Disclaimer: With no table mechanic experience on my part, I can't speak to the efficacy of the method or the tool. It looks to be a good idea! I like to view this portion of the forum to learn more about tables and the work that goes into them, and I rarely (if ever) give advice or information that I'm not qualified to give.
I do have some tool making and machining experience, and I think the handle idea is a good one for obvious reasons. I'd be sure to put some kind of flexible joint (like a ball and socket) on the handle at the block end to ensure the block stays flat and has even pressure on it.