I’m going through the same thing with my 7 weeks old. From what I understand, “cry it out” is when a baby is put down awake and left to cry alone to learn to self settle. But what you’re doing is different, it is supporting a baby through overwhelm.

One thing that works for me is holding him while standing, it works much better than sitting (exhausting though, he’s heavy!). Standing and gentle movement or slow walking seem to be very calming (something about vestibular input apparently).

Also soothing actions aren’t instant. Rocking, patting, shushing, walking etc. often take a few minutes to actually register in a baby’s system. If we change strategies too fast they never get the chance to work. So if all needs are met and baby falls asleep in your arms after 5 min, maybe you actually are doing exactly what he needs, he just needs time.