i use both....

i would like to use the car as a 'whole' whether if i need to go fast forward, sideways or even slow down. if i downshift and feather clutch a bit and brake (and downshift further if i must), the car halters to a stop quicker than just hitting the brakes on a long gear.. i recommend it to others as well but it takes a bit to get used to.

i don't think it's completely possible to reliably utilize the transmission solely to brake the vehicle to a complete stop... that's just asking for abuse.

'03 Infiniti G35 Coupe M6
GTR - R = g35 coupe