Abstract: An apparatus for measuring mechanical properties of a specimen is disclosed. The apparatus includes a base and a cradle. The cradle includes a cradle frame attached to the base via a mounting element, and first and second cradle arms each rotatably attached to the cradle frame. Each of the first and second cradle arms includes a specimen receiving portion that is configured to hold a specimen in place. The first cradle arm is rotatable about a first axis and the second cradle arm is rotatable about a second axis that is substantially parallel to the first axis. The apparatus further includes an actuator configured to provide a force F to a central portion of the specimen in a direction substantially orthogonal to the first and second axes and the base, and a load cell positioned between the cradle frame and the base. The load cell is configured to measure F.