use the handle, it is easier to use as a weapon....... never was keen on using electronics in the field, cumbersome, ties up hands, make sit difficult to carry other items needed for inspection - flashlight, measuring tape, etc. - usually ended up setting it down somewhere and having to go back to get it because of needing to hands to measure something or other. I found a cell phone to be the best for use, it fits in a pocket, easily used, and i usually took pictures with the phone, e-mailed them to myself, then opened and saved photos when I got back tot he car/truck to be able to enter inspection notes on the IPAD........... I would recommend a decent phone that can handle your software instead of a bulky tablet.
Just my $0.02 worth