In this video review, Nuire Veral discusses the new AH64 Collective grip by Virpil, emphasizing its importance for optimal helicopter flying. He highlights the imbalance issue and the introduction of Virpil’s new “Collective Counterbalance Kit” as an effective solution, recommending it for users who already have a Virpil Collective grip.
In this video, the YouTuber Nuire Veral reviews a pre-production version of the new AH64 Collective grip by Virpil. He highlights the importance of having the correct grip when flying an AH64 helicopter. Veral also mentions that Virpil is working on a def profile that will preload all the necessary functions and macros for optimal performance. This grip offers features like arming and releasing with short and long presses, toggle on/off for the searchlight, and easy stowing. Veral emphasizes the value of viewer feedback for providing the most current information.
The Veral Collective grip comes in two types, one with and one without the turbine throttle. Both versions include friction or drag clutches for tuning the feel of the grip. However, users have noticed that there is an imbalance issue, making the grip front heavy. To prevent the grip from falling, options include holding it, applying excessive friction (which ruins the feel), or adding washers from AliExpress. To address this, Virpil has introduced a counterbalance, which is compact and adjustable. It is installed between the mount and the collective, with longer bolts provided. The counterbalance allows users to preload the spring using an Allen key to achieve the perfect equilibrium, requiring only minimal friction to limit drift.
After using the counterbalance for several hours, Veral commends its simplicity, ease of installation, and effectiveness. He recommends it as a useful solution for those who already have a Virpil Collective grip. He also mentions that MonsterTech, the manufacturer of the Veral Mount, has acknowledged the issue of locking the bolt hole for attaching the spring and is working on a solution. Lastly, Veral mentions that if he gets the opportunity, he plans to do a preview video of MonsterTech’s solution. He concludes by reminding viewers that the pre-production version shown may differ from the final product and encourages them to stay tuned for more updates.