Convenient and durable. I prefer wood because metal is pretty cold in Sydney in winter. Hands down is the most comfortable grip I've ever tried because it's quite thick and those big ribs help keep it secure. My index finger hits the locking mechanism on the grip, which is a bit annoying, but the clearance is smaller than my previous pen, so I'll get used to it. The beveled front is probably the main reason I bought it. I wanted to package my camera with a monitor attached and the angle allows you to package your monitor at the bottom with a small monitor holder, all I needed was 10mm and I got it. The overall height is lower than other grips even though it is a large grip. I use Kondor Blue Cage and it fits with no problems. This cage maintains its overall height as it has incorporated the NATO system. The Theis combination reduces the overall height by approx. 15 mm.