The Russkit pistol grip controller triumphed over plunger style controllers that were the "go-to" format in the early days of commercial slot racing. Think MRRC, Cox, Towerstat, and many others
As the years passed it evolved and became more of a racers controller with micro-switches, heat sinks, and any variety of ohm's available as motor became "hotter." Early high performance designs from John Gorski and Bob Cotton and others.
Ken MacDowell of Parma International marketed and acquired the line after Jim Russel moved on to other things. He commercialized it from the standpoint of "econo" versions were made available as well as microswitch kits for people to upgrade their controllers for the high end. They eventually evolved to the Turbo line of controllers which is still with us.
The pistol grip controller migrated to R/C racing also. Aurora had a smaller version for use with their latter HO sets. Difalco and others over the years continued to use the format and it is still the "weapon of choice" for the newbie and more experienced racer.
My question is how much has it evolved in your pit box and does anyone know who designed the original.
