Balance scale

Also known as baker’s scale and balance-beam scale. The balance scale uses an added weight counterbalancing system with two platforms, one on the left and one on the right, attached to a horizontal balance beam. Counterweights, sized at 1, 2, 4, and 8 pounds, are used to set the scale to the amount of weight you want to measure. An ounce bar on the front of the balance beam has a sliding weight that can be set between 1 and 16 ounces to add ounce increments. Balance scales are designed for use with a specific container (the scale bowl) to hold the ingredient to be weighed and a scale-bowl counterweight (a special weight that is the same weight as the bowl) to compensate for the weight of the bowl. If you use the scale bowl without the scale-bowl counterweight in addition to the counterweights that add up to your desired measurement, you will not get an accurate reading.