Festool 577294 Suction Handle GECKO DOSH-Set for Guide Rail System

I use Festool track for precise woodworking. Whether using the track saw or router, working with large hardwood panels can be difficult vis a vis clamps. You need to hold down the track, at least I do, to prevent track movement. Using standard clamps. Despite a full assortment of trigger clamps, I have spent an inordinate amount of time clamping. The new Gecko suction clamps looked great, but the information on the internet emphasizes that they only work on non-pervious surfaces, like melamine. They do not work on plywood. Since I rarely work with plywoods (even Baltic birch) or melamine, I decided to give it a shot. My experimental results: (1). the Gecko works fine on melamine, metal surfaces like table saw tops--no surprise; (2) it worked fine on the melamine top of the SawStop extension table, albeit the surface is a bit irregular. Good news; (3) the Gecko does not hold to smooth solid cherry. Disappointing but not unanticipated. Don't know yet about other finished hardwoods. Hope that this is useful since I searched and couldn't find this information. Yes, expensive like all Festool products. If possible, I avoid Festool except in special circumstances but fully recognize that their tools are the gold standard.

This can also be used to carry sheets of Melamine, which turns carrying a full sheet into a one-person job.

Its a bit longer (about 13 inches end-to-end) than I expected - which is good and it holds my 55 inch track well on slick melamine without need for other clamping. Since I often cut melamine sheets on foam board backer - this is more convenient that trying to use a hold-down clamp. I haven't tried it yet with my longer (106 inch) track - but I may buy another one if I find its needed. Bought it via Amazon - Hartville Tool before the price went up - but like many other Festool items it was a bit pricey - but well made.

Thought it would work with unfinished plywood - nope. Only works with highly polished, smooth surfaces. Even sanded plywood is a no-go. Wanted to love it, can’t fault it entirely since it is a suction cup after all, with all its pickiness. So 3 stars.

I have purchase several Festool tools and accessories and most have been home runs.If you cut and carry a lot of melamine, this is a nice accessory. But.....I can't get the suction to hold on any other material. So just be aware that the use of this is limited.

Ok for initial set of track or to keep on work surface but does not have enough holding power for cutting. When clamped on plywood you can easily press on the side and it will lose auction.