I think that's why I decided against one. I like smaller pipes, because I want to forget they're there. Some of those just look like a chore to clench. I think I'm just getting lazy as I get older.That's funny. I find it a little too chunky. I actually just sold another horn-stemmed Ropp because I just prefer a flat Vulcanite bit, but this Stout Pot is so well broken in at this point I couldn't part with it. By small/skinny I assume you mean narrow, which is true. The taper on the stem is a little too steep for my liking. The button is flat and doesn't bother me. Bottom line, I don't find it to be a great clencher. YMMV as always.