ESP8266 Community Forum

Use a open or closed frame 24, 28, 32 or 40 round pin IC socket, use a small hacksaw to cut the socket to 8 pin length. Position the ESP-03 to ensure every ESP-03 connection is close to a IC socket pin for soldering.

mine is just 7 pin length. and placed foamy DS tape between the socket and esp module so esp module sits flat on the socket when soldering.