Product Description

Solidly constructed 3-axis pedals maximize flight sim realism by enabling foot control of the rudder function. Silent, smooth action for optimum control and precision. Features: Self-centering pedals with adjustable damping, Foot rests adjust to fit all sizes. Precise rudder and braking control. Tension adjustment. High quality, part metal construction. Advanced SST Programming. Connectivity: USB 2.0 System requirements: Win 2000, XP, XP64 Availability: July 2006

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #3256 in Consumer Electronics
• Brand: Saitek
• Model: PZ35
• Platforms: Windows Vista, Windows XP
• Dimensions: 7.00" h x 16.50" w x 16.00" l, 6.50 pounds

Features

• Realistic aircraft rudder control
• Integrated Toe Brake control
• Adjustable Tension
• Solid non-slip base
• USB connect

From the manufacturer
The Saitek PZ35 Pro Flight Rudder Pedals are the latest addition to the company’s line of market-leading flight simulation products. Pro Flight Rudder Pedals are solidly constructed and feature three axis pedals which maximize flight simulator realism by enabling foot control of the rudder function. Paired with a Saitek X52 Flight Stick and Throttle, the Pro Flight Rudder Pedals provide the additional sensitivity and control accuracy for an almost real flight sim experience.

The Pro Flight Rudder Pedals also include the following features:

• Self-centering pedals with adjustable damping
• Adjustable foot rests to fit all sizes, with non-slip materials
• Fully adjustable rudder control to suit the gamer’s preferences
• Tension adjustment to vary resistance to suit flying style
• Advanced SST Programming
• Toe brakes

Customer Reviews

Nice but could be a Bit Sturdier
As someone new to flight simulators, these were the first rudder pedals I have ever used. My general impression is that they work well but their flimsy construction is disconcerting. As I haven't ever used CH pedals, it is difficult to assess what would be considered sturdy for a consumer product like this. However, the Saitek pedals feel as if they would be damaged by putting any amount of weight on the pedal surface. Not only is the plastic rather thin but the whole apparatus is extremely light. Saitek should have used some inexpensive ballast to rectify the latter problem.

Unfortunately, the light weight means they are not stable when used straight out of the box. With several through holes, the designers are probably suggesting the user mount the base to a heavier object. To use them on carpet, I took a different approach. In each of the eight holes, I mounted a set screw with a flat machined end. These were adjusted with a nut and large washer (for weight distribution) to allow a 3/8" elevation. The screws will penetrate the pile and resist any forward movement. To increase the effect, I attached eight, one pound lead ingots with double-sided tape to the base. This arrangement provides a very stable platform.

In my ten hours of Flight Simulator X, I haven't found any problems with pedals. However, I did observe some minor flutter on occasion when using the Saitek diagnostic software. It generally goes away after some movement.

Despite concerns over the construction, the pedals have some nice features. There is an adjustable tension knob in the center of the pedals. In addition, the pedal surface is adjustable for different shoe sizes.

In general, the Saitek Pro Flight Rudder pedals work well and look nice. It would just be more comforting if Saitek used a few more millimeters of plastic on the pedals and base.


Pros
Accuracy
Easy to setup
Features (tension knob and adjustable pedal surface)


Cons
Flimsy
Some flutter
Too light

So, this is how a good one works!
I won a set of these at the International Flight Sim Convention in Denver this summer. They beat my CH USB Pro pedals hands down. These don't over draw the power on my USB hub like the CH did. I highly recommend them.

Great, but use extreme care.
After learning the "hard" way, the Rudder Pedals work Great! First (and very importantly) do NOT try to assign any functions to the pedals using your feet! After plugging in the USB connection put them on a flat surface and use your hands when moving the pedals to assign the right and left "Differential Brake" functions, then again using your hands, assign the "Rudder Axis" function.
Secondly, do not get overly exuburent when imputing the right or left "Rudder", if you hit the stops "firmly" the pedals will LOCK-UP! You will then have to remove 20 screws, and carefully re-align the pedals so they "unlock", then have to reinstall the 20 screws! Trust me, I've done it three times (greatly increasing my "expletive deleted" vocabulary in the process!) In spite of the above, they work well. I am a retired corporate pilot and use my flight sim to practice instrument procedures.