Barlow, best known for his creation of the Knobster, set up the website freesimstuff.com in 2021 with the intention of creating what he refers to as a ‘sharing community’ for 3D printing files and more.

Presently, the website features a wide range of 3D printing files (.stl) for the Honeycomb Bravo throttle quadrant, and a few for the Saitek offering. These include (but are not limited to) ‘chunky’ GA throttle handles, multiple position flap gates for airliner operations, and both a cradle and detent modification for the Saitek Throttle. It is important to note that at the time of writing, the majority of modifications available are for the Honeycomb Bravo.

On a side note, those who use Air Manager can also freely download high quality panels for the Zibo 737.

Visitors of the site are only required to read the terms and conditions prior to being able to download the files; there is no formal login system. Individuals who wish to contribute files to the site can do so by contacting the email address listed on the front page.

1. A frame from a video demonstrating the use of a printable flap gate used in conjunction with a spring-loaded catch mechanism. Both can be downloaded from the website free of charge. The spring is sourced from an over-the-counter ballpoint pen. Additionally, labeling files for those in possession of a ‘Brother P-touch Label maker’ can also be downloaded for the flap gates for free.

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2. An example of the some of the files available for the Honeycomb Bravo throttle quadrant. The website states that all files are suitable for printing  in PLA, PETG and ABS plastics.

3. Some of the modification files available for the Saitek Throttle Quadrant

4. Added bonus: Air Manager panels for the Zibo. These are compatible with touchscreen devices for those wishing to build a home-cockpit.

For those who do not have access to a 3D printer, there is a page providing the contact details of some of the available 3D printing/labeling partners of the site. From experience, the prices offered are very modest and the quality is high. The current countries covered are the US,UK, Australia and New Zealand. Barlow states that should you wish to list your services, you can do so on his website free of charge.

As to be expected, there are an abundance of vendors not on the list who have exploited Russ’ generosity and are selling his models at high markups whilst not providing him due credit.  

6. There are an abundance of listings which use the freely available files without giving credit to their original author. Prices are also typically higher than those offered by the vendors listed on the freesimstuff website.

7. Another example of such a listing. In this case, the decals, flap gate and latch mechanism have been used.

Whilst all files on the freesimstuff website are free to access, users can donate to Russ’ ‘beer fund’ should they wish to do so.