I bought a large Rad ODA billiard some time back and it also had a similar stem, and I was worried about this issue, but it never bothered me. I think it likely depends on your own personal physical characteristics. Truth be told, this pipe is probably not a clencher for most people.On a serious note, I have jaw issues and like to clench. Do you find the steep taper on his stems difficult to deal with compared to other brands?