The length of the stick is easily and precisely adjustable. It has two important functions: 1) it is a robust and precisely extendable stick; 2) it is a manual autopilot; it performs the same function as the locking handwheel on wheel steering systems. Once locked in place it holds the rudder stick in the desired position, it can be easily adjusted by turning the handle and sliding it to the new desired position; then releasing the handle, "Friend" will lock in that position. To go back to steering with the traditional stick is easy and intuitive: just lift it from its housing to release it. Useful in navigation, to leave the tiller at any time, in port or at anchor to keep the tiller locked.