How to do a Basic Wire Splice

I believe that's called a "Western Union" splice.

I use electronics solder that has a copper safe flux core.

Way easier.

My biggest issue is forgetting to put the heat shrink tubing on before soldering.

I also have one of those cheap harbor freight "third hand" stands, but I removed the metal alligator clips and replaced them with clothes pins I modified to fit in the set screw holders.
That way the metal doesn't eat into the wire insulation.