How can i calabrate scales without using weights?

Question

I need to calabrate my scales but it didn't come with any weights. Isn't there something around the house i can use?

Answer 1

Hey, I was about to say that but it's 8 pounds (the way to remember it is that "a pint's a pound, the world around").

If you can handle the metric system 1 liter of water weighs 1kg.

And it really does matter what balance you're trying to calibrate. A bathroom scale will just never be all that good but if you can weigh yourself on a good balance (such as you might find in a gym) and then on your bathroom scale, you can get it close for that one weight.

Answer 2

A gallon of water weighs about 9 lbs and would be close enough for government work. A gallon of milk is even closer.