LAW OF THE GUN

Jim Douglas check out two of the new-style pistol grip joysticks and chooses the top gun.

The Magnum, from Mastertronic is a designer joystick if ever there was one.

A black body, blue top and red shaft and fire button make it probably the least unpleasant looking joystick around.

Literally, magnum means 'big'. A fairly apt description. This is the most bulky joystick we've seen recently. Its fire-button is located towards the back and on a slopey bit and is designed to be thumb-driven.

The shaft can be located at the very top of the blue platform, and makes a very satisfying "click".

The main problem with the Magnum is that you'd expect to be able to slam away at it with gay abandon. The trouble is the grip is so big that you can't get a strong enough grip to be able to exert any force.

Magnum costs £12.50

MACHINES: All major home computers, C16 and Plus 4 and Sinclair Plus 2 needs adaptor.
MAKER: Mastertronic, 8-10 Paul Street, London
PRICE: £12.50

The Magnum, Mastertronics first foray into the world of joysticks, is another hand-held model. At least this time its ambidextrous design should present no problems to left-handed players.

As the name suggests, this joystick is gun-shaped, with the fire button falling under the thumb and the shaft on top.

It fits nicely in hand and a prolonged playing stint produces no really bad side-effects on the hand. Both fire button and shaft perform well, responding instantly to action.

The one drawback is that it doesn't feel too sturdy and you get the impression it may not be able to stand up to month after month of zapping.

It also comes with six foot of cable. Mastertronic claims this is more than with any other joystick. This, of course, enables you to stand or sit a long way from the computer screen. Which is fine if you have the eyesight of an eagle and can still see what's happening on screen.

Price: £12.50

The Magnum is the ideal joystick for younger gamesters and can easily be held steady by small hands. It looks rather like a gun, except that there is no barrel. The trigger is on a slant and the stick is placed on top just beyond the trigger. It is fully microswitched and responds well to sudden movements. The fire button is nice and large.

The Magnum is ideal for a whole host of games, ranging from arcade adventures to super fast shoot 'em ups. Mastertronic have now reduced the price of their magnum to compete against the Speed Kings price cuts.