I also use a set of needle nose pliers, a very good set from an electronics
store. Paying a bit more will get you away from those cheap ones that break. I also use brass rod from the train section, or the KS rack. One tip, cut one bent over end longer than the other and only drill one hole. Insert the long end in the hole and press on the short end where you want to drill the other hole. The rod end will make a indent right where you need to drill the hole. For multiple handles (T-34, JSU) I make a jig of thick plastic the length of the wanted handle and bend the wire at each end and true up with the pliers.

JD, good to see you back.
As for what kind of wire I use, I prefer copper wire I get from old motors and transformers and controllers heading to the scrap heap at work. Got it in many different gauges, and they are soft enough to work perferly straight by rolling under a steel rule on a sheet of glass or cutting mat, and soft enough to easily bend with out head aches or worry.

No fancy tools, or grab handler either just a simple set of needle nose with teeth, measure the size needed, measure the with of the teeth, and position accordingly, and simply bend to shape. Easily enough to remember 9 teeth in from the end, 12 teeth in from the end.

If the wire you are using is too stiff or hard to bend, just anneal it to make it softer.

I wish I stuck to the pliers before sinking the $65 in the "Grabber." The only benefit of it seems to be as a conversation piece that always begins. "whatever you do do not get this thing..."