I have purchased the needles, but have yet to use them.
One thing you did not mention ... and maybe just missed saying it ... my understanding is that for these needles the general concept is that you work with one hand under and the other above as you poke the needle thru and grab it.
I am definitely not a hand quilter ... and am only learning, so this is something I want to give a try. With this double handed method, it would appear we need a stationary frame as we would not have a hand free to hold the quilt.
Look forward to hearing from those with experience ... and the tips adn tricks you are looking for too, DJRustic! Thanks for starting the discussion!