I agree that if you are wanting to learn to fly the LT then a sim would be great for that. But if getting "something" in the air sooner, without breaking the bank is what's needed then the slow stick or "something" similar would work great.

The sim IS a good investment. I practically learned how tro fly on G2. I did however make a few "real world" mistakes that the sim can't prepare you for. A sim doesn't replace instruction. All in all I think it would be money well spent, and if I were making the choice between the slow stick, and one of the better sims available...I'd go with the sim. You can get on it anytime of day or nite, and crash with impunity.