I use an old TTW ring on my VPI with the original acrylic-lead platter that is too small for the VPI ring.
My ring is about 2.5 pounds. I find that to be sufficient. Not only does it flatten records, but it bonds all records to the platter. Beyond that it adds weight to the platter beyond the platter itself adding to the flywheel effect and benefiting speed stability.
IMO it benefits the SQ of all recordings and I wouldn't be without one. It is also far easier for me to place on a disk than a screw in VPI center weight, as those need adjustment for particular records. I do use a "dead" center weight. It has all become quicker and more automatic for me than the screw in weight.
It is true these rings can ruin a stylus. Of course one can be very careful. My own response was to make the placement of the stylus at the beginning of a record so automatic and precise that I can do it blindfolded. I wrote that up here on another site. It's been many years and it has never failed.