Soldering is always a challenge: you have to connect at least two parts, you have a soldering iron, you have solder, but you only have two hands, and if you don't have a workshop you don't want to get a burnt kitchen table. These helper hands (two alligator clips) with a magnifying glass position parts so you can focus on minimizing solder and heat and making assembly fun. The tool is delivered packed in a cardboard box; Soldering iron holder and sponge are loose. Assembly involves attaching a soldering iron holder and sponge (which swells when wet) to the heavy cast iron base, then adjusting the various joints to position the tool's alligator clips while the magnifying glass scans the work area. The vertical orientation ensures that the heavy base tool does not tip over. Most joints have handy wing nuts; For a few just knurled connections, pliers are welcome. When you're done, you'll have a robot-like tool waiting on a shelf to help you solder.