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Re: Is this indeed a Hs 129 pilot's grip stick?
Denes,
This type of grip, a KG 14, was commonly used on the Hs 129 and early Fw 190 aircraft. It may have also seen limited use on the Me 210/410 series.
For this example, the "V60" marking and W.-Nr. 0552 point to a Fw 190 (A3 maybe).
It's been said that pilots disliked the rather complicated side-lever approach for gun selection. The KG14 was replaced on latter Fw 190s by the more common KG 13 type. It could be that a dog-fight (Fw 190) placed more demands on a pilot than ground attack (Hs 129). I don't believe the KG14 was replaced on the Hs 129, although the KG 12 or 13 may have been substituted as required.
This example also has material removed from the top firing button. I was told that this was done to avoid binding due to the close fit between the button and the grip housing.
A KG 14 is relatively scarce among surviving German grips, and rarely seen for sale. This is a very nice one, and complete. It will bring a high price no doubt!
All the best,
Steve
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