DK-2 KATANA

The Katana is a sky slicing evolution of desktop based flight simulation.  While likely odd looking to some, the Katana blends both form follows function design artistry with a fully featured “Desk Koncept” for advanced flight simulation.

The DK-2, much like it’s smaller sibling the DK-1, offers total immersion and incredible realism without taking up a lot of floor space.  The core differences are the extended height of the DK-2 allows for an additional storage shelf that can house large 12″ books or binders and the DK-2 offers two internal width variations of 38″ and the standard 48″ width. The optional smaller width gives a more “form fitting” experience for fighter jet emulation while the standard width, which matches the DK-1 Kotori, allows for the same style of panel mounted avionics. The DK-1, DK-2, and DK-X panels are in fact all cross-compatible.

And just like it’s shorter sibling, the DK-2 allows for monitors of 22″ up to 32″ for the main desktop panel display.  Other features carried over as shown include the same deck mounted variations for yoke, mouse, keyboard, and side mounted “HOTAS” styled throttle / joystick deck combinations for flying fighter jets.   Therefore the DK-2 is packed with a ton of features and flexibility.

In designing the DK-2 Katana we wanted a system that could do everything.  With using any desk based “single seat simulator” you are already somewhat emulating the basic size, style, and general layout of a military fighter jet and so we wanted to accent that but we also wanted the DK-2 to able to fly any other aircraft as well.  Because of this we decided to offer the two widths, a standard 48″ width, and a reduced 38″ width.  Using the larger standard width with a main display of up to 32″ still allows for any common panel mounted equipment from any number of retailers as well the inclusion of an iPad dock for use as your modern EFB (Electronic Flight Bag).  The reduced width can also allow for a 32″ display but would require that avionics be mounted flat on side decks located on each side of the pilots arms, just like how they exist in any fighter jet.

Regardless, using a 22″ up to a 32″ display for primary flight instrumentation will allow for all 2D virtual panel gauges to be displayed in true 1:1 scale, or in some cases can display the entire panel in 1:1 scale as would be for a small general aviation Cessna or a big fighter jet such as an F-14.  Any large display such as 32″  can also allow for any airliner “captains side” panel and center EICAS console to render in a near true 1:1 scale.  As was purposefully designed, the DK-2 brings near true to life realism for any aircraft be that of general aviation, airliners, or even fighter jets!

Another big factor in re-designing the DK series was a desire to allow you to still enjoy any of the numerous 3D “virtual cockpit” sets that are today’s norm from well respected sim aircraft designers. The use of larger LCD screens as shown will also greatly help you to see all the gauges in any virtual “3D cockpit” in much greater detail just as it will with any 2D panel experience.  As you can see in the images, using a large 27″ (on Saitek model) or 32″ display (on Goflight model) will easily provide a “best of both worlds” experience for those simmers who equally love 2D panel sets as much as 3D virtual cockpits.  A new exterior view can also be created to span across the upper three displays. All of these configuring options and how to do so are greatly detailed in the SimSamurai UGTAFS.

By including these new options for larger displays, SimSamurai has  purposefully future-proofed our desk based solutions for the latest in UHD (Ultra HD) display technology.  Whether using a 27″, 32″ or 40″  UHD monitor for the instrument panel, as well any 24″ up to 32″ for the upper shelf exterior view displays, the DK-1 / DK-2 series is ready for ultra-high definition!  

Lastly, the upper deck and two enlarged side wall “window” cutouts now allow for 32” displays (previously 27″) and allow for installation of two optional platform extensions which will allow for up to five 32″ displays in total for full 180 degree visual immersion. These same platform extensions can also be integrated into the smaller DK-1 design as well. 

While some people have found the DK series to be a little odd looking, their modern and efficient forms serve the one key goal of providing you with an incredibly immersive sim environment and each one does so with a small footprint and low cost to build or purchase.  No other flight sim cockpit manufacturer has ever offered this type of flexibility nor as many configuration options and if they ever have, it’s always at twice the cost.

Other core features includes a height adjustable main deck with three settings to accommodate 40″ displays (lowest setting) up to 22″ displays (highest setting).  Also included in the DIY designs or quick build kits are the newly adjustable Yoke Support Armature (YSA) and the two ergonomic height adjustable Side Control Decks (SCDs) for fighter jet styled “HOTAS” (Hands on Throttle and Stick) controls.  Also included is an optional Keyboard and Mouse Support Deck assembly for those who wish to use the side decks for fighter jet controls. This deck can also be placed on top of a centrally mounted Saitek yoke if desired.

Last but not least, the new DK-2 Katana DIY package includes several added configuring options;  #1 – if desired, the upper half of the sim with the storage shelving can be fully eliminated or; #2 we included design options for reinforcement bracing which would allow for full removal of the two front thin “window stanchions” which aid in supporting the upper half of the DK-2.   This is an added option for those who DO want to retain the upper storage shelving features but DO NOT like the slight visual interference of the two support stanchions.  And while we greatly prefer them, as we feel they do a great job of simulating the feel of aircraft window stanchions and add to the feeling of depth perception,  we still provide optional details of their removal.

As you can see, the DK-2 Katana has an extensive list of amazing features that any flight simmer is sure to love.  If you are looking to save space but want to enjoy absolutely everything that flight simulation has to offer, the DK-2 is a perfect choice for slicing up the sky!


FEATURES & SPECIFICATIONS

  • Designed to fit in any room, and well suited for home, dorm, school, or office.
  • Well suited for classroom settings where several units can be networked together.
  • Ergonomic design based on real aircraft cockpit panel dimensions including fighters, trainers, and airliners.
  • Has ability to use up to 6 displays (1 large LCD for flight instruments and up to 5 for panoramic exterior views).
  • External view is designed for 3 to 5 displays (22″ up to 32″ via Matrox, Eyefinity, or Nvidia multi-view systems).
  • Two upper storage shelves can house all software, manuals, large binders or can allow for installing an overhead LCD panel or any realistic airliner overhead control panel equipment.
  • Can house instrument panels / equipment from any other retailers.
  • Available panel designs for GoFlight and Saitek avionics.
  • Can house up to a 40″ UHD main display (27″-32″ recommended)
  • Form follows function design which maximizes materials use.
  • Can be built using standard home construction tools.
  • Easy to relocate anywhere in any home or office.
  • Can be easily assembled / disassembled.
  • Can be fully built in just two weekends.
  • Costs $170 or less in building materials.
  • includes bracing for added shelf support.
  • Key bracket locations for securing to a wall.
  • Adjustable height features of main desk deck.
  • Adjustable / Removable central flight yoke deck.
  • Adjustable / Removable Keyboard tray assembly.
  • Adjustable  / Removable HOTAS flight control decks.
  • Completely modular and ergonomic design features.
  • Completely immersive flight sim training environment.
  • Requires floor space of ~40″ depth x 80″ width (if using 32″ displays for exterior visuals)

PURCHASE COSTS:

DK-2 DIY Plans Set              $26.00 USD

DK-2 Bare Bones Kit           $780.00 USD 

DK-2 Completed RTA Kit     $1,440.00 USD

DK-2 KATANA

If you have a question not answered on this page, please send it to:

simsamurai@gmail.com

If you are having trouble viewing images please refresh your browser!

DK-2 PURCHASE OPTIONS

As of July 1st 2018 SimSamurai migrated to a full digital sales platform for our DIY Cockpit Plan Sets with added options for printing/shipping. We also continue to offer our normal in house fabrication services for BareBones and RTA kit cockpit enclosures and instrument panels. 

In addition to this we now offer digital design cut files for our instrument panels so that you can attempt to cut them yourself, or can take the file to a local fabricator of your choice (laser or waterjet). This allows customers to save even more money over our in house costs of fabrication, labor, and shipping.  Included with each panel cut file is PDF instructions for mounting hardware and final finishing options for both the panel and glare-shield.  For a small added fee we can also custom modify the panel to better suit the needs of your current equipment and flight controls. Please see the updated Instrument Panel page for more details.

Lastly, with each digital product purchase you hereby agree to our Non-Commercial Single Use User Licensing Agreement (NCSUULA) which is detailed on the SHOP page.

Please see the product pricing on this page and or the Pricing Legends on the Purchase Details  or SHOP page. 

For further inquiry please email us at simsamurai@gmail.com


DK-2 Katana DIY Cockpit Blueprints Pack    $ 26.00 USD

  • Includes highly detailed plan and elevation drawings
  • Includes all measurements, cut patterns, etc.
  • Includes step-by-step builder manual
  • Includes free 33 page carpentry guide you can grab HERE
  • Includes Imperial Standard to Metric Conversions
  • Includes photo slideshow links to aid in the DIY process
  • Full builder support by phone & email
  • DIY Digital Builder Pack $26.00
  • Printed and Shipped Plans add $20.00
  • Add the DK Instrument Panel digital design file for just $15 more. Add customized options for $12 more.

To purchase the DK-2 DIY Digital Builder Pack please add it to your cart below. If you wish to have your plans printed and shipped please go to the SHOP page and add it to your order.



PRO PILOT KIT PURCHASING OPTIONS

Aside from purchasing the DIY Bluprints pack (see above) SimSamurai also offers Ready To Assemble kit cockpits. 

All RTA kits are offered in two core options; a Bare Bones Kit or RTA Complete Kit.

You can learn more by visiting the SIM FLIGHT SYSTEMS page.


THE DK-2 Bare Bones Kit   $ 780.00 USD

The Bare Bones DK-2 Katana package takes all your cutting out of the equation. It will come to you with all material and hardware ready to assemble but will require that you paint it yourself prior to assembly. The included DIY manual will give you plenty of help on how to paint your DK-2 Katana.  The Bare Bones kit, just like the Completed and Painted RTA kit, still comes complete with all materials and hardware necessary for full assembly and will only require that you have tools available such as a drill, some screwdrivers and a small socket set. 

All major parts of the DK-2 Bare Bones or RTA kit are pre-cut on a precision C-N-C computerized router machine using dimensional lumber, high grade cabinet quality plywood such as birch or maple (not cheap MDF or particle board!) The DK-2 RTA package is made of professional “furniture quality” materials and is made to high grade specifications.  Once assembled and cared for properly it will last for many generations!

To purchase the DK-2 BareBone kit see the PURCHASE-BUY page.


THE DK-2 Completed RTA Kit  $ 1,440.00 USD

The Complete Ready to Assemble (RTA) kit of the SimSamurai DK-2 Katana flight desk takes both the cutting and painting out of the equation as it will come to you completely ready to assemble.  The RTA kit will come complete with all materials and hardware necessary for assembly and only requires that you have basic tools available such as a drill, a screwdriver, and a small socket set.  The DK-2 RTA kit includes all wood, screws, bolts and brackets necessary for full project assembly.  Also included as an assembly manual which will allow you to build the flight simulator station within an hour! 

All major parts of the DK-2 RTA kit are pre-cut on a precision C-N-C computerized router machine using dimensional lumber and high grade cabinet quality hardwood birch or maple plywood (not any cheap MDF or particle board!) The DK-2 RTA package is made of professional “furniture quality” materials and is made to high grade specifications.  Once properly assembled it will last for many, many generations guaranteed!

Finally, as with all my products, I design with future upgradeability and expandability in mind.  You will be able to set up the DK-2 with one or two monitors for virtual instrumentation or you can install a pre-made instrument panel from any other “pro sim” retailers such as Sim Kits, VRInsight, or Flight illusion if desired. The desktop is wide enough to accommodate any realistic Cessna 172 sized panel (or even larger!)

The DK-2 Katana flight sim desk will come painted in the standard Sim Samurai “black galaxy” finish (silver charcoal) but don’t forget that the DK-2 is also offered as an unpainted bare bones kit if you want to paint it a custom color of your own.   Therefore, if you want to save money or wish to fully customize the DK-2 in your own livery colors we extend that choice to you!

With all cockpit purchases, we offer free building and assembly advice during 8am-6pm USA Pacific time or any time via email. Please know that we are always here to help if you need any added assistance!

To purchase the DK-2 RTA Kit see the PURCHASE-BUY page.


ACCESSORY OPTIONS

Aluminum Instrument Panel Option – ($ 420 or $ 540 USD)**

In addition to a cockpit you can also purchase a fully customized aluminum instrument panel overlay as shown or for an extra $100 we can custom design a panel to specifically fit your personal equipment needs. The instrument panel is 5mm (.125″) aircraft grade aluminum and is precision cut on a CNC water jet system.   For an additional $160 the top of the panel will come complete with a dash/glare-shield made of quality hard rubberized material which gives it a very realistic look and feel.  The aluminum panel is a great way to make your cockpit look even more professional! Standard shipping in USA is $50.

**As a bonus : For all BareBones or RTA kit customers we will reduce the cost of the panel and dash option by 10% off.


BAREBONES and RTA KIT SHIPPING COSTS

Average shipping cost in USA for the base model is $200 to $275 depending on your location. Average ship weight for the DK-2 is 180 lbs.  The DK-2 will come in one large box regardless of purchase of the BareBones kit or Completed RTA kit. Once in hand you will need a small socket set and screw driver to complete final assembly which typically takes one hour.

Whether you order a set of DIY plans, a BareBones Kit or a fully completed RTA kit, we always offer free builder advice for all flight simulator cockpit customers via email or phone (during 8am-6pm USA Pacific time).  Please know that we are available for help if you need further advice or added assistance!