I was just flying using my G2 simulator and realized that I was holding the stick for the ailerons and elevator with my thumb and index finger while I was just using my thumb on the throttle.
Then I remembered that at the field with my instructor (I have only flown 5 times) that I was just using my thumbs on the top of both sticks.
I think that is what he asked me to do but, it seems that I have better control of the plane if I use my thumb and index finger on the aileron/elevator.
So, which way is best? Or, is it what works best for you?
I don't want to get into bad habits on the sim and carry them to the field.

Also, is there any reason why the tops of the control sticks have to poke into your thumbs like that? Hard to believe there isn't a better way to keep control without stabbing your thumbs![:@]

There is no wrong way to control the sticks, which ever is the most comfortable to you is what you should do.

I could say that most pattern flyers do it this way or that but I have seen both.

SO I would suggest do what come naturally..

Just my $0.02 worth

Don//

Actually this is a highly discussed question. Most 3Ders use index and thumb for "more precise control" While most old school pilots use their thumbs. I use my thumbs because thats whats most comfortable for me. I say do what comes natural which seems to be index finger for AIL/ELEV. and thumb for rud/thro. Also on the thumb stabbing. That doesn't happen to me, maybe your nervous and your pushing hard on the sticks without knowing it Although I doubt you would be nervous on a sim.

Low-n-Slow

For me, it depends on the type of flying I'm doing. Usually, if I'm just cruising around with a trainer or glider, I use my thumbs(and sometimes not even on the sticks![X(] ), If I'm flying 3D, or warbird, or something I'm more "concerned" about, I end up using index&thumb.

It really is up to your personal preference, just like holding a pencil.

BTW, If your pressing down with your thumbs so hard that it bothers you or hurts your thumbs, then lighten up and relax. It only takes small movements to get your plane going where you want it to.

I have been playing with these things since '71, that may make me an old schooler. I have always flown with index finger and thumb. Allows more control and if you get your hands on an airplane that is way out of trim you can set a new "center" on the sticks and save the airplane. Happened many time in the old days when I used to test fly other guys planes.

I recommend this way but you should go with what feels right.

Hank

I fly with index finger and thumb... it was the way I was taught by one of the best pilots in the area at the time. I tired to use just my thumbs and he corrected me for a while until it felt natural. Now I feel it gives quite a bit more control and seems the best way for me. I've actually had other guys come up to me and tell me I should only be using my thumbs, (mostly the old skoolers) and I tell them that's the way I was taught and like best. But I would agree to do whatever your more comfortable with...

I have a tremor, so using the thumbs is the only way I can do it without shaking like a leaf. Using the thumbs and gripping the TX tightly helps control the shakes.
Glen

I use finger and thumb on both sticks, but only beacause I feel most comfortable that way. There are a number of world class pilots that fly thumbs only, just as there are world class pilots using fingers and thumbs. So it's really up to you.
Dennis-

lmaccarty, I do it like you too

Same here, thumb and index finger on rt. stick, usually thumb only on lt. stick unless I'm on approach, then two fingers. Have heard arguments both ways, but have to agree whatever works for you, go for it.

I will have to say, one of the more impressive crashes I've seen came from just "thumbing" the stick. Fellow at the field was flying his 1/5 SE-5 inverted in a circle about 25 feet up, said later it took almost full down elevator to keep it level, and his thumb slipped off the stick. It was in the ground before he knew what happened. Said he had some fuel residue on his fingers, all his fault , all he could do was laugh. Took it pretty well, was a very nicely detailed plane.