I'd like to get some opinions on 'helping hands' type soldering aids. Most of the ones I've seen are in the $5-$10 range, and seem pretty cheap. Any recommendations?
I've been looking at: Third-Hand with Soldering Station :: Third-Hands & Soldering Stations :: For Jewelry Work :: GRS Tools or maybe I'll build one of these: Third Hand++: A multi-use helping hand for electronics and other delicate work.
I've been looking at: Third-Hand with Soldering Station :: Third-Hands & Soldering Stations :: For Jewelry Work :: GRS Tools or maybe I'll build one of these: Third Hand++: A multi-use helping hand for electronics and other delicate work.
Just in case anyone is interested, I went with the standard size GRS Third Hands, which I bought from a local Jeweler Supply Store for $50/piece (CND). A little pricey, but you know what they say 'right tool for the right job...buy the best tools you can'.
I'm quite happy with them. The movement is firm, but smooth. You can tweak the resistance at the ball joints if you like, and surprisingly it is made in the USA. There is absolutely no play in the arms, and the pincers are soooo much better than alligator clips.
I'm quite happy with them. The movement is firm, but smooth. You can tweak the resistance at the ball joints if you like, and surprisingly it is made in the USA. There is absolutely no play in the arms, and the pincers are soooo much better than alligator clips.
here are higher rez versions:
http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u186/bburl/tip.png
http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u186/bburl/std_grs_us.png
http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u186/bburl/tip.png
http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u186/bburl/std_grs_us.png
The cheap Radio Shack ones were very useful (don't know if they still sell the same ones I got). I put a coat of silicone sealant (RTV) on the base to stop it sliding along the bench.
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