For years I've been using solid alluminum rod for making small yagis, j poles, slim jims, folded dipoles. I think I've found the ultimate in easy construction.
Coils of 5/16 or 3/8 alluminum tubing from Amazon. I printed a bender to make folded dipoles and slim Jim's. Printed brackets and clamps to hold the coax on the alluminum, and then coat the connection points with liquid rubber for weather proofing.
The tubing is cheap, easy to bend/straighten, light weight, and I can make several antennas with one 30' roll of it.