The only thing a simulator is really good for is practicing the controls. Left right up down. taxiing.

A simulator does not give you the feel of the air on your face when the wind changes. The gust over the runway on final. Full sense of that airplane in the sky. It does not teach you how to start an engine safely. how to adjust controls. balance the airplane. I picked up a simulator for dirt cheap two years ago because I wanted to get the feel of ducted fans and turbines. I seldom use it now. Spool ups, wind downs etc because they delay throttle response for spool up time to build thrust.

I never recommend someone to buy a simulator. My students when I teach we fly as much as schedules and weather conditions allow. I want them out at the field with me so I can teach them proper technique so they can safely operate that airplane without flying over our heads, behind us. A simulator will let you go anywhere and that is not always a good thing. Then they come out to the field and the plane flies them not the other way. If they are not taught how to fly a circuit they could possibly be a hazard to themselves and others. Set up proper approaches in different light and wind conditions. A simulator does not teach field safety.

To me the nay sayers refuse to take the time and energy to go look at alternatives for buying R/C stuff. They go to the LHS pay full price then ***** because that is what they want to do. It is easier to piss and moan than get out there and look. They are just mad because they did not know that when they started. I seldom pay retail anymore for anything I buy I know where to look and I am not afraid to do so.

It is completely possible to look around and get decent flyable equipment for pennies on the dollar. The deals are there if you take a few minutes to look.

Two weeks ago I picked up a CMP 120 Corsair, with brand new ASP 120 engine, robart retracts, Heavy duty dubro motor mount. everything new in the box or package for under $300.00. had not been assembled. I Know of at least three trainers right now in my area I could go buy for well under $155.00 some have everything even fuel. The deals are there. Just go look.