Custom soldering helping hands

[iointerrupt]

The arms are standard LocLine. Probably two LocLine #40413 "1/4″ Hose Assembly Kit". Little pricey, you can find knockoffs that are cheaper but not really as good.

The alligator clips were just what I had, there's a bolt run into the back of them, and then covered in heat shrink. Very secure even though it wouldn't seem like it.

See here: https://www.sparkfun.com/products/11784

[kendall]

I think those awful alligator clip third hands are universally despised....the problem is so prevalent (work holding) that we all felt their purchase irresistible at some point.

Make up a set, or several sets of various sized clamps similar to those used on fly tying vises, then mount to indicator stands, those and a chunk of steel should work for most jobs.
I have two of those in the first pic, bought one, tried it once and never touched it again, second was a gift from someone who knew I was into electronics.