Reproduction joysticks no good?

[WolfAmongWolves]

My original 2600 joysticks finally gave out after 20+ years, so I bought two of those new reproduction joysticks that look and feel like the originals. The first one broke after two weeks, the second one a week later. When I opened the case I found that those white plastic rings near the base had snapped. I contacted the seller, who was very nice about it and sent me two new ones. This time the joystick broke during the very first gaming session. I'm just a casual gamer; my sessions with the 2600 usually don't last longer than about 20 minutes, and I don't feel that I'm using excessive force.

 

I'm trying to find out if this is a general manufacturing flaw or just bad luck on my part. I know that there are several companies manufacturing these reproduction joysticks, so it may also be worth trying a different seller. Has anyone else had a similar experience? Any tips on where to find good reproduction joysticks (if they exist) would be appreciated.

[mkiker2089]

The original joystick design was flawed and when you cheapen it down then the quality really drops. I wouldn't use Atari style sticks if you paid me. That said there are options.

 

For original style this company rebuilds and in their opinion improves the original design. The cost is high but the quality is equally high http://best-electronics-ca.com/quickguide.htm

 

I would prefer the Epyx 500 if I wanted a stick http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?ff3=4&pub=5574883395&toolid=10001&campid=5336500554&customid=&mpre=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fitm%2FATARI-2600-7800-CONTROLLER-LOT-500XJ-EPYX-WORKING-%2F141028727293%3Fpt%3DUS_Video_Game_Controllers%26hash%3Ditem20d5f799fd

 

You can use a Sega Genesis controller. This is an off brand but I have one and it is very well made. http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?ff3=4&pub=5574883395&toolid=10001&campid=5336500554&customid=&mpre=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fitm%2FSega-Genesis-3-Button-Controller-Game-Control-Pad-New-%2F171056987603%3Fpt%3DUS_Other_Video_Game_Accessories%26hash%3Ditem27d3ca7dd3

 

this would work as well and it's new old stock Sega brand. It's too pricey for my blood though http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?ff3=4&pub=5574883395&toolid=10001&campid=5336500554&customid=&mpre=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fitm%2FNew-Sega-Master-System-Controller-Pad-SEGA-brand-Model-3020-WITHOUT-PACKAGING-%2F151050758014%3Fpt%3DUS_Video_Game_Controllers%26hash%3Ditem232b53a77e

[WolfAmongWolves]

Thanks, mkiker. I think I'll try the high quality reproduction in your first link. If it's as good as they say then that is exactly what I'm looking for. I've tried joypads before, but they just don't do it for me.

[AtariBrian]

Go with the gold rebuild kits from Best Electronics . An atari cx 40 never worked so well until i put one of these in .

[gorfcadet]

The Sega Genesis arcade sticks are nice for something that feels a little arcade-ish. That said, I tend to use my modded nes pads Ax converted for me. You might contact wolfpackmommy here and see if they have any done up. I know he is laid up right now, but he might have some already to go.

[RodLightning]

I have been using flashback joysticks on my original light sixer. I noticed their handles will unscrew from the base, unlike the originals. Other than that, I've found them to be satisfactory. I haven't opened one up yet to inspect the internal design. Apologies if this has been covered in another thread.

[pimpmaul69]

Go with the gold rebuild kits from Best Electronics . An atari cx 40 never worked so well until i put one of these in .

i went to their site the other day and they were gone. are they still around

 

edit: nm. it looks like their site is back up

Edited August 3, 2013 by pimpmaul69

[jaybird3rd]

Go with the gold rebuild kits from Best Electronics . An atari cx 40 never worked so well until i put one of these in .

Absolutely. I've bought lots of their rebuild kits and other replacement parts over the years, and the quality is outstanding.

[WolfAmongWolves]

I'll definitely go with the gold rebuild kit then. Thanks guys!

[Necron99]

I have a set of Tomahawk Joysticks, they are indestructible and pretty much the only controllers I ever hook up. I have boxes of controllers and while there's a few that are pretty good, the Tomahawks are definitely my favorite. unfortunately, I can't even find a place to buy another set.