Neck pinch is only for kittens and really only for cats to pick up kittens. It's best to pick up cats around the ribs with one hand and then support their hind legs with your other hand.
You should never pick up a grown cat by the neck scruff, it will hurt them and might seriously injure.
I have a big kitty, so I have to be careful with him too.
I put one arm under his armpits, and one arm under his... legpits... lol. You want to evenly support their weight and pick them up as gently as possible.