Yes, it is small, but larger than a modern one where there's a small one on top of a pistol grip. It's around the size of a forearm, rather than the size of or longer than an arm. However, this was specifically designed for the Guardian, who's strength and power is exponentially higher than 99% of other people. This way, the strong wood keeps it from breaking in battle and wear/tear, say, over hundreds of years. The twine used on it is also made for the same reason. That's why it's so heavy. Not even Talin's voulge can match it in weight.