I use my thumbs,however i was informed that useing your thumbs will put to much stress on the gimble's and wear out the pots,
Well i was flying my extra 260 one day and it went straight up then straight down smak. total distruction engine and all.
I sent in my trans.and receiver in for a check up.It was the Elevator pot that failed, so form your own oppinion.From now on i send in my transmitter once a year and have the pots replaced, after all it's a lot cheaper then a plane and engine,etc.