no one is as finicky as you are...just kidding! I prefer the thumb bar, it allows me to thumb the spool easier if I screw up (which is a constant).

I use one thumb motion to release the spool and set up for thumbing the reel. I just got used to doing it that way.

I also used to use right hand reels and now have switched to left hand. It feels wierd at first but now I don't switch hands when drift fishing. Try the thumb bar....try it with a left handed reel (if you're right handed)...it is a better set up..