Difference between MFT Clamping Elements versus Walko Clamps

[eddomak]

Hi,

Can anyone tell me what the difference is between the following 2 products?
1) MFT Clamping Elements Product #488030 (http://www.festool.com.au/epages/tooltechnic.sf/en_AU/?ObjectPath=/Shops/tooltechnic/Products/488030) $AUD155/pair

2) Walko Quick Clamp Set Product # WAA2400 (http://www.festool.com.au/epages/tooltechnic.sf/en_AU/?ObjectPath=/Shops/tooltechnic/Products/WAA2400) $AUD99/pair

Apart from the price, the only difference I can see from the pictures is that the MFT version has a slight curve to the back of the plastic pieces whereas the Walko version is angular (would this affect usage in any way?).

From the specs on the Walko replacement top product site it says the holes are 20mm, so in theory it should be the same?

 

[Vondawg]

Good question....wonder if the Walko's don't come with screw on knobs that sucure from underside of the table ?

 

[eddomak]

I have just asked my local dealer to get both sets in, and then I will do a comparison in-store. The good news for me is that the price quoted to me on the Walko set was significantly cheaper than even the price quoted above.  ;D

 

[thedude306]

Man, I wish those where available here!

 

[Michael1960]

I have a pair of both the Festool and Walko clamps.  Although they appear similar, I have found the Festool clamps 'lock in' and hold work pieces better.  One of my Walko clamps provides fair clamping performance, the other is inadequate. 
The Festool clamps also allow both sections of the clamps to be secured to the MFT / Walko style table tops.  My Walko clamps do not provide this option.  I am not sure if newer Walko clamps are the same design.  Perhaps they may also perform better.
Although I have been unimpressed with my Walko clamps I find the Walko table very useful.

 

[eddomak]

Thanks for that. I went into the store and had a look at the differences, and as you say:
1) Festool clamps have threaded holes in base of both the clamps and the dogs/stops
2) Festool clamp set comes with 4 festool knobs with threaded rods to secure things vertically
3) Festool clamps seemed to have a tighter action

However having said that, I walked away with the Walkos to save the money, and got them home to test them. They don't hold as tight as I would have thought. More like "extremely firm" (I still wasn't able to budge the workpiece) rather than "no way can I move that!". Still, it's totally sufficient for my use.

 

[Michael1960]

Since reading your reply and the decision to buy the Walko clamps I took a closer look at my clamps.  I found there is a small grub screw which allows the clamping pressure to be adjusted.  My Walko clamps now work properly.  As a test, I secured a piece of timber onto my MFT and had no trouble using a hand plane.  I am pleased to now be able to use these clamps. 
PS - I have eaten a small piece of humble pie!

 

[routermaniac]

I have both the Walko and the Festool.  I bought the Walko as a second set of clamps over the Festool to save a few $$$.  I think for most jobs the Walko are ok but the Festool are more stable as can be fixed to the underside of the table.  If I had my time again I would buy a second set of Festool.