Started flying planes in mid-80's and got comfortable using the pinch method. Recently, I have ventured into heli's and found the thumbs on top to offer freer movement of sticks, so I have made the switch. The down-side has been sore thumbs, but being a hobbyist, I placed 1/4" grommets on the sticks. And man what a difference.

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Personally thumbs always..
most recently its best for me as I use the 2 sliders on the back of m f8g as idle raiser and engine kill... so it would be a hastle to use them if I was pinching..

I also switch between my 3 rates a LOT during a flight, even mid manouver sometimes...... and that I find best done with one finger all the time on the switch.. which is more comfortable and faster using thumb style....

But like many have said.. Its just a case of what you find "natural" and what works best for you. There is no right or wrong way... The same as I think everybody in my club has their rates switch in a different place... and they are all the right place, for them!

Maybe been posted... You should hear the heli pilots on some of the heli forums debate this...[sm=75_75.gif]

Different strokes for different folks. Do what is comfortable for you.

Me? I'm a thumb man.


Pete

Amazing results - after 253 votes, it is a very close 50/50 Thumbs vs. Pinch.