I found barcons much easier to use than downtube shifters. They allowing shifting with minimal movement in comparison to downtube shifters and allow you to shift with several fingers while still holding onto the lower bar. I am currently using vintage Suntour ratchet bar ends and Dura Ace bar ends(not on the same bike). Both work well in my opinion.
Give them a try, you can always go back to downtubes shifters if you do not like them.