Recently I have re-ignited my love of flight simulation as an inexpensive training tool as well as being a fun activity on a rainy weekend.
As I already have my PPL pilots license I wanted my flight simulation experience to match as best as possible the “feel” of actual flying.
I purchased some flight control hardware to up the realism when flying.
I have owned the Cirrus Mooney aircraft style yoke for a number of years. It is of solid aluminum construction and also has mechanical / spring mechanisms that provide a smooth and realistic feel.

The Cirrus rudder pedals are also of sturdy construction and provide a realistic feel including toe breaks.

My recent purchases are the general simulation panel & multi-radio from Open Cockpits.
I can now fly without touching the mouse or keyboard 95% of the time. This makes my set-up a serious training tool to practice flight procedures and related flight skills.

I trained for my PPL with the Ardmore Flying School. I completed my training part time while working and obtained my license in 1997.
The picture above is of me and my flight instructor in front of a Piper PA-38 (Tomahawk) flight trainer. I completed all my flight training on this aircraft.
Once I got my license I quickly transitioned to the four seat Cessna 172. Initially I flew the older models then as the school purchased the new 172 I was able to fly the modern equivalent.
When we moved to Tampa Florida in 2000 I took the opportunity to become current again and completed a number of hours training with an instructor who flew commercial jets. I achieved my goal of flying solo again.