You might want to settle the matter for once an for all by using a balance-type gauge, even if it's not the last word in resolution. They're quite inexpensive.
A weighty conundrum
I have recently encountered a problem with setting my tonearm pressure. I have 2 digital scales to confirm proper function with. The first is a Saga mini digital scale that has a weight spread of 0.1g to 350g. It's a flat scale with a metallic plate surface. The second is an arm load meter (no brand name). It too has a metallic plate with a white circular area center and a black dot in the middle. This model has a range of 0.1g, but only up to 5.0g. Both are calibrated with a 5g weight. Both check dead on with the 5g weight. I'm weighing the tone arm pressure on a Denon DP-47F direct drive table with a 2M Black Ortofon cartridge. The down and dirty Saga scale reads 1.6-1.7g. However the arm load meter (with newly replaced batteries) now reads 3+g. When I set it to the recommended stylus pressure I have to move the counterbalance weight almost out to the end of the arm. When I do this, the smarter than me automatic turntable won't even start. I'm flummoxed. Any ideas out there would be much appreciated. Thanks in advance, AB