I have done a lot of research and read many reviews regarding marble, porcelain, granite, stainless steel, and glass mortar and pestles. I have to say this was the best one. My purpose for a mortar and pestle was for crushing and finely grinding large and hard supplements. This does the job. I put my left hand over the top partially so nothing jumps out and it works fine. First I tap the tablets straight on to crack the supplements and then grind them down and it works. The wooden base does help to stop it from moving and provides stability. The pestle is light and works well. I do have a singular marble pestle that grinds it even more fine but this is sufficient. I tap the sides and it all comes out easily! No sticking. There may be some staining to the mortar but after cleaning it whatever is left is a permanent stain that won't affect future uses as long as it's been washed thoroughly by hand.What I read from many types of mortar and pestle reviews and research:-With marble you have to "prep" the marble so your not grinding the marble and eating it with your food or pills. It takes forever and doesn't always work. I tried this and wish I never bought a marble one. Marble can also grip onto the contents and you can't remove it all- big waste if you have pills.-With stainless steel - I read it rusts anyway and turns the contents grey-glass- not strong enough-granite- although the strongest, can hold onto the pill powder-big waste of medicine or supplement-Porcelain - the best option but can be tricky- have to get a THICK porcelain and wide mouth (not narrow or too small of a mortar and pestle) so it doesn't crack or break. And this does the trick. I've used this one once and if anything changes I'll write back in.Also like the wooden base that acts as a cover!Great price and great quality so far.Easy to clean with soap and water in sink - DO NOT put any mortar and pestlesin the d/w - bad idea- wouldn't take that risk.p.s. this would also be great for foods like garlic and guacomole-may need a little large for a large amount of dip but otherwise take in stages. perfect for pills, supplements, and herbs!Enjoy! Hope this helps!