joystick

hi everybody,i'm a newbie @ this,so if you can help me,great.
i was given FS 2002,a couple of years ago,, recently installed it,& am enjoying the heck out of it.its a wonderful experiance,keeps me @ the comp for hours.
anyway,using the keyboard wasnt cutting it,so i purchased a Saitek ST290PRO @ Wal-Mart for about $20.
it does ok,bit i have a heck of a time landing,the stick isn't really that touch sensitive.
can anyone recommend a good joystick,one thats more 'lifelike'??
also ,whats that clip thingy on the stalk?
i unscrewed it,& don't use it.
thanks.

not really

It depends on your budget. I would recommend the Logitech Extreme 3d Pro.
http://www.logitech.com/home

The Saitech X52 is very good but costs more.

The CH Products Flight Sim Yoke, Throttle Quadrant and pedals is my personal choice but not for the weak wallet.
http://www.chproducts.com/retail/y_fsyusb.html