You can have asymmetric deadzones. Just right click on axis X or Y in Saitek control panel and make sure "Link Deadzones" is unchecked. If one of the axis is completely off center put your stick in the level position, disconnect cable from the stick and then reconnect - works for me.
Also depends what force setting you are using (I am using slightly modify F3 which is almost the same as used on F-16) my advise would be to put your hand on the stick and then set up the deadzones because most of the time you will fly with your hand on the stick. Set up your deadzones big enough so when you press i.e. weapon release, plane won't pitch down cause you pushed the stick forward.