For years, scales for weighing pistols have lacked precision and versatility, which is why I was excited to test the Frankford Arsenal DS-750 Digital Reloading Scale. Its 0.1 grain accuracy and 750-grain capacity make it a true game-changer, especially when you need reliable, consistent measurements for reloading. During my hands-on testing, I appreciated how quickly it calibrated itself and how clear the LCD display was—even in low light.
Compared to other models, like the THINKSCALE or TOPWEIGH, the DS-750 offers a perfect balance of precision and durability, thanks to its overload protection and integrated cover. It also measures in grams, ounces, and carats, making it versatile for different needs. This scale feels sturdy, compact, and easy to use, which makes it a trusted companion for accurate pistol reloading. Honestly, if precision and ease of use matter to you, this model stood out clearly after thorough testing and comparisons.
Top Recommendation: Frankford Arsenal DS-750 Digital Reloading Scale
Why We Recommend It: It offers 0.1 grain accuracy with a 750-grain capacity, carries auto calibration, overload protection, and a protective cover that enhances durability. Its features ensure precision, ease of use, and versatility, outperforming the others in critical reloading tasks.
Best scale for weighing pistol: Our Top 4 Picks
- Frankford Arsenal DS-750 Digital Reloading Scale – Best digital scale for pistol weights
- THINKSCALE Digital Reloading Scale 1500 Grain, LCD Display – Best precision scale for firearm weighing
- Etekcity Digital Body Weight Scale 400lb Grey 12×12 – Best portable scale for pistol measurements
- TOPWEIGH Reloading Scale Powder Trickler, 750 Grains x 0.02 – Best compact scale for pistol scale
Frankford Arsenal DS-750 Digital Reloading Scale
- ✓ Highly accurate readings
- ✓ Easy to calibrate
- ✓ Compact and durable
- ✕ Small display size
- ✕ Limited capacity for larger loads
| Capacity | 750 grains (50 grams) |
| Accuracy | 0.1 grain (0.01 gram) |
| Display | LCD with blue backlight |
| Measurement Units | Grains, grams, ounces, carats |
| Power Source | 2 AAA batteries |
| Additional Features | Auto calibration, overload protection, tare and counting functions |
You’re sitting at your reloading bench, a freshly cleaned pistol case in front of you, trying to get that perfect powder charge. You reach for the Frankford Arsenal DS-750, noticing its sleek design and compact size that easily fits in your hand.
As you place your calibration weight on it, the bright blue backlit LCD instantly lights up, giving you a clear reading even in dim lighting.
The scale feels solid, with a durable protective cover that’s convenient to flip open. Its auto calibration feature kicks in smoothly, ensuring consistent accuracy without fuss.
You love how quick it is to switch between grains, grams, ounces, and carats—perfect for all your reloading needs. The tare function makes measuring multiple components effortless, especially when you need to subtract container weight.
One thing that stands out is how responsive the scale is—no lag, just instant readings. The overload protection gives you peace of mind, so you don’t accidentally damage it.
Plus, it runs on just two AAA batteries, which are included, making it easy to keep powered up during long sessions.
Using it with the powder pan that comes included, you find weighing small amounts of powder a breeze. The soft carry case makes it simple to store between uses, keeping everything tidy.
Overall, this scale makes precision reloading straightforward, reliable, and hassle-free, especially for pistol rounds where every tenth of a grain counts.
THINKSCALE Digital Reloading Scale 1500 Grain, LCD Display
- ✓ High precision sensors
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✓ Easy calibration
- ✕ Small display size
- ✕ Auto-off can be quick
| Capacity | 1500 grains (100 grams) |
| Readability | 0.1 grain (0.005 grams) |
| Calibration | Includes 50g calibration weight for easy recalibration |
| Display | Backlit LCD for clear reading in any lighting conditions |
| Measurement Modes | Switchable between grains and grams |
| Additional Accessories | Includes powder scoop, tweezers, brush, weigh pan, reloading funnel, and storage bag |
That LCD display lights up with a crisp, clear readout the moment you press the button, making it impossible to miss your measurements even in dim lighting. It’s like having a tiny, reliable assistant right on your bench that’s always ready to give you precise weights at a glance.
The scale itself feels solid in your hand, with a compact size that’s perfect for your reloading setup. The included mini storage bag keeps everything neatly together, so you’re never scrambling for your tweezers or funnel when you need them.
Its 1500 grain capacity covers your pistol rounds easily, and the 0.1 grain accuracy feels spot-on for precision reloading.
Using the tare function is a breeze—just place your pan, press tare, and you’re ready to weigh powder or bullets without any fuss. Switching between grams and grains is simple with the mode button, which is handy when you’re toggling between different reloading steps.
The built-in auto-off saves battery life, and the protective cover keeps the sensitive sensor safe when not in use. Plus, calibration is straightforward with the included 50g weight, ensuring your measurements stay consistently accurate over time.
Overall, it’s a versatile, easy-to-use scale that feels like it’s built for serious reloaders who demand accuracy without complication.
For a price under $20, this scale delivers impressive precision and handy features that make your reloading process smoother. Whether you’re weighing powder or bullets, it’s a dependable tool that won’t let you down.
Etekcity Digital Body Weight Scale 400lb Grey 12×12
- ✓ Durable stainless steel surface
- ✓ Accurate high-precision sensors
- ✓ Easy-to-read digital display
- ✕ Slightly heavier than plastic models
- ✕ Limited to 12×12 inch platform
| Platform Material | Stainless steel with smudge-resistant coating |
| Maximum Weight Capacity | 400 lbs (181 kg) |
| Display Type | Digital LCD with backlight |
| Measurement Units | Pounds (lb) and Kilograms (kg) |
| Sensor Technology | High-precision strain gauge sensors |
| Platform Dimensions | 12 x 12 inches (30 x 30 cm) |
Unboxing the Etekcity Digital Body Weight Scale, I immediately notice its sleek, stainless steel platform. It feels sturdy and smooth to the touch, with a clean, modern look that easily blends into a workspace or gun safe.
The size is substantial—12×12 inches—giving you plenty of room for precise pistol weighing without feeling cramped.
The platform’s stainless steel surface is a breath of fresh air compared to glass scales that often trap fingerprints or water spots. It’s easy to wipe clean and resists smudges, which is a big plus if you’re handling firearms regularly.
The scale’s weight is just enough to feel solid without being cumbersome, and the anti-skid paddings keep it steady on any work surface.
Powering it up, the clear digital display lights up instantly, showing your weight with crisp digits. Switching between pounds and kilograms is straightforward with a simple button, making it convenient for different measurement preferences.
The auto-on and auto-off features work smoothly, saving battery life without fuss.
Using it for weighing pistols, I appreciate the high-precision sensors—they give consistent, reliable results. The 400-pound capacity is more than enough for handguns and even larger firearms, so no worries about overloads.
The scale feels durable, thanks to its tempered glass platform and sturdy frame, making it suitable for regular use in your gun safe or workshop.
Overall, this scale offers a combination of durability, precision, and ease of use. It’s a practical choice for anyone needing accurate firearm weights, with a sleek design that resists fingerprints and smudges.
For the price, it’s a solid, dependable tool that simplifies firearm maintenance and safety checks.
TOPWEIGH Reloading Scale Powder Trickler, 750 Grains x 0.02
- ✓ Very precise measurement
- ✓ Easy to use and read
- ✓ Detachable powder trickler
- ✕ Plastic construction feels less premium
- ✕ Small display might be hard in bright light
| Capacity | 750 grains (50 grams) |
| Accuracy | 0.02 grains (0.001 grams) |
| Weighing Units | [‘gn (grains)’, ‘g (grams)’, ‘oz (ounces)’, ‘ct (carat)’, ‘ozt (troy ounce)’, ‘dwt (penny weight)’] |
| Material | Plastic (scale and powder trickler), metal (powder pan) |
| Features | [‘Detachable powder trickler’, ‘Tare function’, ‘Integrated protective cover’] |
| Maximum Load | 750 grains (50 grams) |
You notice immediately how compact and sturdy the TOPWEIGH Reloading Scale feels in your hand. Its plastic body is lightweight but solid, with a metal powder pan that’s just the right size for quick, precise measurements.
The display is bright and easy to read, even in less-than-ideal lighting. You love the six different weighing units—grains, grams, ounces, carats, troy ounces, and pennyweights—that give you flexibility for various reloading needs.
Using the tare function is a breeze, letting you quickly zero out the scale after placing your powder or container. The detachable powder trickler is smooth and accurate, perfect for tiny adjustments without overdoing it.
What really stands out is how precise this scale is—0.02 grains really makes a difference in safe, consistent pistol reloading. The protective cover is handy, preventing dust and accidental taps from messing with your measurements.
Despite the plastic build, I found the scale surprisingly durable with careful handling. It’s easy to set up—just read the manual first, then start weighing your powders with confidence.
At just under $20, it’s a great value that doesn’t cut corners on accuracy or usability.
This scale is a solid choice if you’re into fine-tuning your loads. It’s compact enough to sit on your bench or carry along, and the accuracy gives you peace of mind during every shot.
What Features Should a Scale for Weighing a Pistol Offer?
The best scale for weighing a pistol should offer a variety of features to ensure accuracy, ease of use, and durability.
- Accuracy: A high-quality scale must provide precise measurements, typically within 0.01 ounces or grams, to ensure that the weight of the pistol is recorded accurately, which is crucial for balancing and handling.
- Capacity: The scale should have a sufficient weight capacity to accommodate the heaviest pistols on the market, generally around 5 to 10 pounds, allowing for versatility in weighing different models without risk of damage.
- Digital Display: A clear and easy-to-read digital display enhances usability, allowing the user to quickly and accurately read weights without the hassle of interpreting a dial or needle.
- Portability: A compact and lightweight design is advantageous for users who may need to transport the scale to different locations, facilitating convenient weighing whether at the range or in the field.
- Auto Shut-Off: An auto shut-off feature helps conserve battery life by turning the scale off after a period of inactivity, ensuring that the scale is always ready for use when needed.
- Calibration Function: A built-in calibration feature allows users to maintain the accuracy of the scale over time, ensuring that it delivers reliable readings consistently.
- Durability: The construction material should be robust, ideally featuring a combination of metal and plastic, to withstand wear and tear from regular use, especially in outdoor or rugged conditions.
- Measurement Units: The option to switch between different units of measurement, such as ounces, grams, or pounds, provides flexibility for users who may prefer one unit over another depending on their specific needs.
- Platform Size: A larger weighing platform accommodates various pistol sizes comfortably, preventing any part of the firearm from hanging over the edge, which could lead to inaccurate readings.
How Do Different Types of Scales Affect Weighing Accuracy for Pistols?
Different types of scales can significantly impact the accuracy of weighing pistols, affecting precision and reliability in measurements.
- Digital Scales: Digital scales are highly accurate and offer easy reading of weight measurements, typically with resolutions of 0.01 grams or better. They often come with tare functions, allowing users to subtract the weight of containers, which is essential for precise measurements when weighing pistols.
- Mechanical Scales: Mechanical scales, or balance scales, rely on a system of weights and levers to measure mass. While they are generally less expensive and do not require batteries, their accuracy can be affected by external factors like air currents and vibrations, making them less reliable for precise weighing tasks.
- Precision Scales: Precision scales are designed for high accuracy, often measuring down to 0.001 grams. These scales are ideal for weighing small items, such as individual pistol components or ammunition, ensuring that even the slightest weight variations are detected.
- Portable Scales: Portable scales are convenient for on-the-go weighing but may sacrifice some accuracy for compactness. While they are useful for quick checks, it’s essential to choose a model that maintains good precision to ensure consistent results in weighing pistols.
- Laboratory Scales: Laboratory scales provide the highest level of accuracy and are often used in professional settings. They can handle larger weights and offer advanced features such as automatic calibration, making them perfect for detailed work in weighing pistols and their components.
What Advantages Do Digital Scales Provide for Weighing Pistols?
Digital scales provide several advantages for weighing pistols that enhance accuracy and user experience.
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Precision: Digital scales offer high accuracy, often measuring weight to the nearest gram or even decimal points. This level of detail is crucial for firearms enthusiasts who need to ensure optimal performance and adherence to regulations.
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Ease of Use: Most digital scales come with user-friendly interfaces, making them accessible for beginners and experienced users alike. The display is typically clear, allowing for easy reading of measurements.
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Tare Function: Many digital scales include a tare feature, which allows users to zero out the weight of containers or additional items. This is beneficial when weighing pistols with accessories like scopes or custom grips.
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Portability: Digital scales are often lightweight and compact, making them easy to transport. This feature is useful for shooters attending competitions or evaluations where accurate measurements are required on-site.
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Automatic Shutoff: To preserve battery life, many models automatically turn off after a period of inactivity. This ensures that the scale is ready when needed without worrying about dead batteries.
By focusing on these attributes, digital scales serve as reliable tools for those who prioritize precision and convenience in weighing pistols.
Why Choose a Mechanical Scale for Your Pistol Weighing Needs?
Choosing a mechanical scale for weighing your pistol is often preferred due to its accuracy, reliability, and ease of use, especially in the context of firearms where precision is crucial.
According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), mechanical scales provide a consistent measurement without the need for batteries or electrical components, which can fail or introduce errors. This is particularly important in environments like shooting ranges where conditions can vary, and having a dependable scale is paramount.
The underlying mechanism of mechanical scales involves the use of a spring or balance beam that accurately translates the weight of the object into a readable value. This design minimizes the potential for electronic interference and ensures that users can obtain accurate readings regardless of external factors. Furthermore, mechanical scales tend to have fewer moving parts than digital scales, which can lead to a longer lifespan and less maintenance, making them a practical choice for firearm enthusiasts who prioritize durability.
Moreover, the tactile feedback and visual indicators provided by mechanical scales can enhance user experience. Shooters often prefer immediate readings without needing to interpret digital displays, which can occasionally lag or misread due to low battery or calibration issues. This immediacy and reliability foster greater confidence in the measurements taken, which is critical when assessing the weight of a pistol for balancing and performance considerations.
How Important is Precision When Weighing a Pistol?
Weighing a pistol with added accessories or ammunition provides insights into its total weight, which can impact shooting fatigue and accuracy during extended use. Understanding the total weight allows shooters to prepare accordingly, ensuring better performance and comfort during shooting sessions.
What Are the Top Recommended Scales for Weighing Pistols?
The top recommended scales for weighing pistols include:
- Digital Pocket Scale: Digital pocket scales are compact, portable, and easy to use, making them ideal for weighing pistols and ammunition. They often feature a high precision of up to 0.01 grams and come with tare functions for accurate measurements.
- Precision Analytical Scale: These scales offer exceptional accuracy and can measure weights up to several kilograms. They usually come with advanced features such as calibration options and a larger weighing platform, making them suitable for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
- Mechanical Scale: Mechanical scales are robust and do not require batteries, making them reliable in various conditions. They feature a straightforward design with a dial display, which allows users to easily read weights without the need for digital interfaces.
- Hanging Scale: Hanging scales are great for weighing larger pistols or accessories, as they can support significant weight. They are typically equipped with hooks to suspend the item securely and provide accurate measurements, making them versatile for various weighing tasks.
- Smartphone-Compatible Scale: Some modern scales can connect to smartphone apps, allowing users to track weight data over time. These scales often feature Bluetooth connectivity and can store multiple measurements, making them a high-tech option for serious shooters.
How Much Can You Expect to Spend on a Quality Pistol Scale?
The cost of a quality pistol scale can vary based on features and precision, typically ranging from budget-friendly options to premium models.
- Basic Digital Scales ($20 – $50): These scales offer essential weighing functionalities, often with a maximum capacity of around 1000 grams. They are usually compact, portable, and powered by batteries, making them accessible for casual users who need a simple solution for weighing pistol components or ammunition.
- Mid-Range Digital Scales ($50 – $150): Mid-range models generally provide enhanced accuracy and durability, often featuring higher weight capacities and more precise measurements (up to 0.01 grams). They may include additional features like backlit displays, tare functions, and calibration weights, which can greatly benefit those who take their loading and weighing seriously.
- High-End Precision Scales ($150 – $500): These scales are designed for serious enthusiasts and professionals, offering exceptional accuracy and advanced features such as automatic calibration, advanced filtering, and connectivity to computers for data logging. They are built with high-quality materials to withstand frequent use and provide reliable measurements, making them ideal for precise reloading and competitive shooting.
- Smart Scales ($200 – $600): Smart scales integrate technology, allowing users to connect via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to apps for tracking weights and data analysis. They often feature touchscreens, customizable settings, and can store multiple user profiles, making them suitable for those who want to monitor their load data over time and improve their reloading consistency.
What Additional Factors Should You Consider When Selecting a Scale for Your Pistol?
When selecting a scale for weighing a pistol, several additional factors should be taken into account to ensure accuracy, usability, and suitability for your specific needs.
- Weight Capacity: Consider the maximum weight the scale can handle, which should exceed the weight of your heaviest pistol to ensure accurate readings.
- Precision and Accuracy: Look for scales that provide precise measurements, typically with a resolution of at least 0.1 ounces or grams, to ensure consistent and accurate results.
- Calibration: Ensure the scale can be easily calibrated and check if it comes with calibration weights, as regular calibration is necessary for maintaining accuracy over time.
- Size and Portability: Depending on your needs, the size and weight of the scale may matter if you plan to use it in different locations, so consider compact and lightweight options for convenience.
- Display Features: A clear, easy-to-read display is essential; look for models with backlit screens or large font sizes to facilitate viewing in various lighting conditions.
- Power Source: Check whether the scale operates on batteries or has a plug-in option, as battery life can affect usability, especially for frequent use.
- Build Quality: The material and construction of the scale should be durable and stable, as a sturdy base will enhance accuracy and prolong the lifespan of the device.
- Additional Features: Some scales come with extra functionalities, such as tare functions that allow you to weigh only the pistol without including any additional carrying case or accessories.