i have a vacuum pump that i use for ac systems. it works good for a lot of applications, including testing brake boosters.
i have a ball valve on the hose, so when vacuum is applied according to the gauge, i close it.
if it holds, it's good. if not, it's repair time.
i also have a mity-vac and another hand operated vacuum pump. those DO make you get Popeye arms pumping a booster, even the small ones.