Original: $369.00
-65%$369.00
$129.15The Story
VIRPIL Helicopter Collective — Ka-50 Black Shark
VPC SharKa-50 Collective Grip
Ka-50 Black Shark Collective. Built for DCS.
Inspired by the collective controls of the legendary Ka-50 "Black Shark" helicopter: a metal handle with rubberised grip, 2× 8-way hats, 3× 3-way toggles and push buttons. VIRPIL's first collective grip, built to put an authentic, tactile Ka-50 collective experience in your hands for DCS World and beyond. Mounts on your VIRPIL collective or flightstick base.
Official Australian and New Zealand VIRPIL Distributor
Official Australian and New Zealand VIRPIL DistributorWhy SharKa-50 Collective Grip
Ka-50 Black Shark authenticity. Built for DCS World helicopter pilots.
Ka-50 Black Shark inspired design
Inspired by the collective controls of the venerable Ka-50 "Black Shark" helicopter. VIRPIL's first collective grip, purpose-built to put the feel of a real Ka-50 in your hands for DCS World and beyond.
2× 8-way hat switches
Two 8-way hats with push for sensor and systems management, plus a 2-way switch with push, covering the key directional inputs of the real Ka-50 collective without lifting your hand.
Metal handle with rubberised grip
Enhanced PU plastic construction with a metal handle and rubberised grip surface. The moment you hold it you can feel the quality: firm, tactile and purpose-built for long sim sessions.
3× 3-way toggles
Three independent 3-way ON-OFF-ON toggle switches for systems management: weapon modes, autopilot functions, engine systems and more. Directly inspired by the real Ka-50 collective control layout.
Wide base compatibility
Compatible with the VPC Rotor TCS, TCS Plus, WarBRD and MongoosT-50 bases, plus Thrustmaster Warthog and Cougar bases with limited functionality. The most versatile mounting options of any collective grip.
Plug-and-play, no drivers needed
Connects via your base as a standard USB HID device, no drivers needed. Works out of the box with DCS World, MSFS 2024, X-Plane 12 and any USB-compatible sim. Advanced config via the free VPC Configuration Suite.
Base compatibility
Which bases does the SharKa-50 Collective Grip work with?
The SharKa-50 is a grip-only product compatible with a wide range of VIRPIL bases, both collective and flightstick, as well as Thrustmaster bases with limited functionality.
VPC Rotor TCS Base
✓ Compatible
VIRPIL's dedicated helicopter collective base. All-metal adjustable axis mechanism, pre-installed counter-balance kit, adjustable clutch, and 3-position travel range limiter. The ideal entry point for a realistic helicopter collective setup.
View Rotor TCS →
VPC Rotor TCS Plus Base
✓ Compatible — Recommended base
VIRPIL's premium helicopter collective base. Everything in the TCS, plus a twist throttle correction axis with engine idle button and switch restrictors, for the most immersive and realistic helicopter collective experience available.
View Rotor TCS Plus →Technical specifications
VPC SharKa-50 Collective Grip — full spec sheet
* Thrustmaster base compatibility has limited functionality. Refer to VIRPIL documentation.
What's included
In the box
- VPC SharKa-50 Collective Grip
- Grip-to-base connector cable
- Quick start guide
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Does the SharKa-50 Collective Grip include a base?
No, it's a grip only. You need a compatible base such as the VPC Rotor TCS Collective, VPC Rotor TCS Plus Collective, VPC WarBRD, or VPC MongoosT-50 to use it. Call us on 0488 385 870 and we can help you choose the right base for your helicopter sim setup.
Which base should I use with the SharKa-50?
The VPC Rotor TCS or TCS Plus Collective bases give the most authentic helicopter experience. The SharKa-50 also works with WarBRD and MongoosT-50 flightstick bases if you want to use it as an alternative grip in a HOTAS setup.
What sims is the SharKa-50 best suited for?
The SharKa-50 is designed with the DCS World Ka-50 Black Shark module in mind, but works great with all DCS helicopter modules, MSFS 2024 helicopter flying, and X-Plane 12. It works as a standard USB HID device with any sim.
Can the 8-way hats be configured as 4-way hats?
Yes, the 8-way hat switches can be configured as 4-way hats using the free VPC Configuration Suite. Useful for sims where 8-way inputs may cause binding conflicts.
Does it work with Thrustmaster bases?
Yes, with limitations. The SharKa-50 is compatible with Thrustmaster Warthog and Cougar bases, but some functionality may be missing or limited. For full functionality, a native VIRPIL base is recommended.
Do I need special software to use this grip?
No, it works out of the box as a standard USB HID device without any software. For advanced configuration such as 8-way to 4-way hat conversion, button mapping and shift states, the free VPC Configuration Suite is available from the VIRPIL support portal.
What warranty and returns cover the SharKa-50 Collective Grip?
It's backed by a 2-year VIRPIL manufacturer warranty, handled locally by Player1 Sim Gear as the official Australian distributor, so there are no international returns for warranty work. You also get a 14-day change-of-mind return: item in original, unused condition, refund less return shipping and a 5% handling fee. Full Australian Consumer Law protection applies. Call 0488 385 870 with any questions.
Do you ship to all of Australia? How long does delivery take?
Yes, we ship Australia-wide from our Queensland warehouse. We aim to dispatch same day or within 1–2 business days. Delivery typically takes 2–8 business days depending on location. All orders are fully trackable and insured. Call 0488 385 870 for current stock and express options.
Why buy from Player1 Sim Gear rather than directly from VIRPIL overseas?
Player1 Sim Gear is the official VIRPIL distributor for Australia and New Zealand. Buying locally means full Australian Consumer Law protection, a valid Australian GST tax invoice, warranty handled locally (no international shipping for repairs), Australian stock, and a team you can call on 0488 385 870 who actually flies sims like DCS and MSFS on this gear.
What support do you offer after purchase?
We offer pre-sale advice on base and grip combinations, setup support after delivery including VPC Configuration Suite help, and local warranty handling. Our team flies DCS World helicopter modules regularly. Call 0488 385 870 or visit our support page.
Build the full experience
Complete your helicopter sim cockpit
The SharKa-50 Collective Grip is the perfect start. Pair it with a Rotor TCS collective base, flight controls, and a cockpit for the complete helicopter simpit experience.
Not sure which VIRPIL setup is right for you?
Our team flies DCS World helicopter modules with VIRPIL Controls gear. We can help you build the right Ka-50 or helicopter sim setup for your cockpit and budget.
Details & Craftsmanship
Every detail has been carefully considered to bring you the perfect product.
Details & Craftsmanship
Every detail has been carefully considered to bring you the perfect product.
Details & Craftsmanship
Every detail has been carefully considered to bring you the perfect product.
Details & Craftsmanship
Every detail has been carefully considered to bring you the perfect product.
Details & Craftsmanship
Every detail has been carefully considered to bring you the perfect product.
Details & Craftsmanship
Every detail has been carefully considered to bring you the perfect product.
Description
VIRPIL Helicopter Collective — Ka-50 Black Shark
VPC SharKa-50 Collective Grip
Ka-50 Black Shark Collective. Built for DCS.
Inspired by the collective controls of the legendary Ka-50 "Black Shark" helicopter: a metal handle with rubberised grip, 2× 8-way hats, 3× 3-way toggles and push buttons. VIRPIL's first collective grip, built to put an authentic, tactile Ka-50 collective experience in your hands for DCS World and beyond. Mounts on your VIRPIL collective or flightstick base.
Official Australian and New Zealand VIRPIL Distributor
Why SharKa-50 Collective Grip
Ka-50 Black Shark authenticity. Built for DCS World helicopter pilots.
Ka-50 Black Shark inspired design
Inspired by the collective controls of the venerable Ka-50 "Black Shark" helicopter. VIRPIL's first collective grip, purpose-built to put the feel of a real Ka-50 in your hands for DCS World and beyond.
2× 8-way hat switches
Two 8-way hats with push for sensor and systems management, plus a 2-way switch with push, covering the key directional inputs of the real Ka-50 collective without lifting your hand.
Metal handle with rubberised grip
Enhanced PU plastic construction with a metal handle and rubberised grip surface. The moment you hold it you can feel the quality: firm, tactile and purpose-built for long sim sessions.
3× 3-way toggles
Three independent 3-way ON-OFF-ON toggle switches for systems management: weapon modes, autopilot functions, engine systems and more. Directly inspired by the real Ka-50 collective control layout.
Wide base compatibility
Compatible with the VPC Rotor TCS, TCS Plus, WarBRD and MongoosT-50 bases, plus Thrustmaster Warthog and Cougar bases with limited functionality. The most versatile mounting options of any collective grip.
Plug-and-play, no drivers needed
Connects via your base as a standard USB HID device, no drivers needed. Works out of the box with DCS World, MSFS 2024, X-Plane 12 and any USB-compatible sim. Advanced config via the free VPC Configuration Suite.
Base compatibility
Which bases does the SharKa-50 Collective Grip work with?
The SharKa-50 is a grip-only product compatible with a wide range of VIRPIL bases, both collective and flightstick, as well as Thrustmaster bases with limited functionality.
VPC Rotor TCS Base
✓ Compatible
VIRPIL's dedicated helicopter collective base. All-metal adjustable axis mechanism, pre-installed counter-balance kit, adjustable clutch, and 3-position travel range limiter. The ideal entry point for a realistic helicopter collective setup.
View Rotor TCS →VPC Rotor TCS Plus Base
✓ Compatible — Recommended base
VIRPIL's premium helicopter collective base. Everything in the TCS, plus a twist throttle correction axis with engine idle button and switch restrictors, for the most immersive and realistic helicopter collective experience available.
View Rotor TCS Plus →Technical specifications
VPC SharKa-50 Collective Grip — full spec sheet
* Thrustmaster base compatibility has limited functionality. Refer to VIRPIL documentation.
What's included
In the box
- VPC SharKa-50 Collective Grip
- Grip-to-base connector cable
- Quick start guide
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Does the SharKa-50 Collective Grip include a base?
No, it's a grip only. You need a compatible base such as the VPC Rotor TCS Collective, VPC Rotor TCS Plus Collective, VPC WarBRD, or VPC MongoosT-50 to use it. Call us on 0488 385 870 and we can help you choose the right base for your helicopter sim setup.
Which base should I use with the SharKa-50?
The VPC Rotor TCS or TCS Plus Collective bases give the most authentic helicopter experience. The SharKa-50 also works with WarBRD and MongoosT-50 flightstick bases if you want to use it as an alternative grip in a HOTAS setup.
What sims is the SharKa-50 best suited for?
The SharKa-50 is designed with the DCS World Ka-50 Black Shark module in mind, but works great with all DCS helicopter modules, MSFS 2024 helicopter flying, and X-Plane 12. It works as a standard USB HID device with any sim.
Can the 8-way hats be configured as 4-way hats?
Yes, the 8-way hat switches can be configured as 4-way hats using the free VPC Configuration Suite. Useful for sims where 8-way inputs may cause binding conflicts.
Does it work with Thrustmaster bases?
Yes, with limitations. The SharKa-50 is compatible with Thrustmaster Warthog and Cougar bases, but some functionality may be missing or limited. For full functionality, a native VIRPIL base is recommended.
Do I need special software to use this grip?
No, it works out of the box as a standard USB HID device without any software. For advanced configuration such as 8-way to 4-way hat conversion, button mapping and shift states, the free VPC Configuration Suite is available from the VIRPIL support portal.
What warranty and returns cover the SharKa-50 Collective Grip?
It's backed by a 2-year VIRPIL manufacturer warranty, handled locally by Player1 Sim Gear as the official Australian distributor, so there are no international returns for warranty work. You also get a 14-day change-of-mind return: item in original, unused condition, refund less return shipping and a 5% handling fee. Full Australian Consumer Law protection applies. Call 0488 385 870 with any questions.
Do you ship to all of Australia? How long does delivery take?
Yes, we ship Australia-wide from our Queensland warehouse. We aim to dispatch same day or within 1–2 business days. Delivery typically takes 2–8 business days depending on location. All orders are fully trackable and insured. Call 0488 385 870 for current stock and express options.
Why buy from Player1 Sim Gear rather than directly from VIRPIL overseas?
Player1 Sim Gear is the official VIRPIL distributor for Australia and New Zealand. Buying locally means full Australian Consumer Law protection, a valid Australian GST tax invoice, warranty handled locally (no international shipping for repairs), Australian stock, and a team you can call on 0488 385 870 who actually flies sims like DCS and MSFS on this gear.
What support do you offer after purchase?
We offer pre-sale advice on base and grip combinations, setup support after delivery including VPC Configuration Suite help, and local warranty handling. Our team flies DCS World helicopter modules regularly. Call 0488 385 870 or visit our support page.
Build the full experience
Complete your helicopter sim cockpit
The SharKa-50 Collective Grip is the perfect start. Pair it with a Rotor TCS collective base, flight controls, and a cockpit for the complete helicopter simpit experience.
Not sure which VIRPIL setup is right for you?
Our team flies DCS World helicopter modules with VIRPIL Controls gear. We can help you build the right Ka-50 or helicopter sim setup for your cockpit and budget.
