Not sure whether to start with AnchorPod FORG3D Edition or a Verso/Max bundle? This guide explains the differences and helps you choose the right vacuum workholding starting point for your bench and workflow.
Quick decision guide
Choose AnchorPod FORG3D Edition if:
- You have a dedicated MFT bench or 20 mm dog-hole system
- Most work happens horizontally on the bench surface
- You want vacuum always ready without setup or teardown
- Your workflow values permanent infrastructure over portability
Choose Verso Bundle if:
- You work in multiple orientations (horizontal and vertical)
- You need flexibility for edge work, rail mounting, and bench staging
- You want a versatile starter kit that adapts to mixed tasks
- You work across multiple surfaces or locations
Choose Max Bundle if:
- You focus on horizontal bench work with larger panels
- You need synchronized multi-pod grip for wide stock
- You want maximum holding force for demanding operations
- You work primarily on flat bench surfaces
What they have in common
Both AnchorPod FORG3D Edition and Verso/Max bundles are complete systems that arrive ready to work:
- Complete kits with pods, accessories, fittings, and tubing included
- Packaged in Systainer³ S 76 with precision fitouts
- Compatible with the same vacuum sources (pumps, Grabo via Nexus)
- Expandable with the same accessories (AnchorDogs, rail inserts, additional pods)
- Part of the same SYS-GRP modular ecosystem
You're not choosing between incompatible systems — you're choosing your starting point in a unified ecosystem.
AnchorPod FORG3D Edition: Permanent bench infrastructure
What's included
Magnus Kit:
- 1× AnchorPod 20mm
- 1× Magnus Edition pods (broad coverage)
- Argos bench driver
- Gaskets, spacers, tubing, and hardware
- FORG3D Edition Systainer³ S 76 with fitout
Maximus Kit:
- 2× AnchorPod 20mm
- 2× Maximus Edition pods (balanced hold)
- Argos bench driver
- Gaskets, spacers, tubing, and hardware
- FORG3D Edition Systainer³ S 76 with fitout
How it works
AnchorPod (included in FORG3D Edition kits) installs into 20 mm dog holes in your bench. The base stays installed permanently — no teardown between projects. Connect vacuum once, and it's always ready.
Three modes of operation:
- Gasket seal — Direct vacuum hold on the workpiece
- Pod operation — Swap Magnus or Maximus pods for different coverage areas
- Mechanical anchor — Remove the M6 bolt to use as a mechanical stop like an AnchorDog
Argos bench driver docks in any 20 mm dog hole for magnetic hardware retrieval and fastener driving across all SYS-GRP components.
Best for
- Dedicated workshop benches with 20 mm dog-hole systems
- Horizontal panel work (sanding, routing, edge banding, assembly)
- Workflows where vacuum needs to be always ready
- Users who want to turn their bench into permanent workholding infrastructure
Limitations
- Requires bench with 20 mm or dog-hole system
- Optimized for horizontal work (vertical mounting possible but not primary use case)
- Less portable than Verso/Max (designed to stay installed)
Verso Bundle: Versatile rail and bench staging
What's included
- 3× BenchGrip Minimus Single pods
- 1× BenchGrip Minimus Dual pod (daisy-chain capability)
- 1× BenchGrip Maximus pod
- AnchorDogs and rail inserts
- Systainer³ S 76 with Pod Dock fitout
How it works
Verso pods mount to aluminum extrusion rails (MFT, Dashboard PWS, Bench Dogs, 15/30/40/45-series) in both horizontal and vertical orientations. Each pod connects via standard push-to-connect vacuum fittings.
The mix of pod sizes gives you flexibility:
- Minimus pods for tight spaces and distributed hold
- Minimus Dual for daisy-chaining multiple pods without separate hoses
- Maximus pod for broader contact and stronger grip
Best for
- Mixed orientation work (horizontal bench + vertical edge operations)
- Portable setups and jobsite work
- Workflows that alternate between table work and rail-side clamping
- Users who need flexibility over permanent infrastructure
Limitations
- Requires extrusion rail system for mounting
- Setup and teardown required when reconfiguring
- Not designed for permanent installation
Max Bundle: Maximum horizontal grip
What's included
- 2× BenchGrip Maximus pods
- 2× BenchGrip Minimus Dual pods (daisy-chain capability)
- AnchorDogs and rail inserts
- Systainer³ S 76 with Pod Dock fitout
How it works
Max focuses on synchronized horizontal grip with larger pods. Mount to extrusion rails or position directly on bench surfaces. The Maximus pods provide broader contact area for panels and assemblies, while Minimus Dual pods extend coverage without additional vacuum lines.
Best for
- Large panels and cabinet components
- Synchronized multi-pod clamping on wide stock
- Horizontal bench work requiring serious holding force
- Users who prioritize grip strength over spot flexibility
Limitations
- Requires extrusion rail system for mounting
- Less versatile than Verso for orientation changes
- Optimized for horizontal work
They work together
AnchorPod and Verso/Max aren't competing choices — they're complementary:
- Use AnchorPod on your primary bench for horizontal work
- Add Verso pods on rails for vertical edge operations
- Combine Max for large panel arrays with AnchorPod for always-ready anchorage
- All systems share accessories: AnchorDogs, tubing, fittings, rail inserts
Start with whichever matches your dominant workflow, then expand as needed. The Systainer³ packaging keeps everything organized whether you have one kit or three.
Compatibility
Bench systems:
- AnchorPod: 20 mm dog-hole systems, MFT
- Verso/Max: MFT, Dashboard PWS, Bench Dogs, 15/30/40/45-series aluminum extrusion
Vacuum sources (all systems):
- Vacuum pumps
- Grabo Pro-Lifter 20 or DeWalt Grabo via Nexus Baseplate
- Hub for centralized vacuum control and routing
Materials (all systems):
- Wood (solid, plywood, composites)
- Metal (aluminum, steel with flat surfaces)
- Any flat, non-porous material that seals against EPDM gaskets
Frequently asked questions
Can I use AnchorPod and Verso/Max together?
Yes. They're designed to complement each other. Run AnchorPod on your bench for horizontal work, and use Verso or Max for rail staging and portable setups.
Which system is easier to set up?
AnchorPod requires one-time installation but is then always ready. Verso/Max require mounting to rails for each setup but offer more staging flexibility.
Can I expand either system later?
Yes. Both systems expand with the same accessories and additional pods. Start with one kit and add components as your workflow grows.
Do I need different vacuum sources for each system?
No. All SYS-GRP systems work with the same vacuum sources: pumps or Grabo via Nexus.
Can Verso/Max pods work on bench surfaces without rails?
Verso/Max pods are designed to mount to extrusion rails. For direct bench mounting, AnchorPod is the better choice.
Next steps
- Vacuum sources: See SYS-GRP Vacuum Source Options for pump sizing and compatibility
- AnchorPod setup: See SYS-GRP AnchorPod — Getting Started & Compatibility for installation guidance
- BenchGrip setup: See SYS-GRP BenchGrip — Installation & Setup Guide for Verso/Max mounting instructions
- System overview: See SYS-GRP Frequently Asked Questions for general setup questions
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