight specific cockpit. Right now I have a single cockpit setup for driving/flight, which has the stick to the right of my seat, which is butting against a wall. I’m afraid the larger roll swing will have me hit the wall if I start with the extension right away. 

 

Lol small world, but yeah I’ve had that itch for a long time. Now I’m running the MK.III, MK IV rudders and a TCWS . Will order the TECS throttle when it finally releases. For now I’m just using my desktop, but will propably set up something more crazy soon.

 

Anyways: happy flying when you get your stick.:-D

[dburne]

One final thought @kissTheSky.

IIRC the Gunfighter ships with it's dampers fully tightened to help prevent any movement during shipping.

You will definitely want to looses those dampers up before you attach the grip and start moving the stick through it's extremes.

You can play around with it at that time and see where the adjustment feels best for you, by putting grip on after loosening and moving it whilst you make adjustments.

 

Edited June 28, 2021 by dburne

[kissTheSky]

Whoa! It looks like it might be delivered today! 
 

i dont know if FedEx international delivery needs signature, but instead of the original delivery date of tomorrow it’s out for delivery today. 
 

I may have a nice surprise when I get home :)

[dburne]

11 minutes ago, kissTheSky said:

Whoa! It looks like it might be delivered today! 
 

i dont know if FedEx international delivery needs signature, but instead of the original delivery date of tomorrow it’s out for delivery today. 
 

I may have a nice surprise when I get home

 

?

Hope it is!

Usually in my experience though Fed Ex required a signature. You should be able to check it online to find out.

[Grimnir]

4 hours ago, dburne said:

One final thought @kissTheSky.

IIRC the Gunfighter ships with it's dampers fully tightened to help prevent any movement during shipping.

You will definitely want to looses those dampers up before you attach the grip and start moving the stick through it's extremes.

You can play around with it at that time and see where the adjustment feels best for you, by putting grip on after loosening and moving it whilst you make adjustments.

 

I don’t think they were fully tightened on mine…. But I could be wrong. He’ll figure it out, its quite easy ?

[kissTheSky]

8 hours ago, kissTheSky said:

Whoa! It looks like it might be delivered today! 
 

i dont know if FedEx international delivery needs signature, but instead of the original delivery date of tomorrow it’s out for delivery today. 
 

I may have a nice surprise when I get home

It was delivered about an hour after my last post. Now that the workday is over, I’m heading home to set this up. I guess it’ll be a long night

 

Thanks guys for the tips. With those and the VKB how-to videos, I feel confident I’ll get it to minimal working setup tonight, and then keep adding bindings and configurations once I feel comfortable with the basics. 

[dburne]

6 minutes ago, kissTheSky said:

It was delivered about an hour after my last post. Now that the workday is over, I’m heading home to set this up. I guess it’ll be a long night

 

Thanks guys for the tips. With those and the VKB how-to videos, I feel confident I’ll get it to minimal working setup tonight, and then keep adding bindings and configurations once I feel comfortable with the basics. 

 

?

You are so in for a treat. You have entered a whole new world of gaming joysticks now.

Enjoy!!

[kissTheSky]

I’m switching springs now and decided to wait on mounting the extension later since I’m quite certain it will the wall. 
 

what spring do you guys recommend for base and grip only?

 

@Grimnir, did you end up changing the #20 springs on yours?

Edit: I settled on #40 springs for now. I’ll try this for a week or so, then I’ll reevaluate. Off to Flash->calibrate->IL-2

Edited June 29, 2021 by kissTheSky

[kissTheSky]

7 hours ago, dburne said:

 

?

You are so in for a treat. You have entered a whole new world of gaming joysticks now.

Enjoy!!

All I can say is “Wow!”  Never knew such smooth axes movement was possible. I’m not going to say they’re cheap, but man, it is worth every penny.  

[dburne]

6 hours ago, kissTheSky said:

All I can say is “Wow!”  Never knew such smooth axes movement was possible. I’m not going to say they’re cheap, but man, it is worth every penny.  

 

Awesome! Glad you like it!

[Grimnir]

18 hours ago, kissTheSky said:

I’m switching springs now and decided to wait on mounting the extension later since I’m quite certain it will the wall. 
 

what spring do you guys recommend for base and grip only?

 

@Grimnir, did you end up changing the #20 springs on yours?

Edit: I settled on #40 springs for now. I’ll try this for a week or so, then I’ll reevaluate. Off to Flash->calibrate->IL-2

Congrats on your new stick! I just added another set of #20 springs on top of the pre-installed ones. Here is what I did:

 

1. Read vkb forums and watched videos. 
2. When I felt brave enough I removed the #20 springs that was installed, turned them so that the spring part was facing inwards (like illustrated in the official video for adding cams and springs, around the 6:16 mark or around there).

3. Added another set of #20 springs with springs facing outward.

4. Tightened the dampers till I feelt some resistance, then loosened them till I was satisfied with the resistance.

 

I figured the #20’s was easier to install than the #40’s. I’m not using any extensions, but I might order a monstertech short mount.
 

ps. I was afraid of breaking it, but it is quite sturdy. ?

 

Edited June 29, 2021 by Grimnir

[dburne]

1 hour ago, Grimnir said:

Congrats on your new stick! I just added another set of #20 springs on top of the pre-installed ones. Here is what I did:

 

1. Read vkb forums and watched videos. 
2. When I felt brave enough I removed the #20 springs that was installed, turned them so that the spring part was facing inwards (like illustrated in the official video for adding cams and springs, around the 6:16 mark or around there).

3. Added another set of #20 springs with springs facing outward.

4. Tightened the dampers till I feelt some resistance, then loosened them till I was satisfied with the resistance.

 

I figured the #20’s was easier to install than the #40’s. I’m not using any extensions, but I might order a monstertech short mount.
 

ps. I was afraid of breaking it, but it is quite sturdy. ?

 

 

I will say at least for me, the Gunfighter with the 200mm extension is really sweet.

[kissTheSky]

2 hours ago, Grimnir said:

Congrats on your new stick! I just added another set of #20 springs on top of the pre-installed ones. Here is what I did:

 

1. Read vkb forums and watched videos. 
2. When I felt brave enough I removed the #20 springs that was installed, turned them so that the spring part was facing inwards (like illustrated in the official video for adding cams and springs, around the 6:16 mark or around there).

3. Added another set of #20 springs with springs facing outward.

4. Tightened the dampers till I feelt some resistance, then loosened them till I was satisfied with the resistance.

 

I figured the #20’s was easier to install than the #40’s. I’m not using any extensions, but I might order a monstertech short mount.
 

ps. I was afraid of breaking it, but it is quite sturdy. ?

 

Thanks. You’re correct, putting in single #40 was a bit more difficult. I have them now coils facing gimbal so I can mount extras easier when it’s time. I feel like I may add more springs later on, but with them on, the stick is buttery smooth across the travel range.

17 minutes ago, dburne said:

 

I will say at least for me, the Gunfighter with the 200mm extension is really sweet.

Don, I will mount the 200 mm extension at some point and I’ll probably have to add more springs to compensate for it. Right now the stick is on the right side of my seat since I’m still using the multi purpose drive/flight pit, and having the stick extended would definitely hit wall at the roll axis. 
 

it’s good to hear the extension works well though, I need to get my butt in gear and get that flight pit built. ?

[dburne]

32 minutes ago, kissTheSky said:

Thanks. You’re correct, putting in single #40 was a bit more difficult. I have them now coils facing gimbal so I can mount extras easier when it’s time. I feel like I may add more springs later on, but with them on, the stick is buttery smooth across the travel range.

Don, I will mount the 200 mm extension at some point and I’ll probably have to add more springs to compensate for it. Right now the stick is on the right side of my seat since I’m still using the multi purpose drive/flight pit, and having the stick extended would definitely hit wall at the roll axis. 
 

it’s good to hear the extension works well though, I need to get my butt in gear and get that flight pit built. ?

 

Hey I gotta say with my Gunfighter Pro L center mounted on a Monster Tech extended mount, there is nothing like the feel of that stick up between my legs LOL.

I use a #50 and #30 spring on each axis with my setup. A little bit of damper on the clutches.

[Grimnir]

@kissTheSky: This mount looks sweet: https://www.monster.tech/en/product/flight-stand/

 

Bit expensive, but will fit like a glove in my office. ?

[kissTheSky]

14 minutes ago, Grimnir said:

@kissTheSky: This mount looks sweet: https://www.monster.tech/en/product/flight-stand/

 

Bit expensive, but will fit like a glove in my office. ?

Somehow, I don’t think it’ll fit.  ?

 

What can I say, I’m a sim-whore. ?. VKB replaced the stick of X45 and it’s too close to the wall. I will be building a separate flight pit where all the boxes are right now, and then I’ll have the stick center mounted on the 200 mm extension then. Can’t wait ? 

 

 

[Grimnir]

6 hours ago, kissTheSky said:

Somehow, I don’t think it’ll fit.  ?

 

What can I say, I’m a sim-whore. ?. VKB replaced the stick of X45 and it’s too close to the wall. I will be building a separate flight pit where all the boxes are right now, and then I’ll have the stick center mounted on the 200 mm extension then. Can’t wait ?

 

Wow nice build. I would build something similar if I had a spare room. Think I have to buy a bigger house. ?

[kissTheSky]

1 hour ago, Grimnir said:

Wow nice build. I would build something similar if I had a spare room. Think I have to buy a bigger house. ?

Well, not a spare room per se, but the mechanical space (boiler, furnace, system fan, etc.). It gets loud-ish when the fan is running, but at least it’s a space for me to play and tinker on guitars. 

[LukeFF]

X45! Wow, that brings back memories. I had a crazy complex profile set up for that thing back in the day with the original IL2.

[kissTheSky]

1 hour ago, LukeFF said:

X45! Wow, that brings back memories. I had a crazy complex profile set up for that thing back in the day with the original IL2.

Lol. I could  never get the profile setups working on it. ?

[Grimnir]

On 7/1/2021 at 9:36 PM, kissTheSky said:

Well, not a spare room per se, but the mechanical space (boiler, furnace, system fan, etc.). It gets loud-ish when the fan is running, but at least it’s a space for me to play and tinker on guitars. 

So I finally got my Monstertech flight stand. It was a bit expensive but is really good quality, can’t believe how I managed to fly with the joystick on the table for so many years. ?