Close but not quite, the real stick moves ever so slightly, where as the FSSB doesn't move at all. I do like it regardless, money well spent, definitely getting my money out of it flying the viper. I do like the fact that the FSSB R3 Lighting is stand-alone, you don't need to take apart your Warthog to use it, unless you want to use Target. So I have the TMWH stick base center mounted for Hawg and Hornet, and the FSSB is side mounted for the Viper.
I have the r3 lighting, prior to that I had the r2 for the cougar. I however can not fly other aircraft with it, need a movable stick for the Hornet and Hawg, etc.
If the amount is discouraging, then perhaps it isn't for you. However go check out the controllers section of the forums, there are many more users who have it, but may not frequent the Viper controller section.
I will say that is well built and RealSimulator team does stand behind their products.